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When Fasting Isn't Easy Anymore: Why Consistent Hunger Creeps Back and How to Beat It

Dear Fasting Guru,

I’ve got a question I’ve always wondered about.

Let's say you've been having great success with fasting—it’s been easy to stick to the fast, hunger is under control, and cravings are nonexistent.

Everything is going great and you feel amazing. You keep the same schedule, same workouts...you're on a hot streak of your life! This could be for 6 months, a few weeks, even a year. It’s become a lifestyle that is easy to follow and enjoyable.

Then all of a sudden, everything changes! You start feeling starved again, and it's hard to stick to the fast.

What makes this occur? Why do you suddenly have trouble fasting despite having been successful and finding ease with it for a while?


Dear Curious Faster,

Every seasoned faster eventually hits that wall. Even after more than twenty years of fasting, I’ve had seasons where fasting didn’t align with my lifestyle or body.

Let’s start with the basics. It’s crucial to get some blood work and your thyroid checked. This will help you identify any potential deficiencies. I remember a decade ago when nothing was aligning correctly for me and it turned out to be a vitamin D deficiency. I had to take pharmaceutical-grade vitamin D, which made a huge difference in my weight and even my personality.

Nutritional deficiencies like vitamin D can significantly impact your hunger levels and overall health. Moreover, factors like stress and sleep can affect your body’s hunger hormones, leading to increased cravings. Ensuring you’re getting enough protein, healthy fats, and fiber in your diet can also help you feel more satisfied during your fasting window.

Additionally, it's worth considering any recent changes in your lifestyle. Increased stress, lack of sleep, or fluctuations in your diet can all contribute to heightened hunger. Sometimes your body might recalibrate to your fasting routine, making adjustments that could affect your hunger cues.

Remember, your body is adaptive and dynamic, and hitting a rough patch doesn’t mean the end of your fasting success. By addressing these fundamental aspects, you can get back on track and continue enjoying the benefits of fasting.

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