The Science Behind Fasting: How It Can Change Your Life

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Fasting is the practice of abstaining from food and drink for a certain period of time. It has been practiced for thousands of years in many religions for its spiritual and health reasons.

In recent years, fasting has gained a lot of attention from health enthusiasts, researchers, and medical professionals due to its potential to promote overall well-being and combat various health issues.

We will shed some light on these health benefits in this article.

1- Weight Loss: 

When you stop giving your body outside food energy, the body must find another way to survive.

Your body starts burning its carbohydrate reserve called “Glycogen” which is depleted after 8–12 hours of fasting, and then it starts burning fat stores to gain more energy.

This will ultimately result in decreased caloric intake and weight loss.

2- Ghrelin Release:

When your stomach is empty, it releases a hormone called “Ghrelin” to tell your brain that it’s time to eat. 

Ghrelin is often called the hunger hormone, but it does more than control hunger. 

It also signals your pituitary gland to release growth hormones, plays a role in insulin release, neuroprotection, bone health, blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular health, and reduces inflammation inside your body.

3- Improved Insulin Sensitivity: 

The more you put on weight, the more difficult it becomes for your cells to respond to insulin. In fact, not all diabetic patients have problems with insulin secretion. The secretion can be perfectly fine but the sensitivity of the cells is the real problem.

Simply put, insulin sensitivity means how responsive your cells are to using insulin when it is released.

Fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in both healthy individuals and those with conditions such as prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. This leads to lowering blood sugar levels and enhances the metabolic functions of the body.

4- Enhanced Cellular Repair: 

Think about it this way, your cells are very hungry so they’ll start eating everything.

Fasting triggers this cellular process called autophagy, where the body removes damaged cells and initiates the regeneration of new, healthy ones. 

This cellular cleaning process helps repair damaged tissues, prevent degenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and certain types of cancer and potentially slow down the aging process. 

5- Reduced Inflammation: 

Chronic inflammation is linked to various health issues such as heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. 

Fasting has been shown to decrease markers of inflammation in the body, potentially reducing the risk of these diseases.

6- Brain Health: 

Studies show that fasting can enhance the protection and growth of neurons by enhancing the synthesis of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

Increased BDNF levels have been associated with improved memory, learning, altertness, focus and overall brain health.

7- Cardiovascular Health: 

As discussed before, fasting will help burn fat stores inside your body which will then reduce blood pressure, triglyceride levels, and LDL cholesterol.

This will ultimately help decrease the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular function.

7- Longevity: 

Animal studies have shown that fasting has the potential to delay the onset of age-related diseases and extend lifespan by the activation of certain genes that promote longevity.

Further research is needed still in humans but animal studies are promising.

8- Mental Clarity and Focus: 

The fact that many people who practice intermittent fasting report increased mental clarity and focus may be attributed to the increased insulin sensitivity that we just discussed and the increased production of ketones which provide an alternative energy source for the brain.

9- Gut Health: 

When you fast, you give your stomach and intestine a break from their digestive function and a chance for them to rest and rejuvenate.

This is specially helpful in aiding the balance of gut bacteria and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues. It may promote a healthier gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall health and well-being.

10- Spiritual and Emotional Wellbeing: 

Fasting has long been practiced as a means of spiritual and emotional purification. 

Many people relate fasting with promoting self-discipline, mindfulness, and a sense of heightened spirituality. It can also help develop a healthier relationship with food and foster gratitude for the nourishment it provides.

Conclusion

Fasting isn’t for everyone, and if you’ve got specific medical concerns, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before doing anything. 

But let me tell you, the evidence backing up the perks of fasting is pretty convincing!

We’re talking about benefits like managing weight, getting your insulin sensitivity in check, and even helping your cells repair themselves better, which could mean a longer, healthier life.

So, if you’re looking to make the most out of this ancient practice, consider adding it into your life alongside healthy eating, regular exercise, and good sleep habits. Trust me, your body will thank you for it!