Intermittent Fasting
Definition
An eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating, focused on when you eat rather than what you eat.
Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating approach that restricts food consumption to specific time windows. Popular methods include 16:8 (eating within an 8-hour window and fasting for 16 hours), 5:2 (eating normally for 5 days and restricting calories to 500-600 on 2 non-consecutive days), and eat-stop-eat (24-hour fasts once or twice per week).
Research suggests intermittent fasting can support weight loss, improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular repair through autophagy. These benefits appear to extend beyond simple calorie reduction, as the fasting state triggers specific metabolic pathways.
Intermittent fasting is not appropriate for everyone. It is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, people with eating disorders, or individuals with certain medical conditions. Starting with a shorter fasting window and gradually extending it helps the body adapt.
Related Calculators
Related Terms
Calorie Deficit
healthA state where you consume fewer calories than your body burns, which is required for weight loss.
Metabolic Rate
healthThe speed at which your body burns calories for energy, encompassing basal metabolic rate plus the energy used for activity and digestion.
BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate)
healthThe number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions at complete rest, such as breathing, circulation, and cell production.
Macronutrients
healthThe three categories of nutrients that provide calories and energy: protein, carbohydrates, and fat, needed by the body in large quantities.
Related Articles
How to Calculate BMI: Formula, Chart & What It Means
Learn how to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) with the simple formula. Understand what your BMI means, its limitations, and when to use other health metrics.
How to Calculate Calories for Weight Loss: TDEE Guide
Learn how to calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) and create a calorie deficit for healthy weight loss. Includes formulas, activity multipliers, and a free calculator.
How to Calculate Body Fat Percentage: Methods Compared
Learn 5 different methods to calculate body fat percentage, from the free US Navy method to DEXA scans. Understand what your body fat percentage means for health.
How to Calculate Your Macros for Weight Loss or Muscle Gain
Step-by-step guide to calculating your macronutrient needs. Learn how to set protein, carbs, and fat targets for weight loss, maintenance, or muscle building.