The wellness world always has new buzzwords or trends circulating around, especially when it comes to fasting. There is fasting, and then there is intermittent fasting. Fasting is abstaining from food or drink, usually for at least a period of 24 hours. Intermittent fasting is a pattern of fasting and eating cycles, or time restricted eating. Types of fasting are most commonly associated with lower carb or ketogenic diets to help the body get into ketosis. Ketosis is when your body gets to the metabolic state which raises ketone bodies, and your body burns fat since there are no carbohydrates left. I personally do not fast, but my body naturally follows intermittent fasting because I usually have an early dinner and workout first thing in the morning. I know there are health benefits to fasting, but I was hesitant to experiment with it, so I thought Prolon would be a good start.
Prolon is known as The "Fasting Mimicking Diet." Fasting mimicking means you get the benefits of a 5 day fast while still eating food and nourishing your body with plant based foods. This is a prolonged pattern that tricks the body into thinking you are fasting by providing a strategic combination of micro and macro-nutrients designed to keep the body nourished while going through the rejuvenating process of the fasting state.
Prolon is the first and only packaged and clinically tested program in the market. I love that all products are plant based, gluten free, and non-GMO. Prolon sent me their scientifically proven 5 day fast to review and share my honest opinion. I think this is a great option for anyone looking to jumpstart weight loss, and those curious about fasting but unsure where to begin or how to do so safely. Experts advise against anyone who is pregnant, underweight, or who has a history of eating disorders from using this program. Everyone should be careful when following a low calorie plan, and as always, consult your doctor before beginning a new wellness plan.
I found Prolon to be very convenient - each box provides food for a different day, so you have everything you need and it is all explained on the meal breakdown card! The boxes include plant-based energy bars, soups, snacks, teas, and supplements, that are all studied and carefully designed by inventors from the University of Southern California to provide benefits of a five-day fast without the deprivation. This fast promotes rejuvenating changes, including supporting metabolic health, and maintaining healthy levels of glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Also, by activating an increase in circulating stem cells during the fast, you will be promoting cellular regeneration in the body.
Surprisingly, I was not hungry throughout since I was still getting adequate nutrients and fats for satiety. Your energy will shift as your body adjusts to using stored fat and carbohydrates. When purchasing your fast you also are connected with a health advisor from Prolon to guide you and answer any questions you might have before starting or during the 5 days.
I think my biggest struggle during this fast was giving up coffee! However, being a huge fan of the nut based "L- Bar" and crunchy Kale Crackers helped me through it. During this fast, any strenuous activity is advised against. I was careful to moderate my exercise routine to an appropriate level.
I did not weigh or measure myself before and after, but I did notice a more controlled appetite and felt much leaner and lighter. I would definitely rotate this into my lifestyle throughout the year to reap the benefits. This program might not be for everyone, but I believe this can be very beneficial to various groups of people whether they are looking for internal health benefits, weight loss, or appetite control. As always, consult your doctor or other health professional before making any major lifestyle changes!