hybrid 5:2 Approach – Hardcore 30:2

After some reflection on the “extreme” zero-calorie interpretation of the 5:2 protocol, I’m transitioning to a more sustainable hybrid approach — one that still delivers the benefits of fasting without making life feel like a constant mental battle. The New Rythm:

On fasting days, I will restrict calories rather than eliminate them entirely. Or at least go with a more controlled reduction Instead of consuming zero calories, I shall allow myself to have my veggie smoothie, and maybe something more. I plan to experiment to see what works. After giving the restricted calories days a test, it felt mentally harder, as nibbling a bit now and then seemed to be ok, still within budget. Thus I reconsidered and I am opting for a hardcore version of 48 hrs fasting monthly, on eating days I'm still following 16/8, which can be considered good enough, a hardcore 5:2 every week isnt necessarily much better. So today I am breaking the second, somewhat unplanned 48 hrs early fter just 40 hours, which is still good for autophagy and cell repair. Thinking of a glass of blueberry juice and a crispbread with egg.

To summarize:

• On non-fasting days I still adhere to the 16/8 regimen. Kinda getting the best of two worlds.

• Once a month – a full 48-hour zero-calorie fast for deep autophagy and cellular repair.

  On all regular eating days – sticking to my trusted 16/8 intermittent fasting window, which has worked well for me so far.

  The jury is still out — I’m keeping this under review, especially as I gather more objective measures and personal reflections.

All in all a full hardcore 5:2 stacked on top of 16/8, is likely be a bit excessive, so instead just a full hardcore 30:2, one instance of 48 hours zero calories per month is certainly doable. None of this has scientific evidence to back it up any way. Albeit that 48 hrs of zero calorie fasting brings deep cell repair, that should be sufficient to do once per month.

In connection to the fasting, before and after have a Blueberry juice for boosting cell repair.

Monthly Deep Autophagy Reset

• Once per month, I will incorporate a 48-hour zero-calorie fasting period to activate deep autophagy, allowing for enhanced cellular cleanup, longevity benefits, and potential stem cell activation.

Optimizing Antioxidants & Skin Health

• Before entering a fasting period, I will focus on replenishing with antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries to enhance skin health and cellular protection while maintaining overall nutritional balance.

This hybrid 5:2 fasting model keeps the structure of intermittent fasting while making it more practical and sustainable for long-term health and wellness..