Deep down, we're all a little impatient. Honestly, I don't even mind admitting that I'm impatient. In my opinion, impatient people get things done! So it's not unusual that one question people have about Intermittent Fasting is "how long will does Intermittent Fasting take to work?". In fact according to google, this question has suddenly BLOWN UP the google search bar in the past 3 days. So I decided to break it down for you guys and give you ALL the deets you need to know about Intermittent Fasting and exactly how long it takes to start seeing results.
What Is Intermittent Fasting?
You naturally fast while you sleep everyday. Intermittent Fasting takes this "fast" a little bit further. (That's also why your breakfast is called "break-fast"🤯) In order to truly "fast", you need to wait at least 12 hours from your last meal (at dinner) to eat your first meal (your "break-fast"). 12 hours of fasting is when autophagy starts to kick in and your cells begin cleaning themselves out (see the next section for more details).
Ideally, you want to aim for a 16 hour fast with an 8 hour "eating window" to maximize your fat burning results while still getting the nutrients you need from your meals to maintain fat burning.
However, it's important to note that this does NOT mean just skipping a meal OR restricting your calories. I review all of these details in my Complete Intermittent Fasting Program.
Pssst - wondering what type of fasting is best for your goals? Click below for my free Intermittent Fasting Schedule quiz to find out!
How Does Intermittent Fasting Work?
Intermittent Fasting helps to get rid of bad mitochondria (your cells energy powerhouse) and allows your gut to rest. This combination helps your body become better at using stored fat as an energy source. Intermittent Fasting also helps to naturally decrease your fat storing hormone, insulin, which allows the fat burning process called lipolysis to naturally turn back on.(1) Not to mention, Intermittent Fasting also aids in significantly reducing bloating by turning on the Migrating Motor Complex (aka MMC).(2) The MMC sweeps out left behind food and bacteria that would normally lead to bloating. By not eating during your fasting period with Intermittent Fasting, your insulin levels naturally dip back down (turning on fat burning) and your MMC starts to kick in (to decrease bloating).
How Long Does Intermittent Fasting Take To Work?
AEN peeps have reported zero bloating after just 24 hours of using Intermittent Fasting. After just 2-3 days, they have also reported significantly improved sleep and increased energy levels. After 1 week, reduced sugar cravings and more regular bowel movements. Weight loss results also vary, but AEN peeps have reported a range of 1-5 pounds of weight loss within just the first week of the Complete Intermittent Fasting Program.
What Are The Benefits Of Intermittent Fasting?
AEN peeps (Autumn Elle Nutrition peeps) have reported:
-significant weight loss
-reduced body fat percentage
-increased lean muscle
-increased energy levels
-significantly reduced bloating
-reduced "puffiness" in the face
-more regular bowel movements
-decreased sugar cravings
-decreased breakouts
This is confirmed with studies finding that Intermittent Fasting protocols have been found to significantly aid in weight loss and reducing insulin levels (the fat storing hormone).(3)
How Do You Get Started With Intermittent Fasting?
One common mistake I see with Intermittent Fasting is people jump in without a plan. I've seen this mistake lead to hormone imbalances, extreme sugar cravings and halted weight loss results. I believe that knowledge is power and with the right tools, you can achieve your wellness dreams while still eat foods you love!
That's why I created The Complete Intermittent Fasting Program. It contains all of the latest research on Intermittent Fasting, breaks down the science so you can understand what you're doing and why. It even has 8 weeks of meal-by-meal planning with delicious recipes to help keep you satiated AND your taste buds happy! I'm talking L.A. Street Tacos, Pumpkin Chili, Strawberry Coconut Muffins, Spicy Curry and MORE! The Program also includes a 3 week workout program and exercise strategies specifically designed for Intermittent Fasting in order to maximize your fat burning results!
Get the step-by-step deets on how to achieve your weight loss goals with the Complete Intermittent Fasting Program! Over 100 recipes, 8 weeks of meal-by-meal planning, restaurant guidelines, exercise strategies and MORE.
Head over HERE to get started!
Your Nutritionist,
Autumn
Autumn Elle Nutrition