WHAT I EAT IN A DAY - INTERMITTENT FASTING

Hey everyone! Building on my daily food diary, I wanted to dive a bit deeper into why incorporating high protein is an absolute game-changer for intermittent fasting, especially if you're aiming for fat loss. I've found that focusing on protein isn't just about hitting macros; it's about feeling truly satisfied and keeping those pesky hunger pangs at bay during my fasting window and beyond. For me, a simple fasting plan like 16:8 works perfectly with my busy life, allowing me to easily stay in a calorie deficit without feeling deprived. Let's talk protein shakes! They're a staple for me, especially when I'm breaking my fast or need a quick, nutritious boost. My chocolate protein shake is a go-to – I often blend it with a bit of ice, unsweetened almond milk, and sometimes even a handful of spinach (you won't taste it!). The protein shake in glass on kitchen counter is often my breakfast, super quick to prepare. I've experimented with different ways to make them delicious, even topping them with a little whipped cream and cinnamon for a treat. For a more indulgent feel, I've even made vegan protein ice cream at home, which is fantastic for satisfying sweet cravings while keeping it high protein. Beyond shakes, my meals are packed with protein. You saw my scrambled egg whites with spinach alongside turkey bacon and an English muffin topped with sugar-free jelly. That's a classic power-packed start to my eating window! For snacks, an Oikos yogurt topped with sliced strawberries is a refreshing, protein-rich choice. And for lunch or dinner, I love making tacos – usually with lean ground turkey or chicken, loaded with fresh veggies. Even my cold brew coffee with oat milk, hazelnut, and stevia helps me ease into my eating window without feeling deprived. While I stick to 16:8, some people ask about a 17 hour fast or 17/7 fasting. These are just slight variations, extending the fasting window by an hour or so, which can sometimes help if you hit a plateau. The key is finding what works for your body and schedule. One thing to be mindful of is "fake fasting." This often happens when people consume things that technically break their fast but they think are okay. For instance, some flavored waters or 'zero-calorie' drinks can have ingredients that spike insulin. When it comes to intermittent fasting milk, unsweetened plant-based milks in small amounts in coffee usually get a pass for many, but anything with significant calories or sugar will definitely break your fast. Always check labels! And for those chocolate fasting moments, where you just crave something sweet? That's where my chocolate protein shake or a small square of very dark chocolate (once your eating window opens, of course!) comes in handy. It’s all about sustainable habits and finding ways to enjoy your food while reaching your goals.