Best Fasting Tips and Wins This Week (May 11–17, 2026)
Every week, the fasting and keto communities light up with breakthroughs, questions, and real-world results that prove these lifestyles work. This week was no exception — from a jaw-dropping 171-pound weight loss to heated debates about fasting and heart health, the fasting world delivered some incredible stories and lessons.
In this weekly round-up, we break down the biggest fasting trends, top community wins, and must-know tips from r/fasting, r/intermittentfasting, r/OMAD, and r/keto. Whether you’re just starting your fasting journey or you’re a seasoned extended faster, there’s something here for you.
1. The OMAD + Keto 171-Pound Transformation That Broke the Internet
The biggest story this week came from r/intermittentfasting, where a user shared a staggering transformation: 171 pounds lost in just 8 months using a combination of one meal a day (OMAD), keto, and walking 5 miles daily. Starting at 526.6 pounds and now at 354.8 pounds, this individual proved that combining two powerful strategies — fasting and low-carb eating — can produce life-changing results.
What makes this story stand out isn’t just the numbers. It’s the simplicity of the approach. No expensive supplements, no complicated meal plans. Just one nutritious meal, consistent walking, and the discipline to show up every day. With 185 comments and over 2,600 upvotes, the community rallied behind this transformation, offering encouragement and asking about the practical details of maintaining such a rigorous routine.
Key takeaway: You don’t need a complicated system. OMAD paired with keto and daily movement is a proven formula for dramatic weight loss — even from starting points that feel overwhelming.
2. 16:8 Intermittent Fasting Delivers 40 Pounds in One Year
Not everyone wants to do OMAD, and this week’s second-biggest win proved that a gentler approach works too. A 59-year-old user shared their one-year transformation using the 16:8 intermittent fasting window — starting at 212.5 pounds and dropping to 172.5 pounds, losing 40 pounds in 12 months.
What’s remarkable about this story is the accessibility. The 16:8 method — eating only within an 8-hour window — is one of the most sustainable fasting protocols for beginners. It doesn’t require calorie counting, eliminates breakfast (or dinner, depending on your preference), and fits naturally into most lifestyles. The fact that someone at 59 achieved these results shows that age is not a barrier to fasting success.
If you’re new to fasting and wondering where to start, the 16:8 method is the gold standard for a reason. Check out our complete guide to intermittent fasting for beginners to learn how to set your eating window.
3. Cardiovascular Concerns With Fasting: What You Need to Know
Not all fasting stories this week were positive. One user on r/fasting reported experiencing heart palpitations and irregular heartbeat around hour 28 of an attempted 48-hour fast, causing them to break their fast early. With 69 comments, this post sparked a crucial conversation about fasting safety.
Heart irregularities during extended fasting can stem from several factors: electrolyte imbalances (particularly potassium, magnesium, and sodium), dehydration, or underlying cardiovascular conditions that fasting may exacerbate. The community’s advice was clear — if you experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or dizziness during a fast, break it immediately and consult a doctor.
For anyone planning extended fasts beyond 24 hours, electrolyte supplementation is non-negotiable. A quality electrolyte supplement can prevent the mineral deficiencies that lead to heart rhythm issues. Products like LMNT electrolyte packets or magnesium and potassium supplements are popular choices among experienced fasters.
Key takeaway: Extended fasting is powerful but not without risks. Listen to your body, supplement electrolytes, and never push through heart-related symptoms.
4. Green Beans: The Most Underrated Keto Vegetable of 2026
Over on r/keto, a seemingly simple post about green beans generated 32 comments and 117 upvotes. The poster argued that green beans are the most overlooked vegetable in the keto diet — versatile, easy to prepare, and a welcome break from the broccoli-and-cabbage monotony that many keto dieters experience.
The community agreed. Green beans are relatively low in carbs (about 4g net carbs per cup), high in fiber, and can be prepared dozens of ways: roasted with garlic, sautéed in butter, added to stir-fries, or even pickled for a tangy snack. They’re also one of the more affordable vegetables, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious keto followers.
One commenter noted that well-cooked green beans develop a natural sweetness that makes them almost addictive — no added sugar needed. If you’re tired of the same keto vegetables on rotation, green beans deserve a spot on your weekly meal prep list.
5. Autophagy and Skin Tightening: The Fasting Benefit Nobody Talks About
A post on r/autophagy this week drew attention to one of fasting’s most fascinating cellular processes: autophagy-driven skin tightening. The poster shared before-and-after photos suggesting that prolonged fasting helped tighten loose skin — a concern for many people who’ve lost significant weight.
Autophagy is the body’s cellular cleanup process, triggered during fasting states (typically after 16–24 hours). During autophagy, cells break down and recycle damaged components, including old proteins in the skin’s extracellular matrix. While research on autophagy and skin quality is still emerging, the anecdotal evidence from the fasting community is growing.
