24/01/2023
How to break a fast ?
Here are 5 Strategies to break a fast
1. Small Portion Size
Initially to start with a small portion size meal or a snack, so that the body becomes ready to accept and absorb the nutrients. This will also help the digestive juices to be secreted at a stable pace and there wont be a sudden spike in the insulin.
2. Whole foods
Choosing healthy & whole foods is of utmost importance, as this is the time when cells are deprived of nutrition and with depleted glycogen stores it will first hop on and absorb whichever nutrients that are provided first.
This also means if you consume an unhealthy diet with saturated fats along with simple carbs, then the cells are going to definitely absorb fats, which would be counter productive in your fat loss journey. Its essential a balance meal consisting of Protein , Vitamins, Complex carbs and healthy fats.
3. Stay Hydrated
Its Important to stay hydrated during and after the fast too. As during the fast there is a lot of water loss from your body via urine. Hence, to replenish body’s water levels and to help digestion its important to drink enough water.
4. Calorie Tracking
Its important to keep a track of the food that is being consumed while breaking the fast, as its quite possible to over eat out of hunger after an extended 16-18 hours of fast. Its recommended to use a tracker like “My fitness pal” , “HealthifyMe”, “Lose it” or “Fat secret”
5. Protein Consumption
After a fasting cycle its imperative to consume high protein foods, as it will stop the muscle breakdown process known as Muscle Atrophy. Consuming sufficient amount of proteins in the form of Fish, Chicken, Eggs, Nuts, peas, paneer is recommended.
Conclusion :
Its very important to follow the above strategies in your weight loss journey while doing Intermittent fasting. As it can back fire if unhealthy foods, low protein consumption, less water consumption or a very heavy meal is while breaking the fast.