# 26: Ditching the Diets: How I Cracked the Code With Intermittent Fasting
Greetings, midlife friends! I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how to help people understand what intermittent fasting is really all about, and the impact it can have to change lives. Let’s be real - diets are the absolute worst. So today, I'm excited to take you on my personal journey of how I cracked the code with intermittent fasting—a journey that has not only given me back the joy of food, it’s transformed my entire lifestyle. So, buckle up, and let's dive right in!
When I first got started with intermittent fasting, I had no idea what a game-changer it would be. It's not really a diet, but a lifestyle. At its core, it's all about strategic eating, and tapping into the amazing fat-burning potential our bodies possess. You see, it's not so much about the specific foods we eat, but rather the way we time our meals. I've come to realize that it's all about making choices that align with our goals, and for me, that meant letting go of some of my beloved food rituals.
For the longest time, I couldn't imagine parting ways with my french vanilla in my morning coffee. It was my little pleasure, my morning routine. But as I delved into the world of intermittent fasting, I understood that this innocent indulgence was holding me back from achieving my weight loss goals. Sacrifices had to be made, and it wasn't easy. However, I came to a pivotal decision: losing weight was much more important to me than that splash of cream in my coffee. Making the seemingly small sacrifice has had a more powerful impact than I ever could have dreamed.
You know, that's the beauty of intermittent fasting - it grants you the freedom to eat what you love during your designated eating window. It's not about restricting yourself or feeling guilty for enjoying your favorite treats. Once I embraced this perspective, it was like a weight was lifted off my shoulders (and the scale!). If I really want that french vanilla coffee I can have it, just not until I start my eating window. Ironically, now that I can have it guilt free, I rarely do.
Embracing intermittent fasting allowed me to reevaluate my relationship with food. I’m so much better at planning what I’m going to eat, and I rarely impulse indulge. I’ve learned to cherish and savor the meals I had during my eating window, and surprisingly, I found that I didn't crave unhealthy snacks or overindulge as often. Ice cream is still my kryptonite, but I only eat it during my eating window.
Besides the incredible physical benefits, intermittent fasting also had a positive impact on my mental clarity and overall well-being. It's amazing how empowering it is to be in control of my eating patterns, making mindful decisions that prioritize my health goals.
Let me tell you, this journey isn't always easy. There will be times when cravings tempt you to break your fast prematurely or indulge in less than perfect choices too often. But remember, it's about progress, not perfection. We're all human, and it's okay to stumble. What matters is that we pick ourselves up and keep moving forward on this path to a healthier, happier life.
If you’re considering intermittent fasting, I encourage you to explore it as a lifestyle rather than just another trendy diet. It's a flexible and sustainable approach that can be adapted to your unique needs and preferences. Trust me, you'll be amazed by the positive changes it can bring to your life.
So, if you want to join me on this journey, grab your phone and check out @midlifeMaddy on Instagram. Better yet, join our private Facebook Group Intermittent Fasting Lifestyle. Let's inspire each other, share our challenges, recipes, and celebrate our victories together. Remember, you have the power to take control of your eating. It all begins with one small decision - to embrace intermittent fasting as a lifestyle, and from there, the possibilities are limitless.
Stay motivated, stay committed, and most importantly, stay true to yourself. Intermittent fasting is not just about what you eat; it's about embracing a new way of living that puts you in charge rather than the food being in charge. Let's do this together! 💪🥗🍳
With love and intermittent fasting,
Maddy
