What is the 5:2 diet?

The 5:2 diet, also known as the Fast Diet, is a form of intermittent fasting that focuses on alternating between periods of regular eating and periods of calorie restriction (fasting). On the 5:2 diet, individuals consume a normal, balanced diet for five days of the week and then restrict their calorie intake for the remaining two days of the week.

During the five ‘non-fasting' days, individuals are encouraged to eat a regular, healthy diet without specific restrictions on food choices. This flexibility contributes to the diet's appeal, as it allows for a less rigid approach to eating on most days of the week.

The reduced-calorie days are often referred to as ‘fasting’ days, but the term is a bit misleading as it doesn't necessarily mean complete abstention from food. Instead, it involves a reduction in calorie intake.

The 5:2 diet is believed to offer several health benefits beyond weight loss. Intermittent fasting may improve metabolic health, improve metabolic health, enhance insulin sensitivity, and improve cellular repair processes. Some studies also propose that intermittent fasting could have positive effects on heart health, cognitive function, and reduced inflammation.  However, the 5:2 diet can be difficult to adhere to and may result in overeating on non-fast days.