Intermittent fasting has become one of the most popular dietary approaches in the world. The 16:8 method — eating within an 8 hour window and fasting for 16 hours — has millions of devoted followers who swear by its effects on weight loss, mental clarity, energy levels and longevity. Studies show it can reduce insulin resistance, promote cellular repair through autophagy and help with weight management. Critics argue it is simply a form of calorie restriction with no unique metabolic benefits, that it can lead to disordered eating patterns and that the long-term effects are still poorly understood. Is intermittent fasting actually worth the effort or is it just another trend?
