I think you’re getting a little loosey-goosey with the term “fast.” Skipping a meal isn’t fasting. I see it as going a day or longer without food or nutrient-laden drinks. 24 hours.
Not simply skipping a meal. I’m talking about Intermittent Fasting.
I don’t eat anything and only drink water from 10:00 pm to 6:00 pm the next day. This keeps my weight constant without having to reduce calories or carbs.
When I overindulge, typically around the holidays, I can go 36-60 hours without food when fasting to start a weight loss diet. Doesn’t happen very often, but I do it when necessary.