5 People Who Should Never Try Intermittent Fasting, Says a Dietitian

Intermittent fasting has been a weight-loss method many individuals have turned to. It involves an alternating eating and fasting pattern with a goal of weight loss, better metabolic wellness, and reduced inflammation. Some common patterns include fasting for 16 hours and restricting food intake to an eight-hour window. For those in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, intermittent fasting can make it challenging to meet daily protein needs, which can lead to increased muscle loss. This is concerning, as muscle mass already naturally decreases with age. In addition, it can decrease metabolic rate and increase cortisol over time. Women in menopause and perimenopause, those with diabetes, particularly type-1, and individuals taking GLP-1 medication are most likely to experience negative side effects of intermittent fasting. Many individuals, especially those under significant stress or not consuming sufficient calories, may experience setbacks with intermittent fasting, leading to exhaustion, hair loss, and weight loss stalls. Additionally, intermittent fasting can exacerbate obsessive thoughts about food, rebound overeating, and 'black and white thinking' around eating habits. The risks associated with intermittent fasting underscore the importance of individualized nutritional planning and careful consideration of one's health status before adopting this weight-loss method.