Can Kids Do Intermittent Fasting?

As intermittent fasting has become more common among adults, many parents ask: "Could this help my child lose weight, too?"

The simple answer: No, intermittent fasting is not recommended or appropriate for children or teens.

Here’s why—and what we recommend instead to support your child’s health and confidence.

Why Intermittent Fasting Isn’t Right for Kids

Children and teens are still growing. Their bodies need consistent nourishment throughout the day to:

• Support brain development and learning

• Promote healthy bone and muscle growth

• Provide stable energy for activity and sports

• Regulate mood and behavior

• Develop lifelong habits around food and body image

Restricting food intake through fasting—especially skipping breakfast—can work against these goals.

The Power of Protein in the Morning

One of the best ways to support your child’s hunger and focus throughout the day?
A balanced breakfast that includes protein.

Protein in the morning helps:

• Stabilize blood sugar

• Prevent mid-morning crashes

• Reduce hunger later in the day

• Support better focus at school

When kids skip meals or go too long without eating, they’re more likely to feel overly hungry—leading to less nutritious, highly rewarding food choices (think chips, sweets, or fast food) later on.

The Bigger Risk: Disordered Eating & Eating Disorders

Perhaps the most serious concern with intermittent fasting in kids is the increased risk of disordered eating and full-blown eating disorders.

Restrictive eating patterns—like fasting, skipping meals, or food rules—can create:

• Obsession with food

• Anxiety around eating

• Secretive or binge eating behaviors

• A cycle of guilt, restriction, and overeating

• Long-term emotional distress

Eating disorders are serious medical conditions that can begin in childhood and adolescence—and early patterns of restriction can be a major trigger.

As a pediatric obesity specialist, I help families promote health without shame, fear, or restriction.

What Can Parents Do Instead?

Instead of focusing on fasting, we support families in building nourishing, sustainable routines:

• 🍽️ Regular meals and snacks

• 🥚 A protein-rich breakfast

• 🥦 Nutrient-dense foods kids enjoy

• 💧 Plenty of water

• 🚶‍♀️ Movement, sleep, and positive routines

• 💬 Open, non-judgmental conversations about health—not weight

These strategies help kids feel better, grow strong, and build a positive relationship with food and their bodies.

You’re Not Alone

If you're concerned about your child’s weight, energy, or eating patterns, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

At Evora for Kids, I work with families to create personalized, compassionate plans grounded in science—and empathy.

📧 info@evoramed.com
🌐 www.evoraforkids.com

Let’s raise healthy kids—physically and emotionally.