Fasting has been buzzing around the health and wellness world for a while now, but if you are new to it, the idea can sound a bit intimidating. Skipping meals on purpose? Sounds wild at first. The truth is, fasting has been around for centuries in many cultures and traditions, and with the right approach it can actually be enjoyable, energising, and a game changer for your wellbeing.
Let’s break it down into bite sized (pun intended) steps so you can give fasting a go without feeling like you are climbing a mountain on an empty stomach.
What is Fasting, Really?
At its simplest, fasting means taking a break from eating for a set period of time. It is not about starving yourself or punishing your body, it is about giving your system a rest. Think of it like a reset button for your digestion.
There are different styles of fasting:
-
Intermittent fasting: This is the most popular for beginners. You might eat all your meals within an 8 hour window, for example 12pm to 8pm, and then fast for the remaining 16 hours.
-
Time restricted eating: Similar to intermittent fasting, but more flexible. Some people prefer a 10 hour eating window instead.
-
Occasional fasting days: A few people choose to fast for a whole day once or twice a week, though this can be trickier for beginners.
The best method is the one that feels comfortable and fits into your lifestyle.
Why Try Fasting?
Fasting is not just about eating less, it can bring some great health benefits when done correctly:
-
More stable energy through the day
-
Less bloating and improved digestion
-
Mental clarity and focus
-
A better relationship with food
Some people also find it supports healthy weight management, though fasting should never be seen as a quick fix diet.
Tips for Beginners
If you are thinking of giving fasting a try, here are a few tips to make it easier and healthier:
-
Stay hydrated: Water is your best friend. Herbal teas and black coffee can also help get you through fasting hours.
-
Start small: Begin with 12 hours overnight (say 8pm to 8am) before jumping into longer fasts.
-
Eat nutritious meals: When it is time to eat, fill your plate with whole foods like lean protein, colourful veg, and healthy fats. You want your body to be fuelled, not deprived.
-
Listen to your body: If you feel dizzy, overly tired, or unwell, take a step back. Fasting is not meant to be torture.
-
Be consistent, not perfect: Missing your eating window once in a while will not ruin everything. The benefits come from overall balance.
Keeping It Healthy and Fun
The key is to make fasting work for you rather than the other way around. Try planning social meals inside your eating window so you can still enjoy dinners with friends. Experiment with different fasting schedules to see what makes you feel good. Celebrate the wins, even if that win is just realising you can handle breakfast a bit later.
Fasting is not a magic solution, but it can be a brilliant tool to improve your health and give your body a little breathing space. The trick is to keep it simple, keep it healthy, and enjoy the process. After all, food is meant to be enjoyed, and fasting should help you do that even more.