I always do it and never really questioned myself about it. Lets say I am going to start a fast at 5 pm, is it okay to eat at 4:50 pm and end just minutes before 5pm? Does it count as starting a fast or should I wait like 30 minutes after eating, if that question makes any sense.
I hit the fasting timer the minute I swallow my last bite. I’ve evolved from 14:10 to 16:8 & OMAD most days. Lost 40 pounds in 4 months. I’d say starting the fasting clock immediately after eating is OK. :)
As I understand it, once you start you’ve started. You’re not actively eating and your body is now digesting those calories. You’re not necessarily in a “fasted” state but you’ve begun fasting. Idk I’m not a scientist but that’s how I’ve always seen it. Interested in what the IF scientists have to say. Sorry to not be helpful, I hope someone can answer your question better than I can.
To me, my fasting starts the minute I’ve taken my last bite of food in the evening (6pm, in my case). Just water the rest of the evening, and water and a lil black coffee til < > 2pm the next day. But yes, the moment you swallow your last bite, you’ve started your fast.