10 May Gear up for Ramazan: Intermittent Fasting and its Benefits
We’ve known it for centuries in the Muslim world, and recent research has begun to tout the benefits of what the modern world refers to as “intermittent fasting.” This is basically dividing your day between periods of “eating” and “fasting.” Intermittent fasting is scientifically proven to reduce blood insulin levels, promote human growth hormone for muscle gain, and speed up your metabolism. And of course, common sense dictates that eating fewer calories due to your fasting state automatically implies weight loss (just avoid the samosas!).
To add on to that, it just so happens that working out WHILE FASTING has several benefits that maximize those of simply fasting- one prominent one is accelerated fat loss, particularly in stubborn areas. A number of our students complain about stubborn fat on the belly and hips despite losing several inches and making significant progress through their hard work in the fix. Working out while fasting is going to HELP with this elimination of stubborn fat!
When you exercise, your body uses glycogen as fuel. Glycogen is basically carbohydrates from food converted to “stored fuel” which the body packs in your muscles and liver for use during physical activity. In the fasting state, your glycogen levels are depleted and your body quickly resorts to burning stored fat on your body to compensate for the lack of glycogen. This helps you target that STUBBORN FAT. In one British Journal of Nutrition study, men who ran before eating breakfast burned up to 20% more fat than those who fueled up before their run.
Just because Ramazan is right around the corner, doesn’t mean your fat loss goals have to be pushed to the back burner. Stay tuned for what we have for you to help you stay fit, lean and active!