Does Intermittent Fasting Get Easier?

Intermittent fasting has always been marketed as a quick and easy way to lose weight while remaining healthy. It certainly is quick and keeps your body healthy if you do it right, but what about that easy nonsense? Intermittent fasting can be quite difficult on both the body and the mind. The physical strain of restricting food at times you’re used to eating mixed with the mental toll of hunger and cravings makes for one tricky weight loss technique.

Intermittent fasting is certainly one of the best weight loss methods around and is sure to guarantee success if you stick with it. But sticking with it could prove to be much more difficult than you initially thought. So the question we all have when we’re just starting out with intermittent fasting is this: does it ever get any easier?

There are many factors that go into answering that question, but in general, yes. Intermittent fasting CAN get easier if you’re willing to fight through those initial few weeks until it becomes a habit. Let’s take a look at the intermittent fasting process and see how we can make intermittent fasting easier on ourselves.

Key Takeaways

• Intermittent fasting can be challenging on both the body and mind, but it can get easier if you stick with it and make it a habit.
• Easing into the process and gradually working your way up to more demanding forms of fasting can help the body adjust and make intermittent fasting a habit.
• There is no sure method to make intermittent fasting easier, but patience and determination are key.
• It is important to not give up on intermittent fasting just because of cravings or hunger. Sticking with it is the only way to get past the mental hump.
• Fasting apps can be a helpful tool to make intermittent fasting easier, as they can help people track their progress, set goals, and get reminders.

Easing Into the Process

The first step you can take is to make the process easier on yourself. Don’t force yourself into a demanding intermittent fasting plan, hoping to lose weight fast. If you have no experience with intermittent fasting, start out with the lowest form of fasting. Either the 14:10 or the 16:8 work best for new fasters. These break your day down into two periods: fasting and eating with the larger numbers representing the fasting times.

By easing your body into intermittent fasting, you’re helping it to make the process a habit rather than a chore. Starting off easy will help you to associate intermittent fasting as the new normal, rather than a fad your body is going through. Once you’ve associated intermittent fasting with your normal dietary schedule, it will be much easier to partake in.

Working Your Way Up

If you’re determined to reach a higher level and a more demanding intermittent fasting type, you should still start out with an easier plan. Do not just jump into the 22:2 – your body won’t respond well to the shocking change in your eating schedule. To make the most out of intermittent fasting, you must have patience, working your way up to the more difficult methods.

Once your body gets used to the lower levels of intermittent fasting, you can introduce new restrictions without shocking your system. One of the best ways to get to the more demanding forms of intermittent fasting is to start on the hourly plans. Begin with the 16:8, move to the 18:6, then to the 20:4, and finally to the 22:2. There should be space between each switch as your body needs to get used to the plan before you move on from it. This will make intermittent fasting much easier.

It All Depends on You

In the end, unfortunately, it all depends on you. There is no sure method of making intermittent fasting easier as it will affect us all differently. You can ease your way into intermittent fasting, but you’ll still experience the mental strain of dealing with hunger and cravings. It takes training and time to get used to intermittent fasting. The more you stick with it, the easier it gets.

Do not give up on intermittent fasting just because the cravings get the best of you every now and then. The only way you’re going to get past that mental hump is by sticking with it. Intermittent fasting does get easier, but it takes time.

Don’t forget to check our recommended fasting apps to make your intermittent fasting journey easier.

FAQ

• Does intermittent fasting get easier?

Yes, intermittent fasting can get easier with time and practice as your body adapts to the new eating pattern.

• How long does it take for intermittent fasting to get easier?

It varies from person to person. Some may find it easier within a few days or weeks, while others may take months to adjust to the new eating pattern.

• What are some common challenges people face when starting intermittent fasting?

Some common challenges when starting intermittent fasting include hunger, low energy levels, difficulty sleeping, and cravings.

• What are some tips for making intermittent fasting easier?

Some tips for making intermittent fasting easier include starting with a shorter fasting window and gradually increasing it, staying hydrated, eating nutrient-dense meals during the eating window, and finding healthy ways to manage stress.

• Can intermittent fasting have negative effects on your health?

Intermittent fasting can negatively affect your health if not done properly, such as dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and increased stress levels. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting intermittent fasting, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

• Is intermittent fasting suitable for everyone?

Intermittent fasting may not be suitable for everyone, particularly pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with a history of eating disorders, and those with certain medical conditions. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting intermittent fasting.