Il intermittent fasting is a increasingly common practice among sportsmen and athletes, also in the world of CrossFit®. The reason for all this interest is to be found especially in the physical and mental benefits which it brings. In this article we will examine the pros and cons of this form of fasting. Follow us in reading.
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What is intermittent fasting?
Intermittent fasting is a practice that imitates the lifestyle of the man of the past, who, having no access to food at any time of the day (as happens today), also remained without eating for quite long periods.
There are various forms of intermittent fasting, more or less radical. There are those who fast for fairly long time intervals (24-30 hours), who instead is limited to shorter periods (5-16 hours). There is no general rule and the duration and methods of fasting depend on many factors: pre-established objectives, physical fitness, individual tolerance, etc.
Some find themselves very well skipping for example a meal of the day (eg breakfast), others instead practice a full day of fasting 2-3 times a month. Still others go further, following periods of alternation, or one day they eat normally, while the next day is fasted (or a regime of strong caloric restriction is followed).
The advantages of intermittent fasting
More and more studies are showing how, during fasting phases in the body, there are some metabolic changes which translate into numerous therapeutic benefits. Between these:
- a strengthening of the immune system.
- An increase in energy levels.
- A reduction in the levels of LDL cholesterol (so-called bad cholesterol) and gods triglycerides.
- A reduction of some markers of inflammation (including PCR and TNF) and oxidative stress.
- An improvement of the glucose control.
- A reduction of the blood pressure.
- An improvement of the lucidity and concentration.
- A reduction of excess fats (with minimal impact on lean mass).
- An increase of sexual desire.
How can CrossFitter practice intermittent fasting?
In general the answer is YES. However, however healthy this form of fasting may be contraindications. It should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation and in people suffering from thyroid problems or other chronic diseases such as diabetes.
Our advice is also to have a specialist follow you if you want to try this practice. We also suggest proceeding by step, gradually increasing the duration of fasting and constantly keeping track of your body's reactions. A good rule of thumb is to make the experiments coincide during the rest days. Furthermore, water must never be lacking: during intermittent fasting the body must always be regularly hydrated.