Have you been exploring intermittent fasting with cacao?
Last month there were many questions asked following my popular blog post titled “Intermittent Fasting as a Female with Cacao”. So, this month I share answers and also suggest some extra additions to your cacao and why. I have tried many intermittent fasting variations over the years and here are some of my favourite and/or most helpful additions.
Tip #1 - What is MCT Oil?
MCT stands for medium chain triglycerides. MCT oil is a processed oil sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. It contains medium-length chains of fats called triglycerides. Due to their medium length, MCTs are digested faster, versus longer chain fatty acids found in many other foods. So, MCT oil is easily absorbed and transported throughout the body. It is utilised in cellular metabolism and energy production. It helps us feel satiated while staying in a fasting state.
"C8 MCT oil is converted directly into ketones in the body, and coffee (and cacao) contain caffeine, which doubles your ketone production, according to a study by Canadian researchers." - Dave Asprey, "Fast This Way."
Tip #2 - What Type of MCT Oil Do You Use?
When I use TCM oil I use Melrose TCM oil, "Kick Start". It is made from 100% organic coconut oil.
"Our blend contains C8 and C10 medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), that are 100% derived from coconuts. Caprylic Acid (C8) is known to increase energy, boost ketone production, and assist in weight-loss. Capric Acid (C10) is a slightly longer chain, taking longer for the body to process it, sustaining the energy increase.” - Melrose Health
I've seen Melrose Kick Start sold in Coles and health food stores. Melrose Health is an Australian company, so for those of you positioned in other parts of the world you may have to do a little research of your own to find a good quality TCM oil. I have heard that Ancient and Brave, a UK-based company, also provide good quality TCM oil (thanks for sharing this information Menna 🙏).
Tip #3 - How Often Should I Intermittent Fast?
How often you intermittent fast is individual. Start small and see how you feel. You might like to synchronise your intermittent fast with the new moon, so once per month when first starting. Or, if you want to get into the spirit of 'Spring Detox' start with one intermittent fast per week during Spring. You can increase the number of days depending on how you feel.
More recent research is showing that some of the benefits of intermittent fasting lie in the regularity and continuation of intermittent fasting daily. There have been no large studies on women with this yet. Have a listen to this recent podcast for more detailed information -
Tip #4 - Add in Herbs and Spices...
Add an accent of beneficial herbs and/or spices with a pinch or two of:
Cardamom - It is warming and calming for the digestive system, it also sharpens the mind and lifts the spirits.
Cinnamon - It adds a natural sweetness, is full of antioxidants, reduces inflammation, and is a natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral.
Clove - Is warming and calming for the digestive system, and is also a natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral.
Fresh mint - Some people find mint helps settle their digestion, you can add a sprig of fresh mint whilst heating and mixing your cacao and then remove it before drinking.
Ginger - Is warming and spicy, it aids digestion, relieves nausea, and is an effective circulatory and immune system stimulant.
Turmeric & freshly ground pepper - The fresh pepper helps us absorb the piperine found in turmeric, so when combined they reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve fatigue.
Salt - Rounds out the bitterness of cacao and sodium is essential for many body functions including fluid balance, nerve health, muscle function, and nutrient absorption.
There is more research to be done on this, but some sweeter tasting herbs and tonics may take you out of a fasting state. I suggest exploring this yourself, see how you feel with or without adding herbs, oils and/or a tonic to your cacao.
Tip #5 - ...Or Add in a Medicinal Tonic.
I recently discovered ENKI Organics while away for a weekend in Daylesford. I found adding a few drops of Blue Lotus and/or Frankincense to my brewed Living Koko cacao took it to another level. ENKI currently offers 14 powerful tonics to choose from (some include honey so those tonics would take you out of a fasting state). If you can't make it to Daylesford, they have an online shop and ship throughout Australia and internationally. I encourage you to check out their website for more information - https://enki.au/
"With attention and intention in every detail, Enki’s extracts hold an incredible potency and are highly bioavailable.” - Enki Apothecary.
Lastly, knowing just a little about the various additions available to add to your cacao can help you make the most out of your intermittent fast. Have any of these additions sparked your curiosity and interest? What are you going to add to your cacao brew next time? Please share any insights or further questions in the comments section below.
Remember you can find further details on Intermittent fasting in my previous blogs and in my book - "Wonder Full Women. Attune & Bloom. Eat, Move & Meditate with the Seasons".
I wish you all the best with your intermittent fasting with cacao.
xx Freya