It’s more likely than not that you or someone you know has tried a fad diet in recent years. Starting a health journey can sometimes involve testing out different lifestyle choices in order to identify what works for you. Unfortunately, intermittent fasting diets and fads have been shown to incite disordered relationships with food and eating for many individuals.

Some health professionals have begun to think this may be the case with the growing trend of intermittent fasting, or IF. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, let’s take a look and discuss the concerns health professionals have noted in recent studies.  

What is Intermittent Fasting? 

Intermittent fasting involves a few non-consecutive days of the week designated for periods of fasting. Many individuals utilize a 16/8 approach where 16 hours of the day involve fasting while 8 hours are designated for eating. 

As we fast our bodies enter a state of ketosis, in which we utilize stored fat as an energy resource rather than food. Although this may sound like a magical solution, the trend has raised concerns for health professionals as research continues to expand. 

Does Intermittent Fasting Work?

As the trendiness of Intermittent fasting gains its audience, scientific research grows in interest. Even before studies had begun to take shape, professionals posed the question; does intermittent fasting work? Let’s explore some perspectives. 

Truthfully, the answer to the question is complicated, and you may hear different things depending on who you ask. Intermittent fasting is said to be successful under the guidance of a professional. However, the process is frequently pursued outside of clinical expertise. 

This is where concern surrounding the topic stems from in the health sphere. Behavioral Psychologists have made a connection between intermittent fasting and the behaviors of restrictive eating disorders. This pattern seems to be the more common outcome of individuals attempting intermittent fasting. 

A Whole Approach to Health

When it comes to aiding our health, the last thing we want to do is restrict nutrients. This is why whole nutrition is a more conscious and sustainable option in an individual’s journey to health. Creating healthy choices around food shouldn’t mean eliminating it! Prioritizing nutrient-dense foods that target our goals makes us more likely to develop a positive relationship with food and eating.

Besides, we have so much more to gain when we shift our focus away from restrictive eating. By doing this, we learn to prioritize the nutritional needs of our bodies. Achieving health or fitness goals involves loving the food you eat and the ways those foods support your health. Without this notion, we begin to view food as an obstacle to avoid, as can be seen with the rise of intermittent fasting.

Prioritizing Proper Nutrition

As you approach your health journey, establish your goals and learn what type of nutrition supports them. When we learn more about healthy foods and what they offer our bodies, we become excited to eat them! Incorporate whole grains into your lifestyle and prioritize protein for muscle health and recovery. And most importantly, enjoy healthy and whole meals that nourish your body. 

Also, don’t be afraid to seek guidance in your journey! Achieving health goals isn’t always easy. Sometimes, the guidance of a professional is the missing link to our success.

Nutrition Made Easy with Z.E.N. Foods

If you’re looking for support in building healthy choices, look no further! Z.E.N. Foods is an expert resource that delivers nutrient-rich meals straight to your door. Z.E.N. offers fat-burning meals that are perfect for your Intermittent Fasting regimen. Get in touch with a Z.E.N. consultant today by calling (310) 205-9368!