The Do’s and Don’ts of Intermittent Fasting: Why It’s More Than Just Skipping Meals

If you’ve ever tried intermittent fasting to lose weight or manage chronic pain and ended up feeling frustrated, deprived, or even worse, you’re not alone. Many women, especially those dealing with chronic pain and inflammation, find that fasting can sometimes feel like it’s working against them. So, is intermittent fasting worth it? And if so, how can it be a helpful tool rather than just another quick fix?

Let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts of intermittent fasting—what works, what doesn’t, and how to use fasting as a part of a healing journey.

My Story: Why I Started Using Intermittent Fasting

For years, I struggled with chronic pain, weight issues, and fatigue. Like many of you, I tried different diets, supplements, and exercise routines but couldn’t find relief. When I discovered naturopathy, it changed everything for me. Through a holistic approach, I was able to address the root causes of my symptoms, not just mask them. And now, as a Naturopathic Doctor, I help women on similar journeys to regain their health and confidence.

Intermittent fasting became one of the tools I explored and adapted for my clients. However, I quickly learned that not all fasting methods work for everyone, and for some, fasting can even make symptoms worse. Here’s what I discovered and how you can make fasting work for you.

The Top Intermittent Fasting Methods: Pros and Cons

Not all fasting methods are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular ones and what you need to know:

1. 16:8 Method – 16 hours of fasting, 8-hour eating window
   • Pros: Helps regulate blood sugar and fits easily into a busy schedule.
   • Cons: For those dealing with chronic pain or inflammation, 16 hours without food can raise cortisol levels, making symptoms worse.
2. 5:2 Method – Normal eating for five days, restrict to around 500 calories for two days
   • Pros: Flexible and effective for insulin sensitivity.
   • Cons: Restricting calories can lead to fatigue and nutrient deficiencies, especially if you’re dealing with cravings or emotional eating.
3. Alternate-Day Fasting – Every other day fasting with limited calories
   • Pros: Easier than daily fasting for some and may support heart health.
   • Cons: Energy crashes on fasting days can worsen chronic pain and lead to overeating on non-fasting days.
4. OMAD (One Meal a Day)
   • Pros: Simplifies meal decisions.
   • Cons: Very restrictive and often leads to nutrient deficiencies. Digesting a large meal at once can cause bloating and discomfort.
5. Time-Restricted Eating (e.g., 12:12, 14:10)
   • Pros: Gentler on the body and easier to sustain.
   • Cons: Works best only if toxins and the quality of food are addressed alongside fasting.

Why Intermittent Fasting Alone Isn’t Working

Many people come to fasting hoping it will detox their bodies, help them lose weight, and make them feel better overall. But here’s the truth: fasting alone doesn’t address the root causes of chronic pain, inflammation, or weight issues. If you’re dealing with underlying toxins like heavy metals, parasites, and chemicals, fasting might make things worse before they get better.

When toxins build up, they create inflammation, causing symptoms like pain, fatigue, and stubborn weight gain. Without addressing these underlying issues, fasting can feel like a temporary solution that leaves you cycling back to the same struggles.

If you’re ready to address the root causes and start fasting in a way that actually benefits your body, I invite you to join our Renew & Revive: 12-Week Weight Loss Challenge starting on January 4th, 2025. This program is designed to support women dealing with chronic pain and weight issues by focusing on the root causes and using fasting as a healing tool. Save $60 when you register before December 10th, 2024!

The Key to Success: Addressing the Root Causes

To truly benefit from fasting, it’s crucial to look beyond the timing of your meals. Think of intermittent fasting as a tool in your toolbox—effective, but only when used alongside other healing strategies. Here are some steps that can support your fasting journey:

1. Tackle Toxins First: Address the root causes of inflammation by eliminating toxins like fungus, bacteria, and heavy metals from your body.
2. Focus on Nutrient Density: Make sure your meals are packed with nutrients that support healing. Think fresh veggies, clean proteins, and anti-inflammatory foods.
3. Listen to Your Body: If fasting is making you feel worse, that’s your body’s way of telling you to adjust. Not all fasting methods are right for everyone, and that’s okay.
4. Seek Professional Guidance: Healing from chronic issues is a journey, and having support can make all the difference. A practitioner can help you customize fasting to your body’s needs and monitor your progress.
5. Doing it on Your Own: We offer a variety of highly-effective cleanses to help you tackle the root of your health issues. You can check out our store, plus save 10% off your first order with code FIRST10.

Common Fasting Myths Busted

Let’s clear up some misconceptions about fasting that might be holding you back:

• Myth 1: Longer fasting periods mean more weight loss. Long fasts can increase stress hormones, worsening inflammation.
• Myth 2: Losing weight will solve everything. Weight loss is only one piece of the puzzle. Without addressing toxins, weight loss alone won’t necessarily ease your pain or fatigue.
• Myth 3: Fasting alone will detox my body. While fasting can support detox, it doesn’t address toxins on a deeper level.

My Solution: A Holistic Approach to Fasting and Healing

When I first started using fasting as a tool, I quickly learned it needed to be part of a broader approach. To support my clients, I created a program that combines intermittent fasting with a personalized, holistic approach focused on removing toxins, improving nutrition, and providing ongoing support and accountability. This has allowed them to finally experience the benefits of fasting—without the frustration or setbacks.

That’s exactly what you’ll find in my Renew & Revive: 12-Week Weight Loss Challenge, starting January 4th, 2025. This isn’t just a fasting program; it’s a complete, supportive journey designed to address the root causes of chronic pain and weight issues. You’ll get guidance, accountability, and a customized approach to help you finally see the results you’re looking for. Register before December 10th, 2024, to save $60!

Ready to Get Started?

Intermittent fasting can be a game-changer when done right. By shifting your focus from quick-fix solutions to a more personalized approach, you can make fasting work for you—not against you. Take the first step towards true healing, and join us in Renew & Revive: 12-Week Weight Loss Challenge to experience fasting in a whole new way.

Are you ready to see what a holistic approach to fasting can do for your health? Sign up today and save $60 if you register before December 10th!