What is fasting and where does it come from?#
Fasting is the voluntary, conscious abstention from food and luxuries to give the body a rest. For a limited time, eating and drinking are avoided. People have been fasting for centuries for various reasons. In ancient Egypt, the healing effects of fasting were already discussed. Excessive food intake makes people sluggish and tired, and willingness to help others declines because no one wants to go without. For this reason, fasting is a commandment in many cultures. During fasting periods, people turn inward and the soul is cleansed. Fasting is also a fixed part of all religions, during which those fasting focus on their faith and draw closer to God.
What happens in the body when you fast?#
Fasting has many benefits for body and mind. When fasting, the body’s metabolism changes and important changes occur. Fasting can protect against many illnesses and does the body good. Here are some important changes that occur during fasting.
Improved insulin sensitivity#
Insulin is a hormone that regulates your blood sugar by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells. When you fast, your body has to draw on other energy sources such as stored carbohydrates or fat reserves. During fasting, insulin sensitivity improves, which means the body can respond more effectively to insulin and reduce blood sugar fluctuations.
Detoxification#
When you fast, your body can eliminate toxins and harmful substances faster and more efficiently. Detoxification processes in the liver and intestines are especially improved during fasting. So fasting helps your body detox particularly well. If you want to rid your body of toxins, you should fast regularly.
Weight loss#
Through fasting, you can lose a remarkable amount of weight in a short time. Since the body draws energy from fat reserves when food is withheld, you’ll automatically lose weight while fasting. So if you’re struggling to lose weight, fasting can help.
Reduced inflammation#
Fasting can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation can play a role in illness, and when it’s reduced in the body, you’ll also get sick less often. When you fast, the body is freed from inflammation and you won’t fall ill as frequently.
Improved memory function#
Regular fasting improves memory function and protects the brain from neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s — so fasting is beneficial. If you want to strengthen your memory and protect yourself from Alzheimer’s, you should fast more often.
In principle, almost anyone can fast as long as there are no health concerns. People with diabetes, liver or kidney disease, or heart conditions should definitely contact a doctor. Before fasting, a doctor should be consulted to determine whether fasting is risky for them.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not fast, as their bodies need special nutrients and fasting can lead to malnutrition.
People taking prescription medication should also consult their doctor first.