Fasting produces predictable stages: initial hunger that often fades, a stable period as fuel sources shift, meal-time ghrelin waves, then clarity as ketones rise. Research by Cummings shows ghrelin peaks and falls at habitual meal times even without food — hunger comes in waves, not a continuous climb. Waiting out a wave often brings relief.
This companion covers the early hours, the transition, meal-time waves, the metabolic shift at 12-16 hours, and what to expect with practice. (3 min read)