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Malaika Arora revealed that she does intermittent fasting every alternate day. This eating pattern comes with its set of advantages and drawbacks.
Malaika Arora is one of the fittest celebrities in Bollywood.
Malaika Arora is one of the fittest celebrities in Bollywood. The 51-year-old actor is quite strict when it comes to her fitness regime and her diet. In a latest interview, she talked about how she maintains her physique despite having a hectic schedule.
Speaking to Curly Tales, Malaika Arora mentioned how incorporates intermittent fasting in her fitness regime. She mentions that she fasts with a twist. She said, “I do my intermittent fasting…but I do it every alternate day.” While she did not reveal the reason behind the pattern, this has its own pros and cons and will not give the same result to every individual.
What Is Intermittent Fasting?
Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of eating and fasting. The individual follows either of the four methods. The first method includes fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window. The second method includes eating normally for five days and restricting calories for two days. The third method includes fasting for 24 hours once or twice a week. The last method includes fasting every other day.
What Are The Benefits Of Intermittent Fasting?
- 1. Weight Loss and Fat Loss- This eating pattern helps reduce calorie intake and can increase metabolism due to the fasting periods. It encourages the body to use stored fat for energy, potentially leading to weight loss.
- 2. Improved Insulin Sensitivity- It can reduce insulin levels and increase insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for managing or preventing type 2 diabetes.
- 3. Improved Heart Health- Intermittent fasting has been linked to lower cholesterol levels, reduced blood pressure, and reduced inflammation, all of which support heart health.
- 4. Cellular Repair and Longevity- During fasting, the body initiates autophagy, a process that removes damaged cells and regenerates new ones.
- 5. Reduced Inflammation- It may also help reduce markers of inflammation, which is linked to many chronic diseases.
Dr RR Dutta, HOD, internal medicine, Paras Health Gurugram told Indian Express that intermittent fasting every other day like Malaika can have a plethora of benefits including insulin sensitivity and better metabolic function. Dutta said, “It may also support weight management, reduce inflammation, and improve overall cardiovascular health. It is a little less demanding on the body, which can help you manage your diet and fasting schedules.”
What Are The Drawbacks Of Intermittent Fasting?
- 1. Nutrient Deficiency- Prolonged fasting or inconsistent eating patterns might lead to nutrient deficiencies if one does not carefully plan your meals to include essential vitamins and minerals.
- 2. Overeating during Eating Windows- Some people may overeat during the feeding windows, leading to an intake of excess calories, which could negate the benefits of fasting.
- 3. Potential for Disordered Eating- Intermittent fasting can potentially trigger and encourage unhealthy relationships with food for some individuals.
- 4. Hormonal Imbalances (for women)- For some women, fasting can disrupt menstrual cycles, increase cortisol levels (cortisol), or lead to a decrease in fertility due to a lack of caloric intake.
- 5. Headaches, Fatigue, and Irritability- The initial stages of intermittent fasting can cause side effects like headaches, fatigue, and irritability as the body slowly adapts to a new eating pattern.
