We’ve probably heard or complained of gaining weight during this pandemic. At least one third of Singaporeans have reported this. Many as a result have recognized this, and have looked for various ways to lose weight - including intermittent fasting.
There has been a surge in popularity with these timing focused dietary approaches. These involve eating patterns that restrict intake by various degrees for a pre-defined period of time.
Some variations include
Complete alternate day fasting
Consumption of 20-25% energy needs on fasting days (eg. alternate days, 2 days out of 7)
Time restricted feeding
What does the evidence show?
Almost any intermittent fasting regimen can result in
Some weight loss
Improvements in multiple health indicators including insulin resistance and reduction in risk factors for heart disease
No significant harm demonstrated
HOWEVER, these studies have been limited to observational studies of limited durations. There is still a need for large scale randomized studies of longer duration (>1 year) to evaluate for efficacy and harm before sound recommendations can be made.
What does it mean?
Intermittent fasting could be a treatment option in conditions like obesity but it is unlikely to be the ‘silver bullet’. A multi-pronged and individualized approach is still needed.
If you are 40 years and above, you should go for regular health screening for chronic diseases including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and hyperlipidemia.
Screen-for-life (SFL) is a government-led initiative to help eligible Singaporeans undergo regular basic health screening through subsidies so they would be less focused on the financial aspect when making the decision to look after their health. The aim is to catch diseases and cancers earlier, which leads to better prognosis and outcome during treatment. This programme only runs in CHAS-approved General Practitioner (GP) clinics, like Intemedical, and does not run in the polyclinics. Permanent Residents do not enjoy the same subsidies that citizens do, but are also eligible to enjoy separate Health Promotion Board (HPB) screening test rates at CHAS-approved clinics such as ours.
How to make an appointment with Intemedical?
Appointment Portal: Kovan Clinic / Potong Pasir Clinic
(click and book with instant confirmation!)
WhatsApp: 8879 9404
(available during clinic opening hours, 8am to 12am)
Mobile: 8879 9404
(messaging preferred)
Landline: +65 3165 9251
(please be aware that the phone might be engaged due to high call volume)
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