Intermittent Fasting

Here are the resources that not only helped me release 40lbs but also helped me regain balance over my blood sugar and so much more. Scroll down to read about all of the benefits of Intermittent Fasting, backed by science. 

The first thing I did is I listened to The Fasting For Life Podcast - I would just go to Spotify and start with episode 1. I listened DAILY for 4 months and in that 4 months I released 30lbs. It's hosted by Dr. Scott Water and Dr. Tommy Wellings and they go into a lot of the science behind fasting and also share many of their personal experiences and experiences with their patients.  

I was then Introduced to Dr. Mindy Pelz. I highly recommend her FREE mini E-Course (found under "Resources") just to get the basics. I am also reading / listening to her book "FastingLike a Girl". She is an expert on Fasting for Women, hormones and menopause. Her YouTube Channel is an excellent resource as is her podcast. https://drmindypelz.com

Also, I often watch Dr. Fung's YouTube Videos & Interviews - as he's seen as one of the main "go-to" fasting people. He's written some excellent books.  
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My favourite thing about all of these people is that they are fun to watch and listen to. They all seem quite knowledgeable and grounded. 

The Benefits - An Overview

The benefits of fasting have been extensively discussed by various health experts, including Scott Watier, Dr. Tommy Welling, Dr. Mindy Pelz, and Dr. Jason Fung. Here is a synthesis of their perspectives on the benefits of fasting:

Dr. Scott Watier and Dr. Tommy Welling, hosts of tThe Fasting For Life Podcast, emphasize the following benefits of fasting:

1. Weight Loss: Fasting helps reduce calorie intake, leading to weight loss. It promotes fat burning by lowering insulin levels and allowing the body to use stored fat for energy.
2. Improved Metabolic Health: Fasting can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.
3. Enhanced Cognitive Function: Intermittent fasting may support brain health by promoting the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is linked to improved cognitive function and reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
4. Autophagy: Fasting triggers autophagy, a cellular cleaning process that removes damaged cells and regenerates new ones, potentially reducing the risk of cancer and promoting longevity.
   
   

Dr. Mindy Pelz, a functional medicine expert, highlights the following benefits of fasting:

1. Hormone Regulation: Fasting can balance hormones such as insulin, ghrelin, and leptin, leading to better appetite control and weight management.
2. Gut Health: Fasting allows the gut to rest and heal, potentially improving conditions like leaky gut syndrome and reducing inflammation.
3. Immune System Support: Fasting may enhance immune function by promoting the regeneration of immune cells and reducing chronic inflammation.
4. Longevity: Dr. Pelz emphasizes that fasting can extend lifespan by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are major contributors to aging. https://drmindypelz.com
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Dr. Jason Fung, a nephrologist and fasting expert, outlines several key benefits of fasting:

1. Reversal of Type 2 Diabetes: Dr. Fung advocates for fasting as a method to reverse type 2 diabetes by significantly lowering insulin levels and promoting insulin sensitivity.
2. Weight Loss and Fat Loss: Fasting helps in losing weight and specifically targeting visceral fat, which is harmful to metabolic health.
3. Improved Heart Health: Fasting can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
4. Cancer Prevention: Fasting may reduce the risk of cancer by decreasing levels of insulin and growth factors that can promote cancer cell growth.
5. Mental Clarity and Focus: Similar to Watier and Welling's views, Fung also highlights that fasting can improve mental clarity and cognitive function. Dr. Fung's YouTube Video's & Interviews​

Common Benefits Highlighted by All Experts

• Weight Loss: A major benefit emphasized by all is effective weight management and fat loss.
• Improved Metabolic Health: Enhanced insulin sensitivity and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Cellular Health and Autophagy: The process of autophagy, which cleanses the body of damaged cells and promotes new cell growth.
• Cognitive and Mental Health: Improved brain function, mental clarity, and potential neuroprotective effects.
• Hormonal Balance: Regulation of hormones that control hunger, metabolism, and stress response.
  
  

These experts collectively suggest that fasting can be a powerful tool for improving overall health, promoting longevity, and preventing a range of chronic diseases. However, it is important to approach fasting with proper guidance and consider individual health conditions and needs.

Summer 2022 on the left / Summer of 2023 on the right