Fasting isn’t just a diet trend anymore—it’s a science-backed strategy that’s changing how we view food, energy, and health. I decided to take the plunge: fasting for 24 hours, twice a week, for several months. The result? Transformative.
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Why I Chose 24-Hour Fasting Twice Weekly
I’ve always struggled with energy dips, sugar cravings, and stubborn fat—especially around my waistline. After reading up on intermittent fasting benefits, I was curious to test whether fasting could reset my metabolism and improve my health holistically.
Unlike daily time-restricted eating, 24-hour fasting pushes the body deeper into fat-burning, autophagy, and insulin sensitivity. It’s essentially skipping food from dinner to dinner or lunch to lunch—no calories, just hydration.
The Physical Changes I Noticed
Fat Loss, Especially Belly Fat
By week 3, I noticed my jeans fitting more loosely. I didn’t count calories, but fasting naturally reduced my intake and stabilized my insulin. Studies show that fasting promotes fat-burning by depleting glycogen stores and encouraging the body to use fat as fuel.
Improved Digestion and Less Bloating
Giving my gut a full 24-hour break twice a week improved digestion remarkably. My bloating reduced, and I stopped experiencing the midday slump that often followed big lunches.
Better Sleep Quality
It surprised me, but fasting seemed to help me sleep more deeply—likely due to more regulated blood sugar and reduced evening snacking.
The Mental and Emotional Impact
Sharper Focus and Mental Clarity
During fasting days, my productivity soared. I experienced fewer distractions, a quieter mind, and a kind of clarity that I hadn’t felt in years. According to Harvard Health, fasting promotes mental clarity due to increased ketones and reduced oxidative stress.
Food Freedom and Emotional Reset
I became more mindful about my eating patterns. Fasting helped me break the habit of emotional eating and build a healthier relationship with hunger. It no longer scared me—I understood it better.
What I Ate Between Fasts
My eating windows were not about binging but nourishing. I focused on whole foods: lean protein, healthy fats, leafy greens, and complex carbs. Salads were my go-to for volume and nutrients.
If you're looking for clean, weight-loss-friendly meals, explore these low-calorie salad recipes.
Snacking didn’t disappear completely. I still reached for low-calorie options like boiled eggs, nuts, or Greek yogurt between meals. These low-calorie snack ideas helped me stay satisfied without breaking progress.
The Challenges I Faced
Social Events
Fasting on weekends can be tricky when events involve food. I adapted by shifting my fasts to weekdays and planning social meals around them.
Energy Dips During Initial Weeks
The first few fasts were hard. I felt tired and irritable by the 20th hour. Hydration helped—so did electrolytes like pink salt and magnesium water.
Tips for Anyone Trying 24-Hour Fasting
- Start slow with 14- or 16-hour fasts and build up
- Stay hydrated with water, tea, and mineral-rich drinks
- Break your fast gently with protein and healthy fat
- Don’t fast if you’re extremely stressed or underslept
- Women may need to adjust based on menstrual cycles
Should You Try It?
Fasting 24 hours twice a week isn’t for everyone, but for me, it was transformative. It gave me clarity, discipline, and metabolic improvements without restrictive dieting.
If you’re managing weight, energy, or metabolic health—this approach might work for you. But always listen to your body and consult a medical professional if you have underlying conditions.
Final Thoughts: A Shift in Mindset
This experiment was more than a body reset—it shifted my relationship with food and health. I felt more in control, more balanced, and more energized. Fasting didn't feel like deprivation—it felt like liberation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fasting 24 hours twice a week safe?
For healthy individuals, yes. It may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, eating disorders, or pregnant women. Always consult your doctor first.
Can I drink coffee or tea during the 24-hour fast?
Yes. Black coffee, herbal teas, and water are all allowed during fasting, as long as they contain no calories.
Will fasting slow down my metabolism?
No, short-term fasting like 24-hour fasts actually improves metabolic flexibility and doesn't reduce resting metabolic rate.
How should I break a 24-hour fast?
Break your fast with a small, balanced meal containing protein, fat, and fiber. Avoid sugary or ultra-processed foods to prevent insulin spikes.