How to Start Intermittent Fasting?

One of the most difficult parts of intermittent fasting is getting started. Once it’s part of your lifestyle and you’ve been with it for a few weeks or months, then it’s simple. But starting out can seem impossible, especially if you’re cutting out eating at a time in which your body is used to it.

For me, intermittent fasting was nearly impossible to stick with as I was a late-night snacker. I would cut myself off at 8 pm and then midnight would roll around and I would convince myself that one snack wasn’t going to ruin the weight loss. It’s the small moments like that which can build up and derail your intermittent fasting experience.

So how do you stick with it?

It’s a mixture of self-discipline and having help by your side as you start out. If you’re starting out intermittent fasting without a support system by your side – friends, family, online apps, and programs – then you’re destined to fail.

When I was struggling to get started, I turned to a wide array of intermittent fasting apps I found online that helped me stay honest with myself. Intermittent fasting will always be difficult to start, but certain apps and programs can make it much more achievable.

Key Takeaways

• Start out slow and choose a less grueling intermittent fasting method such as 16 and 8, which involves an 8-hour eating window and a 16-hour fasting window.
• Find a friend, family member, or online support system to help keep you accountable and motivated as you start out with intermittent fasting.
• Consider using an intermittent fasting app to help you stick with your fasting schedule and learn more about the practice.
• Listen to your body and adjust your fasting schedule or method as needed to avoid discomfort or negative side effects.
• Remember that intermittent fasting is a lifestyle change, not a quick fix, and it’s important to be patient and consistent to see long-term results.

Start Out Slow

Don’t rush into intermittent fasting. If you’re looking to lose 10 pounds in a week, then you could find yourself starting some pretty dangerous habits. Intermittent fasting is a fast way to lose weight, as long as you’re patient. Don’t expect to drop 10 pounds in a week as that’s just unrealistic.

It’s important to start intermittent fasting at a slower pace so that your body can adjust to the new normal. Switching up your diet in such a drastic way too quickly can be quite damaging. I would recommend starting with one of the less grueling intermittent fasting methods.

16 and 8 or another fasting method that breaks down your day into an 8-hour eating window and a 16-hour fasting window and it might be the best option for your body if you are just starting out.

Once your body adjusts to new normal, then you can ramp up your intermittent fasting – within reason. Remember, your body still needs to eat to function or build muscle, so eating is just as important as fasting with intermittent fasting.

Find a Friend or Family Member

Don’t go into intermittent fasting alone – it can be extremely difficult and possibly dangerous without someone helping you. Whether they’re fasting with you or simply aware that you’re starting intermittent fasting, having them by your side will make the process much more accessible.

Keep yourself honest and have someone to answer to when you break your intermittent fasting trends. This comes down to basic psychological trends – when you have someone helping you through a practice, it becomes much more doable.

Finding the Right App for You

Sometimes, getting started with fasting is all about the tools you have at your disposal. Luckily, there are countless intermittent fasting apps available online that provide you with access to those very tools. Many of these apps are designed to teach you about intermittent fasting while making it much easier to stick with.

Apps like DoFasting or Fastic help incorporate intermittent fasting into your normal daily routine which makes sticking with it simple. Once you’ve committed yourself to intermittent fasting and made it part of your day, then you’ll have a much easier time keeping up with it and losing weight.

As we said, one of the most difficult parts of intermittent fasting is getting started. However, with the tips and tricks mentioned above, you’ll be intermittent fasting in no time. Get started today and feel the health benefits of intermittent fasting!

FAQ

• How do I start intermittent fasting?

To start intermittent fasting, choose a method that suits your lifestyle, set a fasting schedule, and gradually adjust your eating habits to fit within your fasting window.

• What should I eat during my eating window?

It’s important to consume healthy, nutrient-dense foods during your eating window, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed and high-sugar foods.

• Can I drink water during the fasting period?

Yes, drinking water, coffee, or tea is allowed during fasting as long as they are consumed without added sugars or cream.

• Is intermittent fasting safe for everyone?

Intermittent fasting may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a history of disordered eating. Therefore, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting intermittent fasting.