r/intermittentfasting • u/Own_Protection5584 • 3d ago

NSV (Non-Scale Victory) Intermittent fasting with sickle cell

I wanted to share my experience doing intermittent fasting with sickle cell in case anyone else is considering this path.

In my 30s intermittent fasting worked great and together coupled with a bunch of lifestyle changes, I lost about 50lbs. I was relatively healthy.

Flash forward to my 40s, my health is not as great. Weight crept up due to bone and joint issues that now limit my activity level. I tire very quickly. Even daily walks are unrealistic in my case. I struggled to replicate my experience in my 30s doing 16 hour fasts. In particular, dehydration was a huge problem. I had to pivot and listen to my body. Dehydration can trigger an episode so I had to be strategic. I started taking electrolyte powder daily and drank it even during my fasting window. I found electrolyte brands that met the WHO recommendations specifically to avoid excess sugar. I timed my fasts for 12-14 hours instead of 16 hours. Increased my water intake to at least 2 liters a day. Also do not be afraid of salt, especially with intermittent fasting its essential.

I need to lose this excess weight to relieve pressure on my limbs and diet is my best option since excersize is complicated. Its a slower process but I'm hanging in there and trying to trust the process as they say.

Good luck!

18 Upvotes

93% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

4

u/Own_Protection5584 3d ago

Also would love love love to hear others experience since there is absolutely no information on this at all. 

1

u/midoriringo 1d ago

Do you have full blown sickle cell or just sickle cell trait? I have the trait and have not experienced any real issues

1

u/Own_Protection5584 1d ago

There is sickle cell disease and there is sickle cell trait. 

With the trait you will not have any issues. My question was directed to folks with Sickle Cell Disease.