Now that you’re buzzing about keto, why should you consider intermittent fasting and what are the benefits if you do?  It’s pretty common, lots of health enthusiasts use fasting as an additional technique to lose weight, control their diet and address other health conditions.  They also rave about the results seen from intermittent fasting.  But, should this method be used in conjunction with keto?  That’s debatable! So, let’s knock it around to see you if you want to give it a try!

First, let’s get the scoop on what exactly is intermittent fasting. 

In a nutshell, it’s an eating method that cycles between calorie restriction.  In simple terms you go between not eating(or eating minimal calories), to eating regularly during a certain time or period of the day. 

One of the most common types of intermittent fasting is the 16/8 method.   It involves eating during an eight-hour time frame before fasting for 16 hours.  This is the method I’ve had the most success with!  Another popular fasting regimen is the 5:2.   With this method you eat regularly for five days then restrict your calorie intake between 500–600 calories on the other two days. 

Lastly, there is the Warrior Diet which is a stricter fasting method.  This method is for folks who consume 85% to 90% of their calories during a four hour window.  Unfortunately following this method could lead to some nutritional deficiencies since it requires you to consume a whopping 1,800 calories in one sitting.  So, if you are pregnant or an athlete you’ll definitely want to stay clear of this one.   As a matter of fact fasting before working out is not a good idea.  Your body needs fuel to endure exercise and fasting pulls from your reserves so this can impact your workout.

I’m sure you’re wondering why the heck would you go hungry for so long? 

Intermittent fasting has been used for a long time.   Studies have found it helpful in calming inflammation, as well as improving brain function and blood sugar control.  Something our dear friend Keto also seeks to do.

When we stick to the ketogenic routine our body starts working through fats instead of glucose to give our body the energy it needs.  The best benefits of keto, are it can reduce blood sugar, improve insulin resistance and assist in triglyceride level management. Yay!

But hold up, should you fast and commit too keto at the same time?

Seems like a lot of work? So why should you consider intermittent fasting?  Intermittent fasting may help your body reach ketosis quicker.  That’s because your body, when fasting, switches to fats (as opposed to carbs) as its fuel source.  When this happens the insulin levels decrease – sound familiar? Ding ding, Ketosis! Intermittent fasting is also known to boost metabolism by burning through the body’s fat reserves when there is no food to be processed.  Some experience feelings of fullness when intermittent fasting, as they train their body to respond to eating at certain times. Sounds like a game changer to me, right?

While many swear by a combo of intermittent fasting and keto, it’s not recommended for everyone.

Those who should avoid fasting are women breastfeeding or pregnant.   It can also trigger anyone with a history of eating disorders.  And of course, folks with more severe health conditions, like diabetes or heart disease, should also chat with their doctor before fasting. 

In addition, there are some side effects to consider.  For example, irritability, fatigue, dehydration and over-eating during non fasting times.  So if you’re struggling to reach ketosis heaven, have a chat with your doctor.  They can help determine if you’re a good candidate for intermittent fasting and consult on how to avoid the side effects.  If you get the green light you should see some positive results in no time.