The catalyst for my going on this diet stemmed from the fact that I went to the Doctor to have a yearly blood test. This test revealed that I was a border line diabetic. This was a real wake up call. I have always exercised. I walk at least 30 minutes every day and play and hours tennis on Sundays. I also garden regularly. Obviously this wasn't enough as I was overweight and would pay a dire penalty if I did not do something.
I told my doctor that I was going to try the 5:2 intermittent fasting diet. He scoffed that he didn't believe in diets. Well I had to do something and obviously I wasn't going to get any help from him.
For your information if you haven't seen the above documentary the diet is very simple and goes like this.
For TWO NON-CONSECUTIVE days you fast. For women you are allowed 500 calories, for men it is 600 calories, in one meal of the day. This can be any meal. You can drink as much water you like. The other five days are called feasting days. That is you can eat your normal diet.
I fast on a Saturday and a Monday. I started my fast on the 29th April 2013 and to date I have lost about 8 kilos.
I had my blood tested after 3 months on the diet and all the results were normal. I was overjoyed. I had lost weight and put my body back in balance. I intend to have another test in December to make sure everything is still on track.
The theory is that when you fast the body uses stored energy - when you feast it stores it. You are actually changing the chemistry of your body. (I think).
Whatever the reason it works. I don't pretend that fasting is easy. There are times in the day that I feel very hungry. I just drink a glass of water and think that the hunger pangs are doing me good.
On my feast days I don't eat more than I did before - If anything I eat less. I have stopped buying sugary treats. If I want something sweet I make my own biscuits and have just one with a cup of tea.
I have started this blog so that if there are any other 5.2 dieters out there this can be a rallying point to support each other. If contemplating this diet - then I am happy to support you. Share what we eat on fast days - and celebrate our successes. If you are committed you will succeed and it really isn't that hard if only 2 days of your life a week are disciplined. You will reach your goal. Below are before and after photos - 6 months apart.
Please let me know how you are going.
