Intermittent fasting is an increasingly popular way to lose weight by skipping meals. A new review says dietary restriction may not be enough to shed some body fat, at least not by itself.
Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark and Wageningen University in the Netherlands have summarized what we know about fasting.
A lot of data has been collected over the years, covering many aspects of how intermittent fasting affects the body. One of the key takeaways is that intermittent fasting must be combined with calorie restriction for any weight loss to be seen. Instead of taking long breaks between meals, the difference is a reduction in overall calorie intake.
“When you’re intermittent fasting, the basic rule of thumb is that if you want to lose weight, you need to eat fewer calories than you burn.” He says. Molecular biologist Philip Ruppert from the University of Southern Denmark.
“This means that intermittent fasting does not give you a free pass to eat unlimited foods. This is basic physiology, and fasting cannot change that.”
There is a lot of ground in the evaluation, looking at the effects of intermittent fasting at the molecular level. These increase the breakdown of fatty acids in the body to provide energy ketogenesis (This high level of fatty acid breakdown leads to the liver producing ketones).
The paper also explores happiness Some people get it After several days of fasting, feelings of happiness begin to replace feelings of hunger – perhaps in response to changes in the body and brain’s chemical processes.
This is what Rupert himself experienced during his fast. For now, scientists are not sure why this happens, but one possibility This is ketones Because you are efficiently supplying energy to the brain, it flows into a happy state.
“The brain feeds on ketones during fasting”. He says. “Maybe that’s why you can experience this clarity,” Ruppert said.
There are different approaches to intermittent fasting, with some people not eating for certain hours of the day and others not eating for certain days of the week. Many famous public figures have also subscribed to these diets.
The research team pointed to several health benefits beyond weight loss, including: Low blood pressure. What is clear is that everyone’s response to fasting is different, and it is important to consult a doctor if you are thinking about reducing your food intake.
“Of course, intermittent fasting has many health benefits, but fasting itself does not lead to significant weight loss.” He says. Ruppert
The study was published in Trends in endocrinology and metabolism.