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Fasting and Feasting: A Mom's Journey to Emotional Zen and Self-Care Bliss


Dear Fasting Guru,

I'm a woman currently weighing 190 lbs, with a goal weight of around 160 lbs, and I'm 18 months postpartum. I'm considering starting intermittent fasting (IF) for weight loss, but I struggle with anxiety and irritability if I go a few hours without eating during the day. As a stay-at-home mom to two toddlers, I need to be emotionally stable. How do other experienced fasters manage these symptoms? I'm thinking of trying the 16:8 method, with an eating window from 9 AM to 5 PM. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Dear Seeking Stability,

First off, kudos to you for taking steps on your intermittent fasting (IF) journey! 🎉 Now, let's talk about those pesky irritability gremlins that pop up when we go a few hours without munching. Part of the fasting adventure is discovering how food distracts us from what's really going on inside our minds.
Yes, you'll likely experience some irritability, and that's totally normal. The trick is to dive into why you're feeling that way. Here's a fun tip: start a mood journal! 📒✨ Jot down how your mood changes throughout the day and try to connect it to what's happening around you. Are the toddlers being especially rowdy, or is there something else on your mind?

By becoming aware of the reasons behind your irritation, you can learn to manage your mood without reaching for that snack as a quick fix. Instead, you'll have a better understanding of your emotions and can handle them with more grace and patience.

As for the fasting itself, let's get you set up with the 16:8 method. Your eating window will be from 9 AM to 5 PM. This way, you have a structured plan that supports both your weight loss goals and emotional stability. 💪🌟

Stay kind to yourself, embrace the journey, and remember that every step you take is a step towards a healthier, happier you.

✨ If you find value in my content and it helps you on your fasting journey, consider supporting my work by buying me a coffee! ☕️ Your generosity keeps this blog alive and thriving, enabling me to share more insights, research, and tips. Thank you for being a part of this community and for inspiring me to continue this journey. ✨

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