intermittent fasting

American  

[in-ter-mit-nt fas-ting] / ˈɪn tər mɪt nt ˈfæs tɪŋ /

noun

1. a pattern of eating that involves regular short periods of fasting, such as by limiting food intake to a certain period of the day or to fewer meals on certain days of the week.

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Etymology

Origin of intermittent fasting

First recorded in 1875–80, in the context of fasting for religious purposes; 2005–10, in a wellness context

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

intermittent fasting

People who repeatedly lose weight only to regain it may find intermittent fasting easier to maintain than traditional calorie counting, according to new research from the University of Adelaide.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 8, 2026

Researchers found that intermittent fasting and continuous calorie restriction produced similar weight loss.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 8, 2026

The findings, published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, suggest that intermittent fasting and calorie restriction may promote weight loss through different psychological and behavioral mechanisms.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 8, 2026

Although intermittent fasting has grown rapidly in popularity, researchers say much remains unknown about its long term psychological and behavioral effects compared with more traditional dieting strategies.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 8, 2026

More recent reviews have linked intermittent fasting to improved insulin sensitivity, healthier lipid levels, and possible benefits for brain function and cardiovascular health.

From Science Daily ● May 17, 2026