What are your stakes about intermittent fasting ?
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Intermittent fasting, or time-restricted feeding, is a widely discussed topic in relation to its health benefits and its effects on metabolism and hormones. Here are some insights from the :
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Health Benefits: Intermittent fasting has been associated with improvements in liver enzymes and insulin sensitivity, which can enhance how the body utilizes blood sugar and calories 1. This practice may also extend lifespan, improve mental clarity, and increase the rewarding feeling of eating after a fasting period 2. It can contribute to metabolic flexibility by allowing insulin and glucose levels to drop, potentially reducing cardiovascular risks, but these benefits are still under study 3.
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Challenges and Risks: Fasting can have rewarding properties, leading to a dopamine release not from eating, but from abstaining 4. It's important to be cautious, as intermittent fasting can sometimes lead to hypomania in people with psychiatric conditions 4. The potential impact on cardiovascular health is still debated, with some studies suggesting increased risks, though criticized for poor methodology 3.
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Hormonal Effects: Intermittent fasting can lead to spikes in growth hormone levels, which may benefit older adults more than younger ones 2. For those consuming sufficient calories, fasting does not negatively affect hormones like testosterone or DHEA 2.
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Muscle Building: Intermittent fasting can be a part of muscle-building routines, though for extreme bodybuilding goals, continuous feeding might be more effective. More severe fasting practices might not be optimal for retaining lean mass 5.
These insights suggest that intermittent fasting has diverse applications and possible benefits, but it's important to tailor it to individual health goals and conditions, and to consult healthcare providers when making any significant dietary changes.
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