INTERMITTENT FASTING Meaning and
Definition
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Intermittent fasting is a pattern of eating that involves alternating periods of fasting with periods of eating. It is a dietary practice where individuals regulate their meal timings within specific windows, as opposed to restricting the kinds of food consumed.
The concept of intermittent fasting revolves around deliberately extending the time between meals, allowing the body to experience periods of fasting. Typically, this involves a cycle of fasting for a set number of hours (usually 16-24 hours) and then having a designated eating window where individuals consume their daily caloric intake. This eating window might vary depending on personal preferences but often spans from 4 to 8 hours.
The primary objective of intermittent fasting revolves around optimizing the body’s metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and hormone regulation. It can result in various health benefits such as weight loss, improved brain function, reduced inflammation, and increased cellular repair. By restricting the time available for eating, intermittent fasting aims to establish a balance between periods of eating and fasting, thereby promoting a healthier lifestyle.
It is important to note that intermittent fasting is not a specific diet plan but rather an eating pattern that can be implemented with different dietary approaches, such as keto, paleo, or vegetarianism. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before embarking on any fasting regimen to ensure it aligns with individual health conditions and needs.
Etymology of INTERMITTENT FASTING
The word "intermittent" comes from the Latin word "intermittens", which is the present participle of "intermittere". "Inter" means "between" or "among", and "mittere" means "to send" or "release". So, "intermittent" originally referred to something that occurs between or in the intervals of something else.
The word "fasting" has its roots in Old English and Old Norse languages. In Old English, it was "fæstan" and in Old Norse, it was "fasta". Both of these words related to the act of abstaining from food or drink for a specific period.
When combined, "intermittent fasting" refers to the practice of alternating periods of eating and fasting, or going without food or calorie-containing beverages for a designated time.
