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Intermittent Fasting Done Right: A nutrition expert tells how to make it work for you

Intermittent fasting can be beneficial if done correctly.

Intermittent fasting is all the buzz these days, with everyone having something to say about when and how to eat.

Tanna Fox, certified nutritionist and the founder of Live Right Nutrition, shares her take on intermittent fasting, and gives the lowdown on this popular practice.

Find more health advice from Tanna on Instagram, @live.right.nutrition.

 

How to Make Intermittent Fasting Work for You

There’s been a lot of mixed messaging and conflicting studies on intermittent fasting, making it a bit confusing. But Tanna is a fan when it’s done right and believes it can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. One of the primary benefits she mentions is its ability to help burn fat and maintain weight. But her favorite aspect is something called autophagy, where the body cleanses and detoxifies itself during fasting.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: is intermittent fasting something we should do every day? Tanna advises against going all-in every day, as it’s just one piece of the puzzle. It’s essential to incorporate other healthy habits like weightlifting and choosing nutritious foods. Intermittent fasting is simple, but it’s not the end-all be-all of a healthy lifestyle.

Women Under 35

For those under 35, Tanna recommends a daily 12-hour fast, which is easily achieved by fasting overnight. This approach aligns well with the body’s natural fat-burning processes.

Women Between 35-50

Moving on to women between 35 and 50, Tanna advises a 16-hour fast two or three times a week during the first 15 days of their menstrual cycle. This timing works harmoniously with hormone fluctuations and provides optimal results.

Women 50+

Now, for the postmenopausal ladies, Tanna suggests taking a weekly approach. It’s about finding what works for you, considering your busier and less busy days. Fasting for two to three days a week and incorporating a 24-hour fast once a week can provide the desired benefits. However, it’s crucial to listen to your body and adjust accordingly.

Regardless of age, Tanna emphasizes the importance of eating protein at every meal, consuming healthy fats, incorporating leafy greens, and fasting for at least 12 hours. Breaking the fast with high-protein foods, dark greens, and healthy fats is a great way to nourish your body.

Remember, intermittent fasting is just one component of a holistic approach to health. It’s not a magic solution, and it’s essential to listen to your body’s needs and adapt your fasting routine accordingly. It’s all about finding what works for you, embracing a healthy lifestyle, and making choices that align with your goals and overall well-being. Cheers to intermittent fasting done right!

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