The fame and popularity of Intermittent Fasting continues to grow and it has many health benefits when properly applied.
It remains a hotly debated topic, which is why we have compiled the 6 most frequently asked questions for you in this article.
1. Should you take occasional breaks with IF?
You don't have to, but you certainly can! It is important to listen to the needs of your body. Intermittent Fasting is not a diet, but a lifestyle that you can apply flexibly.
So do you want to have breakfast? Then by all means do!
2. Is Intermittent Fasting suitable for everyone?
No! Intermittent Fasting, if applied correctly, can have tremendous health benefits. But this does not mean that it is healthy for everyone to start it.
If you have a lot of stress, are pregnant, have thyroid problems, have a hormonal imbalance, have an eating disorder or are chronically ill, we always recommend that you have one of our therapists look in on you via a consultation.
3. Can I take supplements while fasting?
Most supplements are best absorbed during a meal, so you can take them at the first meal. Magnesium is best taken separately from a meal and probably does not interrupt it.
Fish collagen is also best absorbed separately from a meal but does interrupt fasting. So take it preferably 30 minutes before the first meal.
4. Can I drink only herbal tea, or also black tea while fasting?
During the time you are fasting you may drink water, tea and coffee. This may include black tea in addition to herbal tea! If you drink coffee, be sure to drink only black coffee during periods of fasting.
5. What are the different forms of Intermittent Fasting?
- 14/10, 16/8 and 18/6: Three methods in which you eat within a certain time frame in the day and do not eat in the remaining time. You can also build this up.
- 5/2: You do IF five days and the other two days, say on weekends, you don't.
- Stop-fast-stop: 2 days no fasting, 1 day yes
- Alternate: 1 day fasting, 1 day yes, 1 day no etc.
6. How do I start Intermittent Fasting?
The most popular method of Intermittent Fasting is 16/8. You then eat during an 8-hour period and fast during the remaining 16 hours. This is not to say, however, that this is the only method.
Want to get started with Intermittent Fasting? Our therapists would love to check it out with you!
