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{{label}}Staff Writer - 1.5 min read
05 December 2019
You asked, we answered
A lot of my friends swear by intermittent fasting – and they seem to be getting some great results. I’m interested in trialling it myself, but I’m curious as to whether there are any health risks associated with prolonged fasting? – Dan, Tas
There certainly are health risks associated with prolonged fasting, and – as a dietitian and nutritionist – it’s not something I recommend very often.
However, as one person’s meat can be another’s poison, calorie restriction methods like intermittent fasting can suit certain people. Weight loss can be achieved by creating an energy deficit – by eating less over spaced out periods – but this strategy is only ideal for overweight and obese individuals.
Anyone deciding to intermittently fast does so at the risk of developing a nutrient deficiency. Which, of course, can lead to a host of serious health problems, ranging from anaemia to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Skipping meals and severely limiting calories is particularly contraindicated for people who are pregnant, diabetic or taking regular medication that requires food.
As you’d probably expect, the practice of intermittent fasting goes a long way back. The simple process of pushing out the time between meals dates back to at least the seventh century, when Muslim people first began practicing the holy tradition of Ramadan, and possibly even before then. From my experience, it's only been over the last few years that people have started using intermittent fasting as a dieting technique.
If you are considering intermittent fasting, it’s important that you discuss it with your doctor first to determine whether you meet the criteria. If you do, the appropriate style of fasting –including the popular 16:8 method – then depends on your lifestyle and level of activity.
Glenn Harry, accredited practicing dietitian and nutritionist at Spectrum Nutrition and Dietetics
Before you commit to an intermittent fasting diet, speak with your doctor and ensure that you meet the criteria.
Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances
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The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.
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