I Stopped 16:8 Fasting and This Happened (You Should Try It)

Thomas DeLauer
Thomas DeLauerMay 23, 2026

Why It Matters

Adopting weekly, protein‑focused fasting reduces hormonal stress and improves metabolic efficiency, offering a sustainable path to fat loss and performance gains.

Key Takeaways

  • Daily 16:8 fasting may flatten cortisol rhythm, risking insulin resistance.
  • Switch to 3‑4 weekly long fasts for deeper autophagy.
  • Prioritize high protein meals early to satisfy protein leverage hypothesis.
  • Increase energy flux by eating more and moving more on feast days.
  • Add electrolytes and olive‑oil oleuropein to boost fasting benefits.

Summary

The video challenges the popular daily 16:8 intermittent fasting protocol, arguing that chronic morning fasts blunt the natural cortisol awakening response and can promote insulin resistance. The creator, once a staunch 16:8 advocate, now recommends re‑framing fasting on a weekly basis rather than a daily habit. Key insights include the hormonal downside of daily fasting, the advantage of three to four longer fasts (18‑22 hours) each week, and the concepts of G‑Flux (energy throughput) and protein leverage. By eating abundant, protein‑dense meals on non‑fast days and moving more, you raise metabolic rate, improve hormone profiles, and maintain a net weekly calorie deficit without chronic stress. The presenter cites endocrinology studies showing elevated cortisol amplitude after fasting, a clinical nutrition trial where high‑flux participants burned more fat and felt fuller, and protein‑leverage research where low‑protein diets drove over‑consumption. He also highlights practical tools like electrolyte supplementation and oleuropein‑rich olive oil to amplify autophagy without a full water fast. For viewers, the takeaway is to adopt deeper, less frequent fasts, front‑load protein, and cycle between feast and famine weekly. This strategy aligns with ancestral eating patterns, preserves circadian rhythm, and leverages metabolic pathways for better weight‑loss, performance, and long‑term health.

Original Description

Get LMNT Electrolytes & Receive a FREE Sample Flavors Pack: http://drinklmnt.com/thomas
This video does contain a paid partnership with a brand that helps to support this channel. It is because of brands like this that we are able to provide the content that we do for free.
Please check out the new Shorts channel, DeLauer Clips and Workouts, here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQPQImPsw74KhO0Zy2-leyA/videos
Please Subscribe to my Email Newsletter Here: https://www.thomasdelauer.com/life-optimization-tactics/
Follow More of My Daily Life on Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/ThomasDeLauer
References
Timestamps ⏱
0:00 - Intro
1:40 - Why Daily Fasting Can Cause Issues
3:33 - A Better Alternative
5:57 - Free Variety Pack of LMNT
6:33 - Energy Flux (G-Flux)
7:55 - Protein Leverage Hypothesis
9:04 - Takeaways & How to Apply
10:14 - Olive Oil Fasting

Comments

Want to join the conversation?

Loading comments...