Intermittent Fasting: Facts, Myths & How It Can Support Our Health Journey – Group Talk – Week Commencing 2nd February 2026.
- friendsonajourney2
- Feb 11
- 2 min read

“When you hear intermittent fasting, what’s the first word or feeling that comes up?”
Curious 🤔
Confused 😵💫
Tried it ✔️
Sounds extreme 😬
Love it ❤️
“IF isn’t one thing—and it’s definitely not all-or-nothing.”
What Intermittent Fasting Actually Is
Intermittent fasting is when you eat during set time windows and fast during others. It’s about when you eat—not what foods you eat.
Key clarification
Fasting ≠ starving (a phrase used to distinguish the intentional, controlled practice of going without food for health or spiritual reasons (fasting) from the involuntary, harmful, and chronic lack of nutrition (starvation)). Fasting is a voluntary act; starving is involuntary.
You still eat enough food
Hydration is encouraged (water, black coffee, herbal tea)
“Does IF change what you eat or when you eat?”
Types of Intermittent Fasting
1️⃣ 12:12 (Beginner-Friendly)
12 hours eating / 12 hours fasting
Example: 7am–7pm
✔️ Great starting point
2️⃣ 14:10 or 16:8 (Most Popular)
8–10 hour eating window
Example: 11am–7pm
✔️ Sustainable for many people
3️⃣ 5:2 Method
Eat normally 5 days
2 lower-calorie days
✔️ Flexible but needs planning
4️⃣ Time-Restricted Eating
Consistent daily window
✔️ Supports routine & digestion
“Which of these sounds most realistic for your life right now?”
(No pressure—just awareness)
How IF Can Support Weight Loss & Health
Weight Loss Support
May reduce mindless snacking
Helps some people eat more intentionally
Can support calorie balance without tracking
Metabolic & Health Benefits
Supports insulin sensitivity
May improve blood sugar control
Encourages metabolic flexibility
Some people report:
*Better energy
*Improved digestion
*Mental clarity
Important truth:
IF works because it fits the person—not because it’s magical.
Myth Busting
True or False
1️⃣ “Skipping breakfast ruins your metabolism.”
❌ False
2️⃣ “You can eat anything you want during your eating window.”
❌ False
3️⃣ “IF works better than all other approaches.”
❌ False
4️⃣ “IF isn’t suitable for everyone.”
✅ True
Results depend on sleep, stress, nutrition, movement
IF is a tool, not a rule
Safety & Self-Compassion Check
Who should be cautious or avoid IF?
History of eating disorders
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Certain medical conditions
Anyone feeling increased anxiety around food
“Your body is not a problem to fix—it’s something to work with.”
Reflection
“What’s one thing you learnt—or one question you’re leaving with?”
“Intermittent fasting isn’t about control—it’s about creating space to listen to your body.”
Resource: ChatGPT



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