Is now the best time for intermittent fasting?

Nutritionists talk about the health benefits of the popular 16:8 fasting, chalk out a basic eating schedule but also suggest to not push one’s body to follow a particular diet plan

Prior to the lockdown, we may have all, at some point in time, skipped breakfast because we were in a hurry, indulged in samosas during a celebration at work or even gone out for drinks after long meetings. But is now a good time to take up intermittent fasting to monitor our eating habits given that we are confined to our homes and have ample time at hand to prepare healthy meals?

Intermittent fasting helps in balancing hormone levels, bringing insulin levels down and gives an instant boost to metabolism(Photo: iStock. For representational purpose only.)

Let’s first understand what intermittent fasting is all about. It is an eating pattern, also known as the 16:8 plan or 16:8 diet, wherein one needs to fast for 16 hours and eat within an eight-hour window, split between two or three meals. The idea is to focus on when you should be eating instead of what you eat.

Nutritionist Kavita Devgan feels now is a good time to opt for intermittent fasting. “We don’t really have the stress of commuting, and we can manage time at home. But it’s important to figure out the eating window, which can range from eight to 10 or 12 hours,” she adds.

So, what are the benefits of intermittent fasting? “It helps in balancing hormone levels, bringing insulin levels down. It also gives an instant boost to metabolism and aids weight loss,” says nutritionist Tripti Tandon.

For those looking to begin, Tandon chalks out a basic plan: “Wake up at 6am. Have a cup of green tea at 7am, followed by another cup of green tea at 9am. At 12pm, have your first meal and exercise at 4pm. At 6pm, have the next meal. Snacks can be eaten at 8pm, and you should be going to bed by 10pm. If you feel hungry at night, have water.” She also stresses on eating in moderation and reducing salt intake after 6 or 8pm.

However, Devgan feels it’s better to listen your body and see if a particular plan works for you. “Some people can’t keep a gap between meals and 12 to 14 hours might become too much. It may result in low sugar and blood pressure. Some people might even get acidity. Don’t push yourself,” she says.

Echoing Devgan’s thought, Tandon adds, “Rather than going for intermittent fasting for a short period of time from one to three months, I would suggest that you have fruit and milk twice a week for dinner. Go for a salt-free dinner to detoxify your body.”

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