Eating a healthy breakfast is considered an important part of a balanced diet, and for many people, it’s the first meal of the day. However, recent studies have suggested that not eating breakfast until 11 am, or even later, could add 20 years to your lifespan. This practice is known as intermittent fasting, and it has been gaining popularity in recent years as a way to improve overall health and longevity.
Intermittent fasting is a pattern of eating that involves alternating periods of eating with periods of not eating. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as skipping breakfast and eating all of your meals later in the day or only eating during certain hours of the day. The idea behind intermittent fasting is that it mimics the eating patterns of our ancestors, who were hunter-gatherers and did not have access to food all the time.
Research has shown that intermittent fasting can have a number of health benefits, including weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and a reduction in the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. One of the main benefits of intermittent fasting is that it promotes the production of a protein called FGF21, which is known to increase the lifespan of animals.
Intermittent fasting has also been shown to improve cognitive function, increase energy levels, and improve overall physical performance. This is likely due to the fact that when we fast, our bodies shift into a state of ketosis, in which we burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This can lead to an increase in energy levels and improved mental focus.
While the idea of not eating breakfast until 11 am may seem strange to some, it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some people may find that they feel better eating a small breakfast, while others may feel better eating a larger lunch and dinner.
It’s also important to note that intermittent fasting is not a magic bullet for weight loss or improved health. It should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Additionally, it’s not recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or an eating disorder.
In conclusion, intermittent fasting, specifically not eating breakfast until 11 am could add 20 years to your lifespan. It has been found to have numerous health benefits such as weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and a reduction in the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Additionally, it also improves cognitive function, increases energy levels, and improves overall physical performance. However, it’s important to remember that it should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise and is not recommended for certain individuals.
