Colette's Blog

What is the Intermittent Fasting Diet?

August 27, 2019

You’ve probably heard of the Intermittent Fasting diet (IF), which means cycling between periods of fasting and eating, with fasts ranging from 16 hours to 24 hours or more. You can learn more about the different types of IF here, but the idea behind the intermittent fasting diet is that it boosts weight loss by lowering your insulin levels so your body releases stored sugar and burns it for fuel.

 Many folks do IF in conjunction with a low carb or keto diet, and even golfer Phil Mickelson took it to the next level by doing a six-day fast, consuming only water and a “wellness” coffee containing almond milk and a little medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, before this year’s British Open. He hit the golf course 15 pounds lighter. 

While I wouldn’t recommend going to the extremes Mickelson did, especially since if you’re already following a low carb or keto diet, your body is already adapted to burning fat for fuel and able to naturally control blood sugar levels, fasting can give your body a reset and your digestion a break. You can do this simply by shutting down the kitchen after dinner (say, 8 p.m.) and not eating again for 12 to 16 hours later, because who hasn’t eaten too late at night, only to feel the ill effects of indigestion, heartburn and interrupted sleep?
When you’re following a low carb diet like Atkins, you’re naturally “cleansing” your system of sugar, refined carbs and overly processed foods, but feel free to give a 12- to 16-hour fast a try if you’d like, and see how it makes you feel.

 

More From Colette

Easter Treats: Celebrating with Low Carb Sweets

Bring on the beginning of brunch season with a selection of low carb sweets perfect for your Easter dessert table, plus a refreshing, lemon-y cocktail. Low Carb Berry Chantilly Cakes A variety of berries add a tangy sweetness to balance layers of rich Chantilly cream and vanilla cake, while colorful edible flowers become a gorgeous

Read More »

Atkins’ Low Carb Guide to Everything Spring!

As the frost thaws, spring is beginning to emerge; this is the chance to renew and rejuvenate your diet and lifestyle. This low carb guide to spring is packed with our favorite tips for making the most of this vibrant season, including fresh, low carb recipes that spotlight spring’s finest vegetables, energizing foods to put

Read More »

Going Green and Lean: A Low Carb St. Patrick’s Day Feast

This St. Patrick’s Day, you can celebrate the luck of the Irish with some culinary delights that may make you feel like you’ve found that pot of gold. You have your pick of traditional main dishes with a low carb twist, emerald-hued drinks and tasty treats. St. Patrick’s Day Entrees This year’s star of the

Read More »