Part 1: 5 Intermittent Fasting Myths

Intermittent Fasting is a term for various meal timing schedules that cycle between voluntary fasting and non-fasting over a given period.  It’s become a widely popular healthy trend by many nutrition experts and used regularly in the Burn Fat and Feast program. There are however, several misconceptions when it comes to fasting and so many people get it wrong or have an incorrect approach to IF.  I will be doing a series of 5 Intermittent Fasting Myths over the next few weeks starting today with Part 1. It’s important to note that IF is NOT a diet.  Intermittent Fasting is simply a way of eating.  It’s a period of eating and a period of not eating.

Myth – It’s Just Skipping Breakfast

It is not just skipping meals.  IF is just delaying your first meal of the day. Did you know that Breakfast is simply “breaking your fast”.  You still need to eat all your meals for the day and it’s important that you do eat.

Myth – All Intermittent Fasting is the Same

It’s actually not the same and looks different by incorporating it in different ways on different days.  The typical window is a 16 hour fast/8 hour feeding window,  but it could look like a 12 hour fast/12 hour feeding window.  There is also a 24 hour fast or even a 48 hour fast.  There are several variations to try and one is not better than the other.

Myth – Intermittent Fasting is Only for Weight-loss

While you certainly can lose weight implementing IF into your nutrition routine, it’s actually more important for the health benefits.  Benefits include increased brain function, reduced inflammation in the body, decreased risk of heart disease, and is even shown to prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s and certain type of cancers.

Myth – You Can Eat Whatever You Want in Your Window

Whole food nutrition is always the best answer!  Be prepared with healthy options when breaking your fast so that you don’t binge on junk and other processed foods.

Myth – Intermittent Fasting is Good for Everyone

I will say mostly this is true, but it’s not for anyone who is underweight or struggles with any type of eating disorder.  It’s always important to check with your doctor or nutrition expert before making any major changes to your diet. Stay tuned for Part 2 where I’ll share another 5 Intermittent Fasting myths with you. For additional training be sure to check out our FREE Ultimate Guide to Intermittent Fasting for Women.