For those interested in maximizing autophagy, longer fasts (24–72 hours) appear to produce the most significant effects. Combining fasting with regular exercise may further enhance the process. If you’re interested in the science behind autophagy, read our deep dive on what happens during autophagy. And for those dealing with loose skin after weight loss, our guide to fasting and loose skin covers the latest approaches.
6. Extended Fasts This Week: 5-Day, 7-Day, and 86-Hour Wins
The extended fasting community had a productive week. Multiple users shared completed fasts that pushed beyond the typical 24–48 hour range:
- 5-day fast completed after 5 months of intermittent fasting practice — showing that building up to longer fasts through consistent IF is the smart approach.
- 7-day fast (162 lbs to 155.6 lbs) — though the poster admitted to struggling with sleep and energy, highlighting the importance of knowing when to break a fast.
- 86-hour water fast while working a physically demanding job in 100°F+ heat — arguably the most impressive feat of the week, with the poster reporting mental clarity and a complete transformation in how they felt.
These stories reinforce a critical lesson: extended fasting is not a competition. Each person’s body responds differently, and the decision to continue or break a fast should be based on how you feel, not on ego. The 7-day faster who broke early made the right call — listening to your body is always the correct choice.
If you’re preparing for an extended fast, proper preparation is essential. Having the right supplies — an insulated water bottle to keep water cold, electrolyte packets, and a good journal to track your progress — can make the difference between success and an early break.
7. Social Pressure While Fasting: How to Handle Pushy Friends
One of the most relatable posts this week came from a faster on day 20 of a 41-day fast who was dreading an upcoming social event. With 28 comments, the community offered practical strategies for handling social pressure to eat while fasting:
- Don’t announce your fast — the golden rule of fasting is to keep it to yourself unless necessary.
- Eat before the event — if you’re on a shorter fast, plan your eating window around social obligations.
- Have a drink in hand — holding water, black coffee, or unsweetened tea deflects most “why aren’t you eating?” questions.
- Be honest with close friends — for people who matter, a brief explanation goes a long way.
- Practice your response — having a confident, short answer ready prevents awkward conversations from spiraling.
Social pressure is one of the top reasons people break fasts early. Preparing for it — just like you prepare your body — is a sign of a disciplined faster.
8. Keto and Gout: A Warning for Meat-Heavy Dieters
A concerning post on r/keto this week detailed a 30-year-old who experienced a severe gout flare-up just three weeks into restarting keto. The post generated 65 comments and raised important questions about the relationship between high-protein keto diets and uric acid levels.
Gout occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms crystal deposits in joints. Certain keto foods — particularly red meat, organ meats, and shellfish — are high in purines, which break down into uric acid. For people predisposed to gout, a strict keto diet can trigger painful flare-ups.
The community’s advice: if you have a history of gout, monitor your uric acid levels when starting keto, stay well-hydrated, and consider moderating your intake of high-purine foods. Consulting with a doctor before starting keto is especially important if you have any history of kidney stones or gout.
How to Apply This Week’s Lessons to Your Fasting Journey
Whether you’re inspired by the 171-pound transformation or cautious after the cardiovascular concerns post, here are three actionable steps you can take this week:
- Simplify your approach. The biggest wins this week came from simple, repeatable habits — not complicated protocols. Pick one fasting window and stick with it for 30 days.
- Prioritize electrolytes. If you’re fasting beyond 16 hours, supplement with sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Your heart will thank you.
- Rotate your vegetables. If you’re on keto, add green beans to your rotation this week. Your taste buds (and your macros) will appreciate the variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can you lose with OMAD and keto?
Results vary significantly based on starting weight, activity level, and adherence. The 171-pound loss in 8 months documented this week represents an extreme case starting from over 500 pounds. Most people can expect to lose 1–2 pounds per week with consistent OMAD and keto, though initial water weight loss may be higher.
Is it safe to fast for more than 24 hours?
Extended fasting (24–72+ hours) can be safe for most healthy adults, but it requires preparation. Electrolyte supplementation is essential, and you should break your fast immediately if you experience heart palpitations, severe dizziness, or chest pain. People with diabetes, eating disorders, or heart conditions should consult a doctor before attempting extended fasts.
What are the best vegetables for a keto diet?
Leafy greens (spinach, kale), broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, and — as this week’s community highlighted — green beans are all excellent keto-friendly vegetables. Aim for variety to get a broad spectrum of nutrients while keeping net carbs under 20–50g per day.
How do I handle social pressure while fasting?
The most effective strategy is discretion — don’t announce your fast unless necessary. Keep a drink in hand, eat your meals around social events when possible, and have a brief, confident explanation ready for close friends and family who notice your eating patterns.
Can fasting help tighten loose skin after weight loss?
Anecdotal evidence from the fasting community suggests that autophagy — the cellular cleanup process triggered during fasting — may help improve skin elasticity. While scientific research is still limited, combining extended fasts with proper hydration, collagen supplementation, and resistance training appears to produce the best results.
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