The Benefits of Fasting
As we’re in the month of Ramadan, billions of Muslims will observe a religious type of intermittent fasting, spiritual reflection, and prayer. The most notable practice in Ramadan is fasting, in which Muslims refrain from food or drink from dawn to dusk.
However, there is a misconception around fasting that it can be detrimental to your health. In this blog, we explore the importance of intermittent fasting and the health benefits that come with it.
What are the different types of fasting?
Here are some of the different types of fasting:
Intermittent fasting: not eating for a prolonged period of time after a meal
Water fasting: abstaining from food and only drinking water
Juice fasting: involves drinking only fruit and vegetable juices
Partial fasting: abstaining from food and drinks for a certain period of time
What are the benefits of fasting?
Weight loss: Fasting can help you lose weight by reducing your intake of calories. When you fast, your body begins to use stored fat as fuel, which can result in weight loss.
Improved brain function: When fasting, the production of a brain hormone, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), is increased. This performs vital functions within the central nervous system. Moreover, high levels of BDNF can result in better cognitive performance and a lower risk of neurodegenerative disorders.
Increasing insulin sensitivity: It has been shown that fasting reduces insulin resistance, which plays a significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes. As the body's cells develop an immunity to the effects of insulin, the pancreas must generate more insulin to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range. This condition is known as insulin resistance. By lowering the body's need for insulin, fasting can assist in the reversal of insulin resistance.
Improved heart health: Fasting has been linked to a reduction in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation, all of which can enhance heart health and lower the risk of heart disease.
Reduction in inflammation: It has been demonstrated that fasting reduces inflammation in the body, which may also help the brain. Additionally, fasting can activate a process called autophagy, which is the body’s natural function to repair and recycle damaged cells. Furthermore, autophagy can help reduce inflammation by eliminating damaged cells that could trigger an immune response.
Even though fasting is beneficial for one's health, it may not be permissible or useful for everyone, especially those with serious health conditions, or who are taking medication.
If you are interested in fasting but have health conditions or are taking medication, it is highly recommended that you discuss with your doctor if you are eligible for fasting.
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