All about 5:2 diet trend
The popularity of intermittent fasting has picked up the pace in the past decade. From celebrities to fitness enthusiasts, everyone swears by the benefits of this popular lifestyle trend which helps to shed kilos and improve overall health. The 5:2 diet is one of the many styles of intermittent fasting that people are adopting to restrict their calories intake and eat better. American television host and comedian Jimmy Kimmel dropped about 11 kilos by following the 5:2 diet. Sherlock actor Benedict Cumberbatch and Twitter's Jack Dorsey also follow this famous eating habit to stay fit and healthy.
What is the 5:2 diet trend?
Fasting has been a part of many cultures for several years. It has gained tremendous popularity in the world of health and fitness recently due to its incredible health benefits. This form of intermittent fasting involves eating regularly 5 days a week and eating very few calories for the remaining 2 days. Unlike other types of intermittent fasting, the 5:2 diet trend does not require you to eat for a set amount of time. The prime objective in this diet trend is to cut down calorie intake to 25 per cent and eat normally for the remaining two days. One can fast on Monday and Thursday and eat normally on other days. The 5 normal days of the 5:2 diet should include healthy foods, rich in minerals and vitamins.
Benefits of following 5:2 fasting method
Intermittent fasting isn't about losing weight. It rather focuses on giving your body time to recover and repair itself. Restricting calories and shedding kilos is just one part of the 5:2 fasting trend. Following this lifestyle habit helps to boost metabolism and burn fat.
Studies suggest that following this fasting method also helps to reduce the risk of diabetes in some people. Taking a break from eating and giving rest to your body's internal function supports the proper functioning of insulin and glucose which in turn reduces insulin sensitivity.
Foods to eat in 5:2 method
In intermittent fasting, you are not required to restrict any kind of food group. The focus is on eating healthy and nutritious foods. The diet should comprise fibre-rich vegetables and fruits, whole grains and healthy fats. Processed foods, refined carbohydrates and excess fats should be completely avoided.
Who should not try the 5:2 method
The 5:2 diet is healthy and is normally safe for everyone. Spacing out the fasting period helps to get enough nutrients to keep the internal function going. This diet is not very restrictive, which makes it a favourable choice for most people. Even then some people must stay steer clear of this diet trend. Restricting calories intake might not be a good idea for people suffering from diabetes. Intermittent fasting is also considered unhealthy for people dealing with eating disorders. Breastfeeding and pregnant women must also avoid it.