Intermittent fasting, put simply, is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of time without food followed by periods of eating. If you are trying to adapt to this new style of eating, supplements for intermittent fasting can help optimize your health.
There are variations of intermittent fasting, including 16/8 (or time-restricted feeding), alternate-day fasting and fasting a few days out of the month. Benefits of intermittent fasting include weight loss, lowered blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as improved blood sugar levels.
In a University of Alabama study of prediabetic, obese men, it was noted that subjects on an “early time-restricted feeding” plan meant to align with circadian rhythm had lower insulin levels, lower blood pressure and decreased appetite.
Here are two of the best supplements for intermittent fasting to increase energy and replenish vitamins.
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)
BCAAs are a group of essential amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine). We can’t produce essential amino acids on our own, so they must be consumed in the diet and can be found in protein-rich foods such as eggs, meat and dairy.
BCAAs prevent muscles from breaking down by allowing our bodies to use food for energy for a longer amount of time, making it a beneficial supplement for intermittent fasting.
Another benefit of BCAAs is that they reduce muscle soreness after a workout. In fact, a 2009 study found that long-distance runners who took a BCAA supplement experienced less fatigue and muscle soreness fatigue after training.
How to take it:
Evlution Nutrition BCAA Energy (Watermelon flavor)
Take as directed on the product packaging. Add 1-2 scoops to 8-10 ounces of cold water.
A Multivitamin
The Harvard School of Public Health refers to a daily multivitamin as a great nutrition insurance policy for its ability to fill in dietary gaps.
A good multivitamin should contain 100 percent of the recommended daily amounts of key vitamins and essential minerals, including vitamin A, B vitamins, C, D, E, zinc, magnesium and others.
Consuming a healthy diet should provide all of the vitamins and nutrients we need. When we’re intermittent fasting, a good multivitamin supplement can help replenish what we may be lacking.
How to take it:
Take as directed. For a great once daily multivitamin, try MegaFood Multi Tablets, with special formulations for women and men.