Viewpoint with Dr Ian Campbell: Intermittent Fasting

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Here at Nutracheck, we work with some fantastic consultants to get to the bottom of diet trends. We spoke to Dr Ian Campbell – a GP specialising in the treatment and prevention of obesity – about the ever-popular intermittent fasting, and here he shares his expert opinion...

Keeping a healthy weight is so important for our physical and mental health. For those who need to lose weight to prevent ill health or to help control existing ailments, the only way is to eat less and move more. The problem for virtually everyone however is how we achieve that, not just short term but, most importantly, long term. For that reason, as a doctor who prioritises weight management as a treatment for so many health problems, I am prepared to work with patients on designing a healthy diet and lifestyle approach that fits with their expectations, tolerability, and lifestyle. While there is little evidence that prolonged fasting dietary approaches have significant health benefits over the more traditional measured calorie reduction diets, the best way for my patients, is the way that works for them.

One major challenge with fasting dietary approaches is transferring that initial enthusiasm and dedication to the cause into a long-term lifestyle change. Fasting can be uncomfortable, and make the dieter feel weak, light headed, cause headaches, gastrointestinal changes, and cause irritability. We talk about hungry people being “hangry” for a reason. But, for those who have been unable to find weight loss success using more traditional approaches, if a fasting approach can give them that fighting start and prompt long-term commitment, then so be it.

Who is it good for?

In short, a fasting diet may be good for those who choose it, according to their personality, lifestyle, previous experience and the urgency of their need for weight loss. People with musculoskeletal issues, hip, knee or back problems for example, might benefit from rapid weight loss. It's also a possible way to reduce average blood sugar, to help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, or perhaps lower your cholesterol to help avoid taking medicine (statins) to reduce it for you, and keep your doctor off your case.

Who shouldn't try it?

People with pre-existing health problems need to be cautious however. Someone losing weight to help manage their already diagnosed type 2 diabetes, and who are on blood sugar lowering medication, need to be careful. Going without food for a prolonged period of time could cause symptomatic hypoglycemia, low blood sugar, and make the dieter feel unwell, confused, and at risk of falls, accidents, injury and even, ultimately, a hypoglycemic seizure or coma. Similarly, in someone on medication for high blood pressure, a rapid weight loss regime could lead to hypotension, low blood pressure and a risk of fainting or even worse. So, where ill health has already been identified, it's essential that professional medical advice is sought before starting a fasting diet.

Which type of fasting approach – if any – would you recommend?

I wouldn't recommend one fasting diet as being more tolerable, or even more effective, than another. We're all individuals, and – dare I say it – one size definitely doesn't fit all. If you want to lose weight, take a steady, sustainable and long-term approach to reduced calorie intake and increased physical activity. Choose the dietary and exercise approach that works for you. If for whatever reason an intermittent fasting approach appeals to you, be mindful of my advice above. And finally, don't forget that the evidence is clear: people who achieve long-term weight loss, and all the health benefits that it can bring, are most likely to succeed if they have simultaneously developed, and even more importantly, maintained, long-term increased physical activity levels.

For over 30 years, Dr Campbell has passionately promoted a holistic approach to weight management. He was the show doctor on three seasons of ITV's Biggest Loser and works closely with Nutracheck to help our members live healthier, happier lives.