Here’s what it’s crucial that you know, directly from the fasting experts.

What is intermittent fasting?

Fasting is a deliberate and temporary abstention from consuming food and, in some cases,beverages.

Stephanie Eckelkamp

It has been practiced for various reasons, including religious, spiritual, health, and weight management purposes.

During a fasting period, individuals refrain from eating for a certain period of time.

Here’s a primer on thenine most popular types of fasting.

Seema Bonney, MD

“If you’re going to have carbs, ensure that they’rebalanced with proteinand fat.

Portion size matters a bitparticularly when you get into the more intense time-restricted eating plans like18:6or20:4.

Typically, “hefty snack or small meal is best,” says Miller.

The result is often GI discomfort and diarrhea.”

The solution: Ease back into eating.

Also, verify to eat slowly and let your digestive system get to work.

Other than that, most real whole foods are acceptable.

But according to our experts, you may want to avoid anything that requires a lot of digestive energy.

And anything fried or greasy should also be avoided until you get your digestion revving with gentler foods.

Side effects of eating these foods to break your fast can range from discomfort and bloating to diarrhea.

It’s all about the individual, so experiment a bit and see what works for you.

Miller likesEarl Grey teain particular, as it contains bergamot extract, which can help suppress appetite.

“This works great to curb your appetite during prolonged fasting hours.”

Here’s a list of supplements that contain calories, sugar or carbohydrates andmay shorten your fasting window.

Looking for some more pro tips on how to get the most out of your fast?

Here’sa guide to maximizing each of the four stages of fasting.