Intermittent Fasting: What is it, How to do it, Who should do it, and Why?

By Charlie Symonds

What is it?

Today, we are constantly learning about new diets, and new ways to obtain our dream bodies. Although one of the more effective methods for losing weight that is also healthy, is intermittent fasting. Intermittent Fasting is an eating cycle where you switch between eating and fasting. You’re not necessarily watching what you eat, but instead it is about when you eat. People have seen many benefits from intermittent fasting, such as fat loss, better health, and mental clarity.

How to do it

There are multiple types of intermittent fasting, where the periods of time fasting, and eating window differ in time, although the most common one is the 16:8 method. This methodology of intermittent fasting includes fasting for 16 hours from 8pm until 12pm, and then a eating window that falls between 12pm, and 8pm. While still being able to get your daily necessary nutrients, by allowing your body to fast you are eventually causing your body to be unable to rely on glucose for energy, and instead burn fat for fuel.

Who should do it?

The main people that should be doing intermittent fasting are people who are looking to lose fat mass. Although it is not just limited to that group, some people do this method because it gives them a good simple routine where they are not constantly worrying about all of their meals. Others may prefer the feeling of fasting, as some people have said they feel they can focus better like this. Although, intermittent fasting may not be the best option for athletes, and people who are trying to gain serious mass and muscle. For athletes, and for muscle growth, their bodies are constantly being worked and they need toconstantly fuel. Especially during heavy training periods, such as in season, athletes’ muscles are being depleted, and need to be fueled back up. Maybe in the offseason, or during a less intense cycle, athletes and people who are bulking can use this method to lean out, and lose some fat.

Why?

So why should somebody do this as opposed to just working out or taking ozempic. Many people feel better and healthier when using this method as opposed to some of the alternative methods such as medication. It allows one to take control of their diet/hunger, and makes eating simpler. For somebody who has a busy life and wants to lose weight, this method is extremely beneficial as it is healthy, and allows you to keep a consistent diet that isn’t hard at all to keep up with.

Bibliography

McKinnon, David. “Intermittent vs 24-Hour VS 72-Hour Fasting: A Fitness-Focused Guide.” Elite Health and Fitness, 17 Apr. 2025, www.elitefit.co.uk/post/intermittent-vs-24-hour-vs-72-hour-fasting-a-fitness-focused-guide.

Mattson, Mark. “Intermittent Fasting: What Is It, and How Does It Work? | Johns Hopkins Medicine.” John Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/intermittent-fasting-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.

“8 Fat Loss Tips for Men | Airsculpt.” Airsculpt , airsculpt.com/airsculpt-daily/8-fat-loss-tips-curated-for-men/. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.