Alternate Day Fasting

Definition

Alternate day fasting is an eating pattern that involves fasting every other day and eating normally on non-fasting days.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Alternate day fasting (ADF) is a form of intermittent fasting where individuals alternate between days of complete fasting or significantly reduced calorie intake (typically around 25% of usual intake), and days of unrestricted eating. This pattern aims to improve metabolic health, weight management, and longevity.

Benefits

• Weight loss
• Improved metabolic health
• Reduction in inflammation
• Improved insulin sensitivity
• Potential longevity benefits

Examples

• Fasting completely for 24 hours and then eating normally the next day.
• Consuming a small meal of approximately 500 calories on fasting days and eating without calorie restriction on non-fasting days.

Additional Information

• side effects: Possible side effects include hunger, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating on fasting days. It may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Related Terms

• Intermittent Fasting
• Time-Restricted Feeding
• Caloric Restriction

References

• Alternate-Day Fasting and Chronic Disease Prevention: A Review of Human and Animal Trials
• Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Health, Aging, and Disease