Risks and benefits of intermittent fasting: is this right for you?

702’s Clement Manyathela speaks with Simone Blignaut, Dietitian at Core Nutrition

Listen below:

Intermittent fasting involves only eating during a set window.

One common method is the 16/8 plan, where you have an eight-hour window to eat and fast for 16 hours.

Alternatively, people follow the 5:2 diet, where you eat normally for five days and severely restrict calories on two non-consecutive days, or try alternate-day fasting.

Some benefits can include weight loss, improved metabolic health, and even saving money.

Blignaut says a metabolic shift takes place when we fast for more than 12 hours, as our body starts to burn fat for energy instead of using glucose.

“Research has shown that intermittent fasting can lead to a 3% to 8% reduction in body weight in just a few months.”

- Simone Blignaut, Dietitian at Core Nutrition

She adds that it can improve your body's insulin sensitivity which will stabilise blood sugar, and can lower strain on your blood vessels and bring down your blood pressure.

However, she says there are some risks with this diet for certain people.

For example, she says people with type-one diabetes could run the risk of low blood sugar levels, and athletes may not be able to train while fasting.

RELATED: The effects of fasting on your body: 'Fasting must be approached mindfully'

She adds that it may not be safe for pregnant women, and it can also cause menstrual irregularities in women.

“For women I would recommend starting with a smaller fasting period as our hormones are more sensitive, and try slowly building it up while monitoring your menstrual cycle.”

- Simone Blignaut, Dietitian at Core Nutrition (IN: 12: 50)

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