18:6 is a method of time-restricted eating where you fast for 18 hours and then limit all of your calories to the remaining 6 hours of the day. If you’re wondering how to get started with this type of intermittent fasting, this article will provide you with all the information you need.
How to Start with 18/6 Intermittent Fasting
According to Saeed, a leading expert in intermittent fasting, the best way to start is by following the 14/10 plan for two weeks. You should have breakfast, lunch and dinner between 8 am and 5 pm. Then, you should switch to 16/8 and stick to this for a few weeks. Finally, you can move on to the 18/6 plan.
If you’re a beginner, Saeed recommends first starting out with a 12-hour fasting window. This should be followed by gradually achieving 14 and 16 hours before making your way to 18 hours. With 18:6 intermittent fasting, you might wait until noon to have your first meal of the day and then finish your last meal by 6 PM.
How to Time the 18/6 Fast
In general, you want to align the fasting and eating periods with your body’s natural circadian rhythms. This means that if you prefer to eat earlier in the morning, then you need to start your fast earlier in the evening.
During the fasting hours, make sure you drink plenty of water. This will help keep your energy levels up and help you to stay hydrated. You can also drink coffee, tea and other calorie-free beverages during the fasting period.
It’s also important to ensure that you don’t overeat during the eating period. Eating too much can increase your risk of weight gain, which defeats the purpose of intermittent fasting.
Finally, it’s important to ensure that you get enough sleep. Getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night will help your body to recover and will improve your overall health.
Benefits of 18/6 Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting has many potential benefits, including weight loss, improved digestion, and improved mental clarity. Additionally, it may help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health. The 18/6 method of intermittent fasting can also help to regulate your blood sugar levels.
Intermittent fasting has also been shown to increase levels of human growth hormone, which can help to build muscle and improve your overall health. Additionally, it may help to improve your overall energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Tips for Success with 18/6 Intermittent Fasting
The key to success with 18/6 intermittent fasting is to stick to it. Make sure you stay consistent and don’t skip days. Additionally, make sure you get enough sleep and exercise, and try to eat healthy meals during your eating window.
It’s also important to ensure that you don’t get too hungry during the fasting period. If you find yourself getting too hungry, you can try drinking more water or having a small snack, such as a piece of fruit. Additionally, make sure you don’t overeat during the eating period.
Finally, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or are struggling to stick to the 18/6 plan, you can always try a different intermittent fasting plan. For example, you could try the 16/8 plan or the 12/12 plan. It’s important to find the plan that works best for you.
Conclusion
18/6 intermittent fasting can be a great way to lose weight, improve your overall health, and regulate your blood sugar levels. To get the most out of your 18/6 plan, make sure you stay consistent, get enough sleep and exercise, and don’t get too hungry during the fasting period.
When is the most optimal time to practice 18/6 intermittent fasting?
The length of time you choose to fast is up to you and can vary depending on what works best for your lifestyle and schedule. Some people opt to eat from 7 in the morning until 1 in the afternoon, while others find it easier to eat between 2 pm and 8 pm.
What is the recommended frequency for doing 18/6 intermittent fasting?
The seven days of the week are divided into five days for eating and two days for fasting. While fasting for the full 24 hours is not easy, women are advised to limit their calorie intake to a maximum of 500 calories and men to 600 calories on their two fasting days.
How effective is 18 6 intermittent fasting after a certain amount of time?
18:6 fasting is a more rigorous form of intermittent fasting than other types, and thus may produce greater and longer-lasting results. Research has shown that individuals utilizing this fasting technique can lose up to 9 pounds in a period of 12 weeks.
Would it be acceptable to go without eating for 18 hours each day?
Research has indicated that those who engage in prolonged fasting of more than 16 or 18 hours daily are more prone to developing gallstones and may require surgical removal of the gallbladder. However, fasting for 12 hours and consuming food for the remaining 12 hours is considered to be safe for most people, according to Longo.
Promoted: Recommended Fasting Books
If you are interested in learning more about intermittent fasting, Fasting Books has a wide selection of books on the subject. Click here to browse our collection and find the perfect book to guide you on your fasting journey.
