Here's how intermittent fasting with a clean diet can speed up weight loss
by Elloww Team
Chances are you’ve heard of the clean diet: replacing processed, refined foods with whole unprocessed foods. It’s swept the world and picked up a glut of celebrity followers on social media who swear by it (hello Jennifer Aniston). Now the clean diet has a new partner which is making its weight loss and health benefits even more effective. Say hello to intermittent fasting!
What is intermittent fasting?
Unlike the clean diet, intermittent fasting isn’t about what you eat, but when you eat it. It’s a carefully managed pattern which cycles between fasting and eating and is designed to suit each individual’s lifestyle. Common intermittent fasting methods are the 5:2 diet (eat normally for 5 days, fast 2 days) or 16/8 (fast for 16 hours, eat for 8 hours).
Although we live in an age of plentiful food, our hunter-gatherer ancestors lived on an intermittent fasting diet, since they didn't know when they'd catch their next meal. So our bodies have evolved to handle fasting very effectively, and the health benefits are plentiful.
What are the benefits?
Studies show intermittent fasting can reduce inflammation, lower blood sugar, repairs cells, and may reduce "bad" cholesterol.
The most common reason people try intermittent dieting, though, is weight loss. Less time to eat meals and snacks means an instant reduction in calorie intake. When combined with clean eating, the results are powerful and can lead to a permanent, healthier change.
High-quality protein, whole grains, healthy fats, and ethically raised meat are all encouraged. Contrary to popular belief, flash-frozen fruits and veggies are healthy too. Whichever intermittent fasting pattern you choose, it's important to plan your diet. Here are a few tips to bear in mind:
• Try to "eat a rainbow" of different-coloured fruit and veggies each day. These should form the basis of your diet.
• Make friends with water. It's easy to become dehydrated, so carry a refillable water bottle with you and sip on it through the day.
• Replace grains with veggies. Ever heard of cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash? People are finding more and more ways to replace refined carbs with healthy alternatives. Don't be afraid to experiment!
Find out how we at Basiligo can make your life easier with our intermittent meal plans by clicking here.
