Whether you’re a religious person or not, surely you’ve heard about the practice of fasting. Both religious and non-religious people can choose to engage in fasting, meaning the practice of abstaining from food and drink for a specific period of time. The benefits for the human body can be amazing.
Fasting has often been associated with religious observances and spiritual practices, but again, you don’t necessarily have to be religious and spiritual to get into fasting. This practice has gained a lot of attention from scientists in recent years because of its potential health benefits beyond the traditional contexts.
Let’s find out some of the most important research-backed ways in which fasting can impact human health in a positive way:
Improved heart health
Fasting has been associated with a few cardiovascular benefits, such as reduced cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, as well as improved markers of heart health. According to various studies, fasting may help reduce the risk of heart disease by fostering weight loss, improving insulin sensitivity, as well as reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Weight loss and improved metabolism
You don’t need to be the reincarnation of Einstein to realize that fasting can trigger calorie deficit, fostering weight loss. Furthermore, fasting has proven to enhance metabolic health by improving insulin sensitivity, promoting fat burning, and reducing blood sugar levels. Some forms of fasting, such as intermittent fasting, have become popular for their effectiveness in helping with weight loss and improving metabolic health.
Brain health and cognitive function
A wise man once said that the brain is like a muscle, as it needs to be trained in order to have a sharp mind over the years. Well, fasting won’t keep you smart and talented, but it can definitely help you maintain some level of mental health. Fasting can grant neuroprotective effects, fostering brain health and, therefore, cognitive function. The practice of fasting may even offer protection against neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s by reducing inflammation, the accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain, and oxidative stress. Furthermore, people who fast regularly also tend to be more focused, have a better mood, and a better clarity in their minds. A lot of people out there in the world deal with what is commonly known as “brain fog,” meaning the incapacity of maintaining focus over extended periods of time. Therefore, it’s great to know that fasting can help these people out!
Enhanced cellular repair and longevity
When a person goes through fasting, the body will undergo autophagy, meaning a process in which cells remove damaged components and recycle them to gain energy. Autophagy has been linked to various health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, improved cellular repair, and even enhanced longevity. In other words, fasting may even offer anti-aging effects and help protect against age-related diseases.
Better immune function
Fasting has also been shown to modulate the immune system, fostering immune function and reducing inflammation. The process of fasting may even help strengthen the immune response to infection and diseases by stimulating the production of immune cells and enhancing their ability to fight off pathogens.
Whether you are determined to try fasting or not, it’s important to approach the practice with caution and under the guidance of healthcare professionals.
