Intermittent Fasting Foodie

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New to Fasting?! 5 Tips!

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in Uncategorized

New to Fasting?! 5 Tips!

So you’re new to, or maybe just considering starting, intermittent fasting?!

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Here are the steps and advice I would give to newbies to the lifestyle.

 

FIRST

 

I think so many people believe their journey will look just like mine (or anyone else that publicly shares their journey).  However, I think it’s important to expect your journey and results with Intermittent fasting to be different.  

 

As individuals, we should all expect different results, different timelines and different preferences.  You’ll be less disappointed if you expect a unique journey from the start.

 

For instance, if I lost 30 lbs in 5 months and you lost 20 in the same time, it doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.  It means we’re individuals, our bodies are reacting as such.

 

SECOND

 

Right on the heels of the first tip, my second is to be okay with not seeing weight loss right from the beginning.  Some people take much longer to see weight loss.  I understand it would be challenging to not see results instantly, but here are some items to focus on:

  • How do you feel?
  • Is fasting beginning to feel easy/less hard?
  • Do clothes fit better?
  • Are you noticing better sleep? More energy?
  • Do you feel free to experience foods with joy?

 

So many benefits can come from Intermittent Fasting – whether losing weight or not.  

 

THIRD

 

Now, lets get into actual action tips – not just mindset.  My first tip is always to NOT TRY DIETING while learning to Intermittent Fast!  Think of times you’ve tried to lose weight in the past… for me I think of joining weight watchers, swearing off sugar and starting a fitness routine all at the same time.  While it sounds good to do it all for maximum results, in reality I often burn out when I try to change everything!

 

Learning to fast is an adjustment all on it’s own.  Focus on that.  Get really good at fasting, enjoy your eating window and allow that to become a lifestyle.  One that you’re comfortable in and is no longer a daily struggle to reach your fasting goal. 

 

Once you’ve built up the fasting muscle, then you can decide what other changes you want to make.  Do you want to add in regular exercise? Awesome!  Limit sugar? Go for it, but do it after you’re adjusted and really good at fasting!  

 

Too much, too fast will lead to burn out in my experience.

 

FOURTH

 

Be flexible!!  I know fasting seems so rigid, but it’s something you’re able to really mold to your life.  

This takes time to understand but here are some practical ways to apply flexibility:

  • If you hit your daily goal and aren’t hungry, it’s okay to keep fasting
  • If you see that you’re extra hungry around your period, allow yourself a longer than normal eating window each month 
  • If you normally eat at 3, but have an event at 1 that’s important for you to participate in, adjust your fast to eat at the earlier time 
  • Even if you don’t plan for a special event and it comes up last minute, realize that having a shorter fast and longer eating window on occasion won’t be the end of your world!  It’s the daily habits that make more impact than the odd balls.

 

When you see that flexibility is an option, you realize how capable you are to keep the Intermittent Fasting lifestyle

 

FIFTH

 

READ, READ, READ!!  I love to encourage, share and spread the word of how important intermittent fasting has been in my life.  However, I think the medical and science of fasting is important for individuals to know!

 

I am NOT the only resource you should have!  Listen to medical experts.  Read books by those that have done studies, have medical training or have poured time into studying the reports.  

 

Here are some of my absolute favorite fasting resources:

 

  • “Fast. Feast. Repeat.” – the first book that got me hooked 
  • “The Fast Diet”
  • “Appetite Correction”

 

When you understand the “why” it’s easier to keep going!  It’s easier to stay the course, learn to hast etc when you have read the supporting documents on why it’s amazing!

 

FINALLY

This is where i hope to especially fit into your fasting journey.  Find community.  I

 

t’s awesome to have people in your own life that also fast.  It may not immediately be the reality in your day-to-day life. (Though I bet that will eventually change once they see you rocking it!!)

 

Ignore haters, and find people that understand and will support you!  Especially if you’re not finding support in your real life, there are many online communities (ahem, such as my YouTube page!)

 

Having people, virtual or in person, that are on the same journey make it nice to share and support each other.  I go live every Wednesday to try and discuss my journey and answer any questions you guys have!

 

Those are my beginner tips! Don’t be afraid to try, to find your groove and you can  rock it!!

 

BONUS

If you have medical concerns with fasting, be sure to talk with your physician.  They will know your unique needs (to include medication) and van give best guidance.