Intermittent Fasting VS Fasting: Know 14/10 VS 16/8 And 12/12 VS 16/8 Methods!

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Published on: 08-May-2024

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Intermittent Fasting VS Fasting: Know 14/10 VS 16/8 And 12/12 VS 16/8 Methods!

Intermittent Fasting VS Fasting: Know 14/10 VS 16/8 And 12/12 VS 16/8 Methods!

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Intermittent fasting and fasting are ways of controlling when you eat and when you do not. Both are dietary approaches that involve periods of abstaining from food consumption. With intermittent fasting, you have set periods of eating followed by periods of fasting. This means only eating for an 8-hour window each day or eating normally for five days and then eating very little for two days. Conversely, fasting usually involves extended periods without eating, often lasting a day or more. During a fast, you might only drink water or consume a limited amount of certain foods or drinks.  

This is why understanding intermittent fasting vs fasting differences is essential, including how they share the overarching principle of restricting calorie intake during specific time frames, duration and structure. While intermittent fasting and traditional fasting can offer various weight loss, improved metabolic health, and enhanced cellular repair processes health benefits, traditional fasting may require more careful monitoring and supervision due to its extended duration and nutrient deficiencies. 

This blog explores the differences between intermittent fasting and fasting approaches to understand how they are done and who they might be suitable for. So, continue reading to learn more!  

Table Of Contents 

1. Intermittent Fasting 14 10 VS 16 8                                 

2. 12 12 VS 16 8 Intermittent Fasting 

3. Intermittent Fasting VS Fasting 

4. 7-Day Indian Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan For Weight Loss (16/8)  

5. Dietitian’s Recommendation 

6. The Final Say 

7. FAQs 

8. References 

Intermittent Fasting 14:10 VS 16:8                                 

Intermittent fasting (IF) strategies, such as the 14:10 and 16:8 methods, structure daily eating and fasting periods within defined timeframes. Following these personalised intermittent fasting plans will allow you to diet in a healthier way, gaining recommended nutrition levels, let’s have a look at the key distinctions between these two popular IF approaches:  

1. Intermittent Fasting 14:10 Method 

The 14:10 method of intermittent fasting entails a 14-hour fasting followed by a 10-hour eating window. For instance, one might start fasting after dinner, around 8 PM and resume eating at 10 AM the following day. This longer fasting window allows for a more gradual transition into and out of the fasting state, which may be more manageable for some individuals. While it offers improved insulin sensitivity and modest weight loss benefits, its effectiveness can vary based on individual metabolism and lifestyle factors. 

2. Intermittent Fasting 16:8 Method 

In contrast, the 16:8 approach compresses the fasting period to 16 hours, with an 8-hour eating window. For example, fasting from 8 PM until noon the next day and consuming all meals within the 12 PM to 8 PM window. This narrower eating window may induce more significant metabolic changes, such as increased fat oxidation and cellular repair mechanisms like autophagy, potentially leading to enhanced weight loss and metabolic benefits. Accordingly, choose the best diet for weight loss which suits your eating windows. 

However, the shorter eating window may pose challenges for some individuals regarding meal timing and adherence, requiring more discipline to consume adequate nutrients within a restricted timeframe. 

Scientific Rationale: 

1. Physiological Response: The body responds differently to fasting durations. The 16:8 method induces a more profound depletion of glycogen stores, prompting a quicker shift to fat metabolism and heightened metabolic activity. 

2. Metabolic State: Increased ketone production and elevated growth hormone levels during fasting may contribute to greater fat loss and metabolic improvements. 

3. Benefits: Both methods offer potential benefits for weight management, metabolic health, and longevity. The choice between them should consider individual preferences, lifestyle factors, and health considerations. 

12:12 VS 16:8 Intermittent Fasting 

Intermittent fasting vs fasting methods like the 12:12 and 16:8 approaches also differ in their fasting and eating windows, each offering unique characteristics and potential effects: 

1. Intermittent Fasting 12:12 Method 

The 12:12 regimen features a 12-hour fasting period followed by a 12-hour eating window. For example, if your last meal is at 8 PM, you'd fast until 8 AM the next day, then resume eating. This balanced approach provides a moderate transition into and out of fasting, improving digestion, regulating appetite, and supporting modest weight management. While it may not induce significant metabolic changes in more extended fasting periods, it benefits overall health. 

