What Intermittent Fasting Means
Intermittent fasting is not about what you eat, but when you eat.
The most well-known methods:
- 16:8: 16 hours fasting, 8 hours eating window.
- 5:2: 5 days eating normally, 2 days with greatly reduced intake.
- Eat-Stop-Eat: Fast for 24 hours 1–2 times per week.
The goal: to regularly give your body breaks so it uses energy differently and regenerates better.
Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
- Stable blood sugar: less cravings and energy crashes.
- Weight regulation: body uses fat reserves more efficiently.
- Cell repair (autophagy): old cells are broken down and renewed.
- Improved concentration: many experience mental clarity during fasting phases.
Challenges
- Getting started: hunger and habits make the first days difficult.
- Social context: breakfast or dinner with family may be skipped.
- Overeating: risk of overcompensating during the eating window.
Tips for Getting Started
- Start with 12:12 (12 hours eating, 12 hours fasting) and increase gradually.
- Drink water, tea, or black coffee during the fasting phase.
- Focus on nutrient-rich meals during the eating window.
- Listen to your body – fasting should relieve, not burden you.
Your Next Step
Intermittent fasting is flexible and can be integrated into almost any daily routine.
The bestforming app supports you with this:
- with fasting timers that give you structure,
- with meal plans that make optimal use of your eating windows,
- with routines that help you stay on track.
Get the app and find out how intermittent fasting can boost your energy and health.