Needless to say, intermediate fasting for weight loss has been known to be super effective. It’s so effective that there are loads of content creators out there and influencers who rave about how effective it is. There are plenty of celebrities and famous personal trainers who say the same. Now, yes, it’s 100% true that it’s really effective; there’s no doubt there!
But eating isn’t hard; even ignoring your grumbling stomach doesn’t have to be hard, either. What’s really hard is ignoring what your mind wants- not your body but your mind itself.
Yes, you read that right; the mental gymnastics required to stick to the schedule can feel like you’re training for the Olympics of willpower. Of course, by all means, you’re bound to feel happier and healthier doing this type of fasting, but again, it’s really challenging, too. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the clock, waiting for the fasting window to close, or battling the temptation to devour that secret stash of chocolate, you’re not alone.
No, you don’t have to feel bad about any of this either, and really, you shouldn’t feel bad. So, with that all said, let’s dive into the mental hurdles of intermittent fasting and how to gracefully leap over them.
The Clock is Not Your Enemy
Alright, so here’s something that really needs to be tackled first, and that’s the concept of the clock. It’s just a construct, a tool we use to structure our day. But when you’re intermittent fasting, it can start to feel like a prison guard. So, the key is to reframe your relationship with time. Instead of thinking, “I can’t eat until noon,” flip it to, “I get to eat at noon.”
This subtle shift from a negative to a positive perspective can make a world of difference. Yes, it sounds way too simple, but it makes you feel like you’re in control again, that you get to make the decision, and that you’re choosing to eat at noon, not that you get to, like it’s a privilege or a reward.
Also, it really helps to just keep busy! Ideally, you should engage in activities that you enjoy or that distract you from the pangs of hunger. It doesn’t matter what you do, like diving into a gripping novel, taking a brisk walk, or even cleaning out that junk drawer you’ve been avoiding; keeping your mind occupied can help the hours fly by.
Start Conquering Cravings with Creativity
What would be the sneakiest saboteurs when it comes to intermittent fasting? Well, that would have to be cravings! You’re sitting there, doing just fine, and then bam! The thought of a cheesy pizza or a decadent slice of cake pops into your head. When it comes to everyone, the feeling usually doesn’t go away until you actually get to indulge in it, right? Well, instead of giving in or battling them head-on, try outsmarting your cravings.
So, what can you do? How easy is it to actually outsmart these cravings? Well, for starters, it’s really going to help you start drinking water, herbal tea, or black coffee. Often, what we perceive as hunger is actually dehydration. It’s fairly surprising, right? If that doesn’t work, try visualisation techniques. This entails imagining eating that food, savouring every bite in your mind. It helps a little bit, but be careful with this because those suffering from ED often use this tactic to stop cravings.
You’ll Have to Start Handling Social Pressures Better
You can absolutely expect that social situations can be the trickiest part of intermittent fasting. Friends and family, however well-meaning, might urge you to “just have a bite” or “live a little.” Politely but firmly stick to your guns. You can say something like, “I’m on this new eating schedule that’s really working for me, and I’m committed to seeing it through.” Yes, it’s really uncomfortable, and sometimes potential drama can start, too, but you really have to stick to your guns on this one.
Dealing with Emotional Eating
Ah, the emotional-eating beast. We’ve all been there. A stressful day at work, an argument with a loved one, or just feeling a bit down can send us straight to the snack cupboard. But with that, all said, recognising this pattern is the first step to overcoming it.
By all means, you’re going to have to find other outlets for your emotions. Exercise, journaling, or even talking to a friend can provide the release you need without the added calories. If you do slip up, don’t beat yourself up. Every day is a new opportunity to start fresh.
