Intermittent Fasting (4 Months Later)

It's been four months that I have been doing Intermittent Fasting (126 days), and I believe it's time to share.  I have not told many people publicly that I've been doing Intermittent Fasting until I have done it long term.  Four months for me is a reasonable long time.  I'm please to report, that over these several months, I've lost a total of 25 lbs, and now have a 31 inch waist (was 36).   Here are a few things I have learnt.

1. I've discovered that while a 16 hour fast is nice, fat burning does not really kick in until you are doing over 18 hours.

2.  You need to do a clean fast - that means that during your fast window, you can only have water, black coffee or black tea.  No to favored water, cream in your coffee, even gum or mints.  Clean means, clean.

3. Fasting is hard the first 2 - 3 days, but then it becomes increasingly easier. I recommend starting with a smaller fasting window (like 16 hour) and slowly increasing the time.

4.  I have found that my energy has not been decreased, but increased while fasting. As a 56 year old (soon to be 57) In August I completed a 6 day, 6 half marathon series through 6 states.  Also in October I competed in the Brooklyn Half Marathon and completed it in a person best time of 1 hour and 51 minutes.  While this is anecdotal, I personally do not see a decrease of energy or concentration, and in fact I would dare to say I've had an increase.

Over these many months I have studied the various research materials and studies regarding Intermittent Fasting, and would like to share summaries of what has been found, and what I believe regarding various myths on dieting.    Stay tune for more sharing on IF (Intermittent Fasting).