I fasted every day for over a decade.

(I’m still alive, so I guess that’s something.)

All joking aside, intermittent fasting (IF) is one of the most controversial diet protocols out there.

intermittent fasting concept, alarm clock on dinner plate

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According to theMayo Clinic, intermittentfastingis not eating for a certain amount of time every day or week.

Some common ways to go about intermittent fasting are alternate-day fasting, daily time-restricted fasting, and 5:2 fasting.

Some claim intermittent fasting works; others claim that it’s crazy and can cause health problems.

intermittent fasting concept, plate half full

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What’s the real truth?

You won’t starve.

(If you have a medical condition that requires consistent food, IF isn’t for you.)

Do not consume calories during your fast: only water, black coffee, or tea.

Researchhas found that feelings of hunger remain stable and can even decrease during IF.

Also, remember thatover abillionpeople fast during Ramadan!

Intermittent fasting can boost your fat loss.

Astudyby the University of Chicago found a large amount of fat loss from a fasting regimen in obese women.

Anotherstudyfound that doing IF every other day slashed body fat by 4% in as little as three weeks.

Will IF help you live until 120?

Fasting inhibitsmTOR, which is a pathway that has astrong effect on longevity.Researchshows that fasting can even reduce inflammation.

In fact, a three-year-longstudyat a senior home found fasting reduced deaths and illnesses.

The research also found that fasting is a solid method for weight management.

Some loved ones may get upset when you say that you fast.

Ultimately, IF isn’t for everyone.

Just stick with it, and enjoy what works for you.