The nutritionist declared the harm of intermittent fasting

Intermittent fasting is a popular tool for weight loss and maintaining physical fitness, as well as simply as a lifestyle. However, despite its prevalence, this method does not always have a beneficial effect on the body. On June 27, Tatyana Meshcheryakova, a nutritionist at the Performance Food service, a nutritionist, and an expert in the field of healthy nutrition, told Izvestia why regular meals work better than scheduled starvation.

Firstly, the nutritionist noted that intermittent fasting involves long periods without food, which can lead to a lack of essential nutrients. According to her, the human body needs a constant supply of energy and macronutrients to maintain normal functioning. The lack of food puts the body under stress, resulting in cortisol emissions that prevent the absorption of useful elements when the "window for eating" does occur.

Regular meals also contribute to maintaining stable blood sugar levels, which is especially important to prevent its sudden spikes and subsequent hunger. With intermittent fasting, many people experience sudden fluctuations in glucose levels, which can lead to subsequent overeating during the permitted hours. This, in turn, can negate all weight control efforts.

"Another important aspect is the effect of regular nutrition on metabolism. Frequent meals can help improve metabolism, while intermittent fasting, on the contrary, slows it down. When we eat regularly, our body absorbs food better and uses it for energy," Meshcheryakova explained.

This, she says, also helps to avoid fat accumulation, as the body does not experience stress from lack of food. In addition, regular meals help improve digestion. When a person eats small portions several times a day, the gastrointestinal tract works more efficiently. And this reduces the risk of stomach problems due to heartburn, bloating and other things.

The nutritionist also reminded about the psychological aspect of nutrition. Intermittent fasting can cause anxiety in some people, for example, lead to feelings of guilt and a negative attitude towards food. Regular meals allow us to enjoy food without unnecessary stress and minimize the risk of an eating disorder.

"Choosing the type of food is a responsible step, which should take into account many factors. These include the level of physical activity, daily routine, and general emotional background, as well as the state of health," concluded the nutritionist.

Earlier, on May 4, Mariana Jutova, a nutritionist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia that severe dietary restrictions can lead to serious disorders in the body. Thus, eliminating carbohydrates deprives the body of its main source of energy, which is manifested by weakness, irritability, and even problems with the cardiovascular system and kidneys.