Am I a Good Candidate For One Meal a Day?

What is the One Meal a Day Plan?

One meal a day is a type of intermittent fasting which involves fasting for about 23 hours including the time you spend sleeping.

The remaining one hour is where you need to eat and assimilate your favourite food.

Why Should I Consider A One Meal Day Plan?

Many people have reported that following the one- meal- a day diet has benefited them in various ways. Some of the benefits of following the OMAD diet include:

1. It helps lose weight rapidly

2. You can count on your calories easily

3. Keeps you active all day,

4. Keeps you away from “afternoon sluggishness,” and provides a feeling of fullness for longer periods.

5. It also lets you choose your favourite food dinner.

Well! The benefits sound quite interesting! But are you a good candidate for one meal day diet plan? Let’s see! Before opting for an OMAD plan, go through its benefits, risks and various other factors and decide whether it is suitable for you or not.

1.  Diet freedom in OMAD doesn’t mean you skip your micronutrients

When you are fasting for the entire day to eat that one meal during your dinner time, you should make sure you consume those essential calories, vitamins and nutrients to fuel up your body for the next day. So, exercise caution! Do not end up munching crackers or drinking alcohol in your OMAD diet.

1. Gym lovers may find it hard to follow OMAD

Fasting for the entire day is extreme. While following an OMAD diet, you may not notice any serious loss of strength in the initial days, but gradually your energy becomes low.  In such a case, thinking of hitting a gym may make you lethargic due to reduced strength.

1. Not good for children, people with diabetes or other metabolic disorders.

The OMAD diet can be extremely dangerous for children or young adults, as it may hamper the growth and development of children.  People who are suffering from diabetes, hypoglycemia, obesity, or metabolic rate issues, should avoid following OMAD as it can cause severe complications.

What Science Has to Say About OMAD?

Caption: Man researching on various things

Credits: pixabay

1. A Research study has shown that extended fasts which included just ingesting water in a 2 day period are linked to decreased rates of diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. However, water-only fasting for prolonged periods can be difficult and extreme which could cause adverse effects including malnourishment and dysfunctions

2. Intermittent fasting boosts the body’s resistance to disease by strengthening the immune system.

3. Another research study has claimed that fasting for 18 to 20 hours a day can regulate the blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the body.

Should I Follow a One Day Meal Plan?

Eating once a day is not for everyone. People can react to it differently depending upon their weight, type of metabolism, age and disease conditions if any. Some people have great results turning OMAD into a lifelong commitment, while some may observe physical weakness, fatigue, binge eating or trouble focusing. So, it’s recommended to discuss with your primary care provider before opting for one meal a day plan.