2. Intermittent Fasting 16:8 Method 

The 16:8 method involves a 16-hour fasting period followed by an 8-hour eating window. For instance, fasting from 10 PM until 2 PM the next day, with meals between 2 PM and 10 PM. This longer fasting may lead to more pronounced metabolic adaptations, such as enhanced fat burning, increased insulin sensitivity, and heightened cellular repair processes like autophagy. However, adherence to this approach and effective weight loss strategies may be challenging due to the shorter eating window, requiring careful meal planning and timing. 

Scientific Rationale: 

1. Duration of Fasting and Eating Windows: Physiologically, the differences between these methods impact metabolic processes. 

2. Glycogen Depletion: The 16:8 method's prolonged fasting period may lead to more substantial glycogen depletion, facilitating a quicker transition to fat metabolism and triggering cellular repair mechanisms. 

3. Metabolic Effects: While both methods offer weight management and metabolic health benefits, the 16:8 approach may offer slightly more pronounced effects due to its longer fasting duration. 

4. Individual Considerations: Personal preferences, lifestyle factors, and health considerations should guide the choice between these methods. Consulting with a registered professional is recommended, especially for those with specific health issues or dietary needs. 

Intermittent Fasting VS Fasting 


The choice between intermittent fasting vs fasting depends on individual goals, preferences, and health considerations. Note these significant differentiators between these two dietary approaches: 

Factors 

Intermittent Fasting (IF) 

Fasting 

Meaning 

Cycling between eating and fasting periods regularly. 

Abstaining from food consumption for an extended period. 

Timing 

Typically involves daily or weekly cycles of fasting and eating. 

It may involve prolonged periods of fasting, ranging from 24 hours to several days. 

Structure 

Major structures like the 16/8 method or alternate day fasting. 

Less structured, with duration and frequency determined individually or based on specific goals. 

Benefits 

Weight loss, improved metabolic health, and cellular repair processes. 

Weight loss, potential improvements in insulin sensitivity, detoxification. 

Flexibility 

Offers flexibility in meal timing and food choices. 

It may require strict adherence to fasting periods and limited food options. 

Potential Risks 

It may lead to overeating in different eating periods if not monitored. 

Risk of nutrient deficiencies and metabolic changes if prolonged. 

Sustainability 

Relatively sustainable due to flexibility and adaptability. 

It may be challenging to sustain long-term due to strict fasting requirements. 

Popular Protocols 

16/8 method, alternate-day fasting, 5:2 diet. 

Water fasting, juice fasting, and religious fasting practices. 

 

7-Day Indian Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan For Weight Loss (16/8)  

Note this sample menu of intermittent fasting schedule for weight loss:  

DAY - 1 (Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan) 

Pre-workout meal 

 

Black coffee - 150 ml 

12:00 pm 

 

Grilled chicken breast salad - 100 gm 

Brown rice pulao- 1 small bowl 

3:00 pm 

 

Curd with cut fruits - 1 medium size bowl 

8:00 pm 

 

Spinach and mushroom gravy - 1 small bowl 

Jowar chapatti - 1 

  

DAY - 2 (Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan) 

Pre-workout meal 

 

Black coffee - 150 ml 

12:00 pm 

 

Spinach, banana, almond milk smoothie with 1 tbsp home-made protein powder- 1 glass 

Handful of almonds (overnight soaked and peeled) 

Mixed green avocado salad - 1 small bowl 

3:00 pm 

 

Mixed fruits - 1 medium bowl 

8:00 pm 

 

Dal (lentil)- 1 small bowl 

Brown rice - 1 small bowl 

Stir-fried vegetables - 1 small bowl 

   

DAY - 3 (Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan) 

Pre-workout meal 

 

Black coffee - 150 ml 

12:00 pm 

 

Moong dal cheela with tofu stuffing - 2 

A glass of milk – 1 glass 

3:00 pm 

 

Carrot and cucumber with chickpea hummus - 1 small bowl 

8:00 pm 

 

Quinoa tofu khichadi- 1 small bowl 

Pumpkin carrot soup- 1 medium bowl 

   

DAY - 4 (Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan) 

Pre-Workout Meal 

 

Black coffee - 150ml 

12:00 pm 

 

Chickpea and vegetable curry- 1small bowl 

millet chapati - 1 

Cucumber onion salad - 1 quarter plate 

3:00 pm 

 

Handful of walnuts and peanuts 

Banana shake without sugar- 1 glass 

8:00 pm 

 

