There are those that look at intermittent fasting and declare it off-limits before even giving it a try. Just the thought of going without eating for 12 hours is not something many think they can do. In a world full of constant snacking, it does take a bit of commitment. However, it doesn’t have to be overly difficult as well. With some careful planning, you can beat the hunger and commit 12 hours a day to intermittent fasting and reap all the benefits that come with it.
What Is Hunger?
When looking for the exact definition of a word, even a word such as hunger, it is always best to turn to the dictionary. Hunger is described as “the painful sensation or state of weakness caused by need of food.” If going without food for too long of a period, a person can expect to experience fatigue, shakiness, lack of energy, headaches, cognitive impairment, and just overwhelmingly feel disoriented. The lack of calories, if continued, would eventually bring about a slow death. This would not be a good way to go.
The Difference Between True Hunger and Appetite
The truth of the matter is that many people have not really experienced true hunger. Hunger so intense they would eat just about anything that is edible or even close to it. People often confuse hunger with appetite. True hunger is the body crying out for nourishment where if it does not come soon, there will be dire consequences. Appetite is simply a desire to eat because the person wants to have some pleasure or happiness that comes with a good tasting meal.
Tips to Beat Hunger During Intermittent Fasting
When completing your intermittent fasting cycle of 12 hours or more, you may start to feel hunger pains. Don’t become overly concerned about it as this means you are starting to experience the benefits. In the British Medical Journal, an author determined a person could live without any food whatsoever for 30 to 40 days as long as they are properly hydrated[1]. You will be able to survive 12 hours. But if the hunger pains are becoming a bit too much and your energy level is dragging, here are some tips to beat the hunger.
- Drink plenty of water. It is zero calories, but it will give you the hydration you need.
- Drink a couple cups of black coffee. There are very few calories, but the caffeine will provide you energy and it is a nootropic (smart drug) as well.
- Sleep during a good portion of your intermittent fasting. When you are hungry, you don’t notice it as much when you are dreaming away.
- Experiment with various teas. Not only are they low calorie as well, but they bring with them their own health benefits.
- Get yourself busy and stay busy. For example, read a book, exercise, hang out with friends, clean, immerse yourself in work, and do all of your household chores.
- Chew on gum. But make sure it is sugarless!
It Is Very Doable
Intermittent fasting can bring on health benefits such as increased growth hormone, fat burning, weight loss, a healthy heart, and can be good for brain health as well. Start a routine and you may be surprised at just how much better you feel[2].
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References
- How to Do Intermittent Fasting Based on a Shift Work Schedule
- Do Nuts Break a Fast and a List of Nuts on Calories
- 5 Steps Starter Pack to Combine Mindful Eating with Intermittent Fasting
- Mindful eating
- Warrior Diet
