protocols

What is the 16:8 Intermittent Fasting Protocol?

The 16:8 intermittent fasting protocol means fasting for 16 hours and eating in an 8-hour window. Learn how it works and why it's the best place to start.

2026-05-23

The 16:8 protocol means fasting for 16 consecutive hours each day and eating all your meals within an 8-hour window. Most people skip breakfast and eat from noon to 8pm or 1pm to 7pm. It's the most popular intermittent fasting schedule because it slots naturally into daily life without requiring extreme willpower or lifestyle disruption. 16:8 is a form of time-restricted eating. You're not counting calories, weighing food, or following a rigid meal plan. You're simply choosing a consistent 8-hour…

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