The pros and cons of intermittent fasting, as Jane Seymour swears by the diet
Intermittent fasting is a favourite diet among many celebrities, including Jane Seymour, she has revealed in a new interview.
She told Hello! Magazine that she sticks to eating a Mediterranean diet and fasting in order to maintain her body. Seymour, 72, said: "I do intermittent fasting unless I have to work very early in the morning on a film and I feel I need the extra energy. I generally give my body 16 hours minimum to recoup.
"I think it works brilliantly," she added - however, Seymour said she isn’t rigid about keeping on top of the diet all the time. "I’ve seen it work for me, but I’m not religious about it. If I’m going out for a glorious dinner, everything gets thrown out the window."
Intermittent fasting involves designating a window of time during which you eat normally, and not eating for the rest of the day. The most common version of the diet usually has participants eating within an eight-hour period and fasting for the rest of the 16 hours of the day (known as the 16:8 diet).
Apart from Seymour, celebrities including Jennifer Aniston, Chris Pratt, Benedict Cumberbatch, and more. We spoke to qualified nutritionist and health coach Lara Buckle, of the Wellness Detective, about the science behind intermittent fasting and the pros and cons of this hugely popular diet are.
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Does intermittent fasting actually work?
Buckle says that the diet can be effective for many people. "The science behind it revolves around changes in insulin levels, metabolic processes, and calorie consumption," she explains.
"During fasting, insulin levels drop, and the body starts using stored fat for energy. This can lead to weight loss and improvements in various health markers. Research has also suggested that intermittent fasting may have potential benefits for longevity and brain health, although more studies are needed."
A study published in June found that intermittent fasting can not just help people lose weight, but keep it off over the course of a year. The results, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, show the diet is more effective at helping people maintain their weight loss, unlike many fad diets that often see people losing weight but being unable to keep it off.
However, it may not be appropriate or effective for everyone. Buckle recommends speaking to a healthcare professional before considering trying intermittent fasting, particularly if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking certain medications.
"Intermittent fasting may not be suitable for everyone, and personalised advice is essential," she says.
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Pros of intermittent fasting
1. Weight loss
Intermittent fasting can help with weight loss by reducing calorie intake and increasing fat metabolism.
2. Simplicity
It’s relatively simple to follow; no specific foods are restricted and it doesn’t require elaborate meal planning.
3. Potential health benefits
Some studies suggest it may improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.
Cons of intermittent fasting
1. Hunger and irritability
Fasting periods can lead to hunger and irritability, making it challenging for some people to stick with.
2. Social challenges
Fasting can disrupt social interactions, making it difficult to participate in regular mealtime gatherings.
3. Not suitable for everyone
It may not be safe for individuals for certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of eating disorders.
What should you consider before trying intermittent fasting?
If you’re curious about intermittent fasting, Buckle recommends thinking about the following:
1. Nutritional needs
Ensure you can meet your daily nutritional requirements during eating windows. Focus on nutrient-dense foods to avoid deficiencies.
2. Sustainability
Consider if this eating pattern is sustainable for your lifestyle. Some people may find it more challenging to adhere to in the long term.
3. Social implications
Be aware of the potential social challenges and how fasting may affect your daily routine and relationships.
4. Start gradually
If you decide to try intermittent fasting, it’s often advisable to start gradually and find a fasting schedule that works for you, such as the 16:8 method.
Watch: Looking to try intermittent fasting? There's an optimal way to do it, researchers say. Here's how:
