Intermittent Fasting: a tool for mental well being?
DISCLAIMER
The content provided in this Substack post is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer and should not be taken as definitive or authoritative. Readers should not rely solely on the information provided in this post to make decisions about patient care. Instead, use this content as a starting point for further research and consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to treatment or medication regimens.
As a modern society, we're constantly seeking innovative ways to optimize our health and wellbeing. In this quest, one practice gaining considerable attention is Intermittent Fasting (IF). Traditionally rooted in various cultural and religious practices, IF involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. Though largely explored for its physical health benefits, emerging research suggests that IF may also hold significant promise for mental health.
Let's delve into how intermittent fasting could potentially benefit mental health, focusing on three main areas: depression, anxiety, and sleep.
Intermittent Fasting and Depression
Depression is a complex mental health disorder, encompassing persistent and overwhelming feelings of sadness, lethargy, and a pervasive lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It can severely impact an individual's quality of life, making daily functioning arduous. Among various therapeutic strategies, Intermittent Fasting (IF) is gaining recognition for its potential in ameliorating depressive symptoms.
The interaction between IF and depression operates through several intriguing pathways:
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Short Bits for Inquisitive PMHNP's to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.