Intermittent fasting is a diet regimen that requires you to eat during certain hours of the day while fasting during the others. While it has been claimed to be a weight-loss method, there are many downfalls to intermittent fasting that you should know. For many, this fasting may be unsustainable and affect their day-to-day life.
So, let’s go over the downfalls of intermittent fasting.
Less Nutrition
Since intermittent fasting requires you to only eat during certain hours, it can lower the nutrition you get from your diet. As a result, you may end up consuming significantly fewer nutrients than you should. The major downfall is that it can potentially lead to eating disorders if you continue. In turn, this can have an effect on your physical and mental health.
Poor Sleep
Since you will be fasting for an extended time, it can result in poor sleep. This is due to the effect of fasting on your REM cycle. As a result, you may find that you are restless and wake up throughout the night. Since REM sleep improves memory, mood, and learning, you may wake up feeling groggy and unrested. So fasting can leave you feeling less energized throughout the day.
Muscle Loss
If your goal is to build or maintain muscle, intermittent fasting can get in the way. The lack of nutrients and food energy in your diet can inhibit muscle growth. Your body needs proteins and fats for healthy muscles. Without enough of them, you will need to find other ways to sustain your muscle mass. Even if you reach your weight loss goals with intermittent fasting, you may suffer consequences due to muscle loss.
If you have any questions or concerns, stop by, call, or email your Herbal One centre and our qualified counsellors will be happy to give you tips and some great ideas that will help reach your weight loss goals.
If you liked this blog, check out this one on, “Your Weight Management Survival Guide.”