5 Intermittent Fasting Side Effects You Cannot Ignore

Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that involves fasting as well as eating at regular intervals. Fasting for 10, 12, 14, or 16 hours is required in this diet plan, depending on how the body responds to fasting. It is critical to feed yourself whenever you are hungry so that you do not go hungry.

When you do the latter, you may experience negative side effects such as slowed metabolism and loss of appetite. Every diet plan has advantages and disadvantages. Intermittent fasting and the keto diet, for example, are only effective when followed in the right order.

Side effects of intermittent fasting that you should be aware of

If you stick to this diet plan and don't starve yourself when you're hungry, it may provide health benefits such as weight loss, improved digestion, detoxification, and even the reversal of type 2 diabetes. However, drinking coffee or tea during the fasting period, as well as fasting for as long as 16 hours, can cause appetite loss.

Loss Of Appetite

Research has found that intermittent fasting may reduce appetite over time, which may aid in weight loss. However, nutritional deficiencies, fatigue, headaches, and a lack of energy are all possibilities. The body requires good food and nutrition to function properly throughout the day, and a lack of it will cause far more harm than good.

Sleep Disruption

Sleeping on an empty stomach can be difficult for some people. If dinner was completed at 7 or 8 p.m., one is likely to be hungry at 11 p.m. or 12 a.m.

It may be difficult to adjust to the change in eating patterns during the first few days or weeks of intermittent fasting. And, because one is not permitted to eat during the fasting period, sleep may be disrupted.

Increased Cravings, Mood Swings, And Irritability

Although intermittent fasting is high in carbs, fats, and protein, the fasting period works similarly to calorie restriction. To effectively lose weight, you must practice portion control and eat healthy preferably low-calorie foods. Some of the most common side effects of calorie-restrictive diets are increased cravings, mood swings, and irritability.

Slow metabolism

In the case of intermittent fasting, prolonged fasting periods and a lack of adequate nutrition during the eating phase can slow down the body's metabolism. People with diabetes, those with a history of eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid this type of diet plan, according to experts.

Caffeine Addiction

Some health experts recommend drinking tea or coffee during the eating phase of intermittent fasting. These stimulants can cause you to go for hours without feeling the need to eat over time. Too much coffee consumption during the fasting period may become an unavoidable side effect of intermittent fasting.

To make intermittent fasting work for you, you must eat healthy, filling, and nutritious foods during your eating phase. Reduce the length of your fasting period if your body craves food. Avoid unhealthy snacks and stay active; regular exercise is essential.