Including cinnamon in one’s meal helps to reduce the sugar spike. Berberine, ALA, chromium, jamun and bitter herbs like neem are also great natural options for managing blood sugar levels during intermittent fasting
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Beyond fasting restrictions, it's time to delve into supplements that can be consumed to promote functional energy and aid weight loss. Before we dive into the realm of food supplements, let's decode the mechanisms of fasting.
Mumbai-based dietician Manisha Patil tells Midday that during an intermittent fast – the body undergoes a series of metabolic and hormonal changes to adapt to the fasting state. Initially, as glucose levels decline after the last meal, the body shifts from using glucose as its primary energy source to breaking down glycogen stored in the liver and muscles.
“Once glycogen reserves are depleted, typically after 8-12 hours, the body enters a state of ketosis, where it begins to burn stored fat for energy, producing ketones as a byproduct. This metabolic shift is accompanied by changes in hormone levels, including increased release of norepinephrine and growth hormone, which promote fat breakdown and muscle preservation,” reveals Patil.
Additionally, insulin levels decrease, allowing for better insulin sensitivity and improved blood sugar regulation. Over time, intermittent fasting has been associated with various health benefits, including weight loss and improved metabolic health. So, the question arises – what should one eat while partaking in an intermittent fast?