
I started intermittent fasting for weight loss in the last week of November. So, its been two months and some days since I have been on this 16:8 plan. I fast for 16 hours and eat in the remaining 8 hours.
Here are my observations from the last two months:
The 16:8 plan is the best, because you spend at least 8 hours sleeping. The remaining 8 hours are usually in the evening or morning which can be easily handled by drinking black tea or coffee.
I usually eat eggs for dinner (my last meal of the day before beginning my fast), because the protein in the eggs takes long to digest and prevents hunger pangs. I prefer boiled eggs or oil less omlette with some vegetables like tomatoes, onion, corriander and garlic.
Apart from the lunch and dinner timngs, if I feel hungry, I first drink at least two glasses of warm water. This helps me to understand whether I am feeling thirsty or hungry. If I feel hungry, I have a small fruit like an orange or banana (never more than one).
Earlier, I used to have breakfast, lunch and dinner and even some snacks in between. Now, I do not feel like having anything except lunch and dinner. Perhaps, fasting helps in disciplining your body and telling your mind to stop craving for food when not hungry.
I have had cheat days also during this period. However, I prefer to restrict my cheat days to one meal only. The thing is with intermittent fasting is that it helps you to reduce your cravings and also over all fat. I have not tried other variations of intermittent fasting so far and I will be sticking to the 16:8 format for sometime.
If you have any doubts on intermittent fasting or are a beginner in this field, do consult a doctor before beginning this program. You can also message me on this site using the chat box provided!