I started intermittent fasting five weeks ago. The transition never seemed difficult. Aside from a few social occasions I was able to stay on course and hit the macronutrient goals which were prescribed for me in March.
When I made the decision to consult with someone regarding macronutrient intake she requested some current photos. Viewing them gave me a much needed kick in the ass. After two months I am pleased with the progress I have made. My goal is not weight loss, but rather to increase strength and muscle tone.
I am only two pounds lighter, but the difference is noticeable. The verdict is intermittent fasting works for me.
I am writing this mostly to give insight to anyone who is curious about intermittent fasting.
When I started this experiment at the beginning of the month my only knowledge on intermittent fasting came from the internet. I had no idea if it would fit into my life.
Some of the variables to be considered are work, exercise patterns and social outings. For instance, on Easter Sunday my parents wanted to go out to brunch. I have been breaking my fast at Noon. Fortunately, they were willing to accommodate.
Exercising has not been an issue because I was already accustomed to doing cardio in a fasted state in the morning. Weight training has proven to be somewhat of a challenge. Lifting in a fasted state doesn’t feel right for me so it has been moved until after I have had my second meal in the early evening.
The only problematic aspect involving work is that I cannot commute (by bike) on the day that I am with clients until 12:30pm because I don’t have the strength (mentally or physically) to ride home.
Some of the observations I have made over the past two weeks:
- The urge to snack has diminished.
- I do better at tracking my macros.
- I give myself less “free passes” because I am usually full by the end of the meal.
- I eat slower (meals now take up to 40 minutes).
- It’s still possible to eat out, but knowing when and where in advance makes it easier.
- I’ve lost two pounds.
As long as it fits, I will continue with intermittent fasting next month...although I won’t allow it to come between me and Mr. Softee when he comes around on summer afternoons.
After reading about the benefits of cold showers I took the leap on January 1st. Three months have passed, unwavered...I still use nothing but cold water.
This month I decided to try intermittent fasting. My morning cardio is done in a fasted state so all I had to do was extend that a few more hours. How difficult could it be? Plenty difficult when your gym buddy shows up with a bakery bag containing a gorgeous Bismarck!
Yesterday was day one. Friday tends to be a busy day for me so the morning went by without a hitch. It was Noon before I knew it and the “feeding window” had opened. My initial game plan is to eat three meals (Noon, 4pm and 8pm) of equal caloric value. At 8pm the window closes.
There is a clear link between these two experiments. For most people reading this, your lives are filled with an abundance of choices...everything from what you watch, to where you go, what you eat and when you eat it...easily accessible...convenient.
This experiment is not rooted in deprivation, but rather discipline. Only time will tell if it ends or becomes a new way of doing things.
Stay tuned for an update...
