'Religious reasons...':Anant Ambani’s fitness trainer reveals why everyone is following intermittent fasting

Intermittent fasting has become one of the most popular diet trends today, followed by celebrities like Nagarjuna, Katrina Kaif, and Ram Kapoor. It involves alternating periods of eating and fasting and has roots in India’s centuries-old religious fasting traditions.

Anant and Nita Ambani’s fitness trainer, Vinod Channa, once explained the concept of intermittent fasting in his blog. He wrote, “Fasting in India has always been a part of religious practices. Intermittent fasting follows a similar concept, where you cycle between eating and fasting periods.”

Intermittent Fasting Methods

Channa highlighted some commonly followed fasting patterns:

• 16/8 Method: Fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window.
• 20/4 Method: Fasting for 20 hours and eating during a 4-hour window.
• 24-Hour Fast: Fasting for a full day once or twice a week.

Why is it gaining popularity?

Channa pointed out several reasons why intermittent fasting has become a hit:

• Shortcut to Weight Loss: Many people look for quick ways to lose weight, and fasting seems like an easy solution.
• Calorie Deficit: Skipping meals during the fasting period reduces overall calorie intake, which helps with fat loss.
• Using Stored Fat for Energy: Some believe fasting forces the body to burn stored fat for energy instead of relying on food.

While intermittent fasting can aid in weight loss and improve appetite control, Channa also warned of risks like overeating, nutritional deficiencies, and mood swings if not done correctly.

Channa’s tips for long-term fitness

Channa recommended intermittent fasting for a short period, such as a few months, especially during times of limited physical activity. For sustainable health, he suggested:

• Balanced Diet: Include quality proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables in your meals.
• Regular Exercise: Combine cardio and strength training. Building muscle increases your metabolism, helping you burn more calories even while resting.

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