My plan for weight loss and health is intermittent fasting (IF) where I have an eating window from 5:30 pm-9:30 pm (flexible time frame), and then I fast from 9:30 pm through 5:30 pm the next day. It's called a 20/4 fast. 20 hours fasting, 4 hour eating window.
I have an app on my phone (Android) called Zero, and it helps me keep track.
Many IFers have said that when they fast, they get COLD. Oh that I might feel cold!!!! Starting any program or eating protocol has a very difficult adjust period. I always feel hungry as I try to adjust to less food and not giving into my desire to eat. Enter the mind games a.k.a motivation.
I have been dabbling in IF for months now. The reason for the dabble is that I have been breastfeeding my baby. She is now 10 months old, but I have typically nursed my babies for over a year. All experts agree (even those who are pro-IF) that one should not fast when nursing a baby. So it's been a slow start for me. Sometimes I've skipped breakfast and then opened an eating window around 11:00, 12:00, or 1:00. I feel hungry so I give in. Months ago, I was very concerned about my supply when pumping at work. But I haven't pumped in over two months due to Coronavirus quarantine, and summer is on the horizon, and the baby has been eating solid foods. I'm still nursing Baby to sleep at least 3 times per day plus a few additional nursing sessions so she is hydrated.
So I'm still nursing, and I have no way to know if it will make fasting an uphill battle - does the nursing I'm doing now make me hungrier than I would be otherwise? Even so, I don't want to delay my quest for health any longer. I am 100% convinced that IF is a healthy and sustainable lifestyle for me. I just need to jump in with two feet and get through that challenging adjustment period.
Where am I getting my information on IF? I suggest you read The Obesity Code by Dr. Jason Fung and Delay, Don't Deny by Gin Stephens. The former is highly scientific. The latter is highly practical, often referencing the former among other sources. I've joined the Delay, Don't Deny facebook group and listen to Gin Stephens' podcast where she interviews those who have found success with fasting or One Meal A Day (OMAD).
I have GOT to take before pictures, get my weight, and take some measurements. We put our scale in storage because we are in the process of selling our house (we hope!), so that is a challenge. I'm sure I've gained in quarantine, but my last known weight was about 335. Yes (cringe!) you read that right. I'm about 5'7 1/2"
So it's about 12:00 noon right now, and I'm getting hungry. I've been fasting for only 14 1/2 hours, and I have 5 1/2 hours to go. It's hot outside, and I need to dig deep to stay strong.
Let's Get Cold! Every time I feel hot, I will remember I'm try to gt cold!
Peace out.
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