Vegetable brown rice biryani- 1 small bowl 

Cucumber Raita- 1 small bowl 

 

DAY - 5 (Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan) 

Pre-Workout Meal 

 

Black coffee- 150ml 

12:00 pm 

 

Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms – two whole eggs 

Whole grain toast- 2 slices 

3:00 pm 

 

Cottage cheese with pineapple - 1 small bowl 

8:00 pm 

 

Baked chicken breast with roasted sweet potatoes – 1 medium bowl 

steamed green beans – 1 small bowl 

   

DAY - 6 (Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan) 

Pre-workout meal 

 

Black coffee- 150 ml 

12:00 pm 

 

buckwheat pancakes with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey- 2 

boiled egg white - 2 

3:00 pm 

 

Trail mix (nuts, seeds, and dried fruits) 

Coconut water - 1 glass 

8:00 pm 

 

Palak paneer- 1 small bowl 

Missi roti- 1 

Broccoli salad- 1 small bowl 

   

DAY - 7 (Intermittent Fasting Diet Plan) 

Pre-workout meal 

 

Black coffee - 150ml 

12:00pm 

 

Overnight oats with mixed chia seeds, almond milk, and mixed berries- 1 small bowl 

scrambled egg - 1 

3:00 pm 

 

Paneer -100 gm and a handful of grapes 

8:00 pm 

 

Mushroom, tofu and bell pepper stir-fry- 1 medium bowl 

Brown rice pulao- 1 small bowl 

Dietitian’s Recommendation 

As a dietitian, I advocate for personalised intermittent fasting vs fasting approaches to dietary choices. While intermittent fasting (IF) and longer-term fasting can offer benefits for some individuals, such as weight management and metabolic improvements, it is crucial to consider each person's unique health profile and lifestyle. I emphasise the importance of moderation, balance, and nutrient-rich meals during eating periods, regardless of the intermittent fasting vs fasting regimen chosen.   

Dt. Aditi Upadhyay 

The Final Say 

In the end, now you know that the intermittent fasting vs fasting dietary approaches offer a versatile and effective means of managing one's eating patterns and overall well-being. Whether you choose for the 16:8 method or another variation, IF can yield various advantages, such as weight control, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and potential health improvements. Nonetheless, the key to a successful IF plan involves finding a balance between fasting and eating periods while prioritising nutrient-rich meals. It is also crucial to focus on weight loss challenges and note your body's cues and seek guidance from a registered dietitian, especially if you have specific medical concerns. 

FAQs 

1. What are the essentials of an intermittent fasting schedule for weight loss? 

The essentials of an intermittent fasting schedule for weight loss typically involve alternating periods of eating and fasting. A common dietary approach is the 16/8 method, where you can first fast for 16 hours and consume all required calories within an 8-hour eating window. It's crucial to maintain a balanced diet during the eating window and stay hydrated throughout the fasting period. 

2. What are the major differences between intermittent fasting vs small meals? 

Intermittent fasting and consuming small meals throughout the day represent contrasting dietary strategies. 

  • While intermittent fasting focuses on restricting food intake, often with longer fasting periods followed by designated eating windows, the small meals approach involves consuming several small meals or snacks evenly spaced throughout the day to maintain a steady metabolism. 

  • Intermittent fasting may offer benefits like improved insulin sensitivity and weight management, while small meals can help regulate your body’s blood sugar levels and prevent overeating. 

The choice between the two depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and health goals. 

3. What is the major difference between time-restricted eating vs intermittent fasting? 

Time-restricted eating (TRE) and intermittent fasting (IF) are related but differ in their scope and flexibility: 

  • Intermittent fasting encompasses various fasting protocols, including alternate day fasting and periodic fasting, which involve longer fasting periods interspersed with periods of normal eating. 

  • However, time-restricted eating focuses on limiting the daily eating window without prescribing specific fasting durations. 

While both methods can promote metabolic health and weight loss, time-restricted eating is often considered a subset of intermittent fasting, offering some individuals a simpler and more sustainable approach. 

References 

About ToneOp 

ToneOp is a platform dedicated to improving and maintaining good health through a comprehensive range of goal-oriented health plans with up to 3 Coach support. With a range of Weight Management, Medical Condition, Detox Plans, and Face Yoga Plans, the app also provides premium health trackers, recipes and health content. Get customised diet, fitness, naturopathy & yoga plans and transform yourself with ToneOp. 

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