Intermittent Fasting: Is It Right for You? A Functional Medicine Perspective
Intermittent fasting (IF) has taken the wellness world by storm. From weight loss to improved energy and digestion, the promises are appealing, but is it really right for you?
At Solutions Functional Medicine Centre, we believe there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Especially for women navigating hormone shifts, chronic fatigue, or thyroid imbalances, fasting can sometimes do more harm than good.
Let’s explore the benefits, the risks, and how to know if intermittent fasting supports your health goals, or if it’s time to take a gentler, more personalized approach.
1. The Basics: What is Intermittent Fasting?
Intermittent fasting refers to a cycle between periods of eating and fasting. Common methods include the 16:8 approach (fasting for 16 hours, eating during an 8-hour window), alternate-day fasting, or even longer fasts under supervision.
It’s not a diet, but a pattern of eating, and while it works well for some, others may see symptoms worsen.
2. The Potential Benefits of IF
When done appropriately and safely, IF may offer:
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Improved blood sugar control
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Reduced inflammation
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Cellular repair and detox support
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Possible weight management benefits
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Mental clarity and focus
3. When IF Might Backfire (Especially for Women)
Here’s where things get tricky. For women, especially those already under stress or with hormone imbalances, fasting can:
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Increase cortisol (stress hormone)
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Disrupt thyroid function
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Worsen fatigue or brain fog
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Contribute to blood sugar crashes
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Trigger binge/restrict patterns
If your body is already in “survival mode,” restricting food can feel like another stressor. That’s why personalization is key.
4. What to Consider Before Trying IF
Before jumping in, ask yourself:
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Am I waking up already tired, dizzy, or lightheaded?
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Do I skip meals often and struggle with blood sugar dips?
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Is my menstrual cycle irregular, painful, or absent?
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Am I currently under a lot of physical or emotional stress?
If any of these apply, fasting may not be the best next step — or it might need to be done more gently, with professional guidance.
5. Our Approach at Solutions FMC
We help patients understand how their metabolism, hormones, thyroid, and gut health all work together — so fasting isn’t a shot in the dark.
Sometimes we recommend it (when the body is ready). Sometimes we don’t. Either way, the goal is to support healing from the inside out.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re curious about fasting but not sure it’s right for your body, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about it.
We’ll help you sort through the noise and tune in to what your body needs right now — whether that’s strategic fasting or simply more nourishment and rhythm.
Book a Discovery Consult today to get started with a personalized plan!
