Which eating pattern consists of fasting only 1-2 days a week while eating freely on non-fasting days?

The eating pattern defined by fasting 1-2 days a week while eating freely on the non-fasting days aligns with periodic fasting. This approach allows individuals to engage in a cycle of fasting for specified days, followed by unrestricted eating when not fasting. It is characterized by its flexibility, and the limited fasting days can create a manageable balance between fasting and consuming normal meals, making it appealing for those looking to incorporate fasting into their lifestyle without a strict daily regimen.

Periodic fasting can help with weight management and health without requiring daily restrictions on caloric intake. This differs from other eating patterns like alternate day fasting, which focuses on fasting every other day, or alternate day modified fasting, where the fasting days involve restricted calorie intake rather than complete abstinence from food. Intermittent fasting generally refers to a broader range of practices where time-restricted feeding windows are applied daily rather than on specific days.

Overall, periodic fasting is about maintaining a consistent yet flexible approach to eating, providing the benefits of fasting while still allowing plenty of freedom on non-fasting days.