Understanding OMAD | Interview with a Fasting Fanatic

*Consult your physician in cases of disordered eating, or before beginning any diet/exercise regimen.

*Welcome back to the Fruitful Yield blog! Today we are looking into the highly talked about One Meal A Day (OMAD) diet. As its title states, this eating style consists of twenty-three hours fasted, followed by a one hour eating window. It is an intense form of intermittent fasting. During this extended fasting window, the body uses stored fat as fuel. 

To better understand this diet, we were lucky enough to interview a Fruitful Yield employee who has experienced OMAD first hand. Sara, a fellow FY team member, has followed this eating style (along with other forms of fasting) for the last year and a half. Follow along to learn about her journey and tips on how to make the most of OMAD!

FY: Hi Sara! Was OMAD your first fasting experience, or have you tried your hand at intermittent fasting in the past?

Sara: Hello! No, I originally started with a one to two day fast. Besides that, I have tried the popular sixteen hours fasting with an eight hour eating window. My personal favorite is the one day fast; I like how I feel when I get up the next morning: light and fit.

FY: Many people beginning the OMAD lifestyle have a difficult time choosing when to partake in their meal. When did you find works best for you?

Sara: Dinner. I understand it’s probably not the best choice, but it’s a family meal. Mostly everyone in my family is home at dinner so we eat together.

FY: What types of food are you looking to consume in your meal?

Sara: I try to stay light on carbs. Instead, I focus on fats and proteins with a healthy serving of vegetables... Whole foods like avocado, leafy greens and a clean protein source such as salmon. For dessert, I enjoy a serving of dark chocolate.

FY: Many people curious about OMAD wonder how long it takes for your body to adjust. Did it take you a long time to become accustomed to this eating style?

Sara: Not really. Again, your mind is playing the most important role by making sure you’re letting go of all that is unnecessary. Some days it’s not possible to follow this regimen due to holidays or social events, and that’s okay. But it’s nice when I can go back to my OMAD routine!

FY: I can understand that. Have you noticed any differences between the OMAD fasting style compared to other intermittent fasts?

Sara: Yes, I noticed a difference. With consuming one meal a day, I felt lighter and I quickly found that I didn’t need to consume as much food as I normally do. You realize that you have more free time without the constant need to prepare and eat meals.

FY: Do you have any advice for people curious to try OMAD?

Sara: Yes! Mental preparation is important. Most of the time, people think they are going to starve. They are just used to constantly eating throughout the day, and their body is shocked when it has a select eating window. The body has to train the mind to detach itself from physical things. Once one has tried it for a few days, it may become much easier and feel lighter.

Thanks again for the insight, Sara! Have you tried OMAD? Are you curious to try it? Let us know your thoughts below, and visit us online or in-store to support your wellness goals!