Intermittent Fasting vs Calorie Counting Diets: For the purpose of health and weight reduction, Intermittent Fasting (IF) and Calorie Counting (CC) are two of the most widely used methods. Both are successful but work in totally different ways. Presented below is a comparison to assist you in deciding which could best suit your lifestyle.
Intermittent fasting focuses less on what you can eat, but more on when you eat. This is about alternating between eating periods and fasting periods — for example, the 16:8 plan (16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of eating) or 5:2 plan (eat normally five days, then restrict calories to 2).
Manages blood sugar
Reduces insulin resistance
Promotes natural calorie reduction
Makes meal planning easier
Induces hunger and tiredness
May not be an option for people with non-traditional schedules
Not suitable for pregnant women or diabetics without monitoring
Calorie counting is the monitoring of the calories you take in daily. You attempt to have a caloric deficit, that is, you burn more calories than you take in. Calorie counting is mostly portion control with a sense of nutrient awareness.
Promotes food responsibility
Adjustable to nutritional requirements
Ideal for long-term behavior transformation
Cons:
Needs ongoing monitoring
Can be time-consuming
Can reinforce an unhealthy fixation on numbers
Success will rely on personal goals and behavior.
IF will probably suit individuals who like behavior and less use.
CC is great for those who like versatility and detailed monitoring.
Both methods are shown through studies to yield the same weight loss if properly executed. IF, though, can have other metabolic and endocrine advantages.
No one-size-fits-all solution. If you prefer to be flexible and want to eat food throughout the day in moderation, Calorie Counting may suit you. If you eat less and can stick to time-restricted eating, then Intermittent Fasting may be your choice.
Also Read: Longevity diet: can food choices extend your lifespan?
It is always best to consult a healthcare practitioner or registered dietician before attempting any diet to discuss the best and most effective way for you.