TULSA — Did you or someone you know resolve to lose some weight in the new year?
If so, you've probably heard about fasting diets.
Jim Steg is a fanatic about fitness and fasting.
"I can tell you I found something that works," Steg said.
Jim started fasting about a year ago -- and says his results -- are life-changing.
"When I intermittent fast, I'm wide awake and when I want to go to sleep, I want to go to sleep," Steg said. "After I get up and I'm on fire all day."
Jim typically never eats breakfast -- saving the majority of his food intake for later in the day.
And once a month -- he does a three day fast.
Three days of no food.
"It is a game and you have to tell yourself no I'm not going to eat," Steg said. "I'm doing this for a reason because it's bettering my health."
Naturopathic doctor Laura Glenn says fasting isn't for everyone, but her patients who follow the plan -- do very well.
"This is for people who are looking to improve their blood sugar and lose a little bit of weight," Dr. Glenn said. "You're trying to switch the body into burning fat for fuel instead of just relying on the foods your intaking over the course of the day."
Dr. Glenn advises time restricted fasts for beginners -- like the eight-hour diet for example.
Pick any eight hours of the day to eat -- then fast for the remaining sixteen.
"Really with intermittent fasting, it's not about calorie reduction," Dr. Glenn said. "You know some people do, not always, but a lot of people are still eating the same number of calories, it's just compressed into a smaller time span."
A weight loss tactic, sure, but for people like Jim -- fasting is a mental tool -- which helps increase focus, preventing disease, and bettering overall health.
"I feel great at 52 years old," Steg said. "But I feel like right now I'm at the beginning of my life cycle."
It's important to remember intermittent fasting is not a miracle weight loss tool.
It's also a good idea to check with your doctor before starting any diet.
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