The Health Benefits of Intermittent Fasting: What You Need to Know

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has recently disclosed his adherence to a unique practice aimed at maintaining a “balanced lifestyle” – fasting for 36 hours every week. This routine commences at 5 pm on Sundays and concludes at 5 am on Tuesdays, during which time he restricts himself to consuming only water, tea, or black coffee.

Intermittent fasting, as the dietary practice is known, involves alternating cycles of eating and fasting. It can take various forms, such as the 16:8 method, where one consumes food within an eight-hour window and fasts for the remaining 16 hours, or more extended fasts that can last up to 72 hours.

Research has begun to reveal the potential health benefits of intermittent fasting. Studies have suggested that this practice can lead to weight loss, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers, and enhance the body’s resistance to oxidative stress and inflammation.

According to dietitian Dnyaneshwari Barve of DPU Private Super Specialty Hospital, Pune, fasting impacts immune functions at the restorative level. A 2023 study by researchers from King’s College London also revealed that a 10-hour intermittent fast is linked to increased energy levels and improved mood and hunger.

However, experts caution that intermittent fasting is not without its drawbacks and may not be suitable for everyone. Some individuals may experience side effects such as hunger, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Children and those with a history of eating disorders should seek advice from a medical professional before embarking on an intermittent fasting regimen.

Rishi Sunak’s commitment to intermittent fasting is part of his strategy to achieve a balanced lifestyle, complementing his dedication to physical fitness. He often commences his day with a workout on his Peloton bike, which underscores his overall commitment to personal health and well-being.

In an interview with the BBC, Sunak emphasised the role of intermittent fasting in maintaining a balanced lifestyle, acknowledging that individual practices may vary. The British Prime Minister’s acquaintances informed the Sunday Times about his fasting ritual and its schedule, but also noted that this diet permits Sunak to indulge in his “weakness for sugary things” during the rest of the week.

Beyond its association with weight loss and disease risk reduction, intermittent fasting may promote restorative and immune functions. However, it is crucial to approach such dietary practices cautiously, taking into account individual health conditions and seeking professional advice where necessary.