Fasting has become a popular trend in dieting and health. You have probably heard a friend or two say: “I am doing intermittent fasting.” This article will discuss why this term needs to be abandoned. I will also offer a more accurate description of all the common fasting protocols.
Fasting is consistent with our evolutionary history. The thrifty gene hypothesis describes how we experienced brief moments of abundant food punctuated by long moments of scarcity. Our bodies adapted to this environmental stimulus and used it to enhance health – growth during abundance with recycling, regeneration, and renewal during scarcity. This cycling back and forth is considered by many experts to be an ideal way to maintain health.
