Will I Gain Weight After Stopping Intermittent Fasting?
If you are considering stopping intermittent fasting, you’re probably wondering, “Will I gain weight if I stop intermittent fasting?” The answer is that it depends on how you handle the transition. It’s true that quitting intermittent fasting can lead to digestive issues and may even result in weight gain. But, with the right strategy, you can make the transition without gaining weight.
What Causes Post-IF Weight Gain?
Intermittent fasting is a popular weight loss tool because it helps reduce calorie intake and jumpstart metabolism. But, what happens when you stop? Oftentimes, people stop intermittent fasting and begin to overeat. This causes a sudden influx of calories, resulting in weight gain. If you’ve ever done a diet and then gained the weight back, this is likely the reason why.
When you diet or restrict, your body goes into “famine mode” and begins to conserve energy. This means that when you stop intermittent fasting and begin to eat more, your body has a harder time burning calories and processing food. This can lead to weight gain, even if you’re eating the same amount of food you ate before.
How to Avoid Weight Gain After Stopping Intermittent Fasting
To avoid gaining weight after stopping intermittent fasting, it’s important to be mindful of your eating habits. Here are some tips to help you make the transition without gaining weight:
- Start by increasing your calorie intake slowly. This will give your body a chance to adjust to the new diet.
- Continue to eat healthy meals and snacks. Avoid processed and sugary foods.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
- Be mindful of portion sizes and eat only when you’re hungry.
- Exercise regularly to help maintain your weight.
The Bottom Line
The truth is, you will likely gain some weight when you stop intermittent fasting. But, with the right strategy, you can make the transition without gaining too much weight. It’s important to increase your calorie intake gradually, eat healthy meals and snacks, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly. With these tips, you can make the transition without putting on too much weight.
What steps should I take to keep my weight stable after discontinuing intermittent fasting?
When you return to eating three or four smaller meals per day, make sure to include plenty of protein-rich foods in your diet. This will help you prevent overeating and maintain control over your eating habits, even after you stop fasting.
What are the consequences of discontinuing intermittent fasting?
Once you stop fasting, your body’s metabolism will go back to its normal rate. If your metabolism had been sped up due to intermittent fasting, it could slow down, potentially leading to weight gain.
Does the weight come back after fasting?
Levitsky stated that people tend to regain weight after fasting or dieting due to their lowered metabolic rate. He explained that when someone weighs less, their metabolism slows down, so when they resume their regular eating habits, the weight comes back.
What is the duration of time needed for intermittent fasting to restart the body’s metabolic rate?
Studies suggest that intermittent fasting is more beneficial than other dieting plans, as after 8-12 hours of abstaining from food, the body’s metabolism shifts to using ketones as an energy source rather than glucose.
If you want to learn more about Intermittent Fasting and how to start, try Fasting Books. They offer a wide range of books that will guide you through your journey, including “The Ultimate Guide to Intermittent Fasting.” Start your journey today with Fasting Books.
