Fasting
is an integral part of many different religions around the globe, the
most well known probably being Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism.
In fact, the end of this week marks the beginning of the holy month
of Ramadan, when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset for an entire
thirty days.
The
Health Benefits of Fasting
“Fasting
is the greatest remedy – the physician within” - Philippus
Paracelsus
You
don't have to be religious to try fasting and reap the many health
benefits. Some people think that it's dangerous not to eat and drink
for a prolonged period of time. However, fasting has been
scientifically proven to be good for the body.
A
person is said to be fasting when they haven't eaten for at least 8
hours. You actually fast every night while you're asleep. That's
where the word breakfast comes from - breaking the fast.
Humans are not designed to be in a constantly fed state. Our ancestors often went for days without eating when there was no food available. Fasting
gives the digestive system a much needed rest, allowing the body to
detoxify itself. The liver, kidneys and colon are able to be cleansed
and the body's own healing mechanisms are triggered. Fasting may
therefore improve any medical ailment, the most common being
allergies, arthritis, asthma, digestive disorders and skin
conditions. You will also notice better mental function and clarity.
“The faculties become refined when you starve them. Why, surely, as a
doctor, my dear Watson, you must admit that what your digestion gains
in the way of blood supply is so much lost to the brain. I am a
brain, Watson. The rest of me is a mere appendix. Therefore, it is
the brain I must consider” - Sherlock Holmes
When
you fast, your body will try to conserve as much energy as possible.
One of the ways it does this is by cell regeneration – it kills old
immune cells that are no longer needed or even damaged. In
particular, prolonged fasting (at least two to four days at a time)
has been shown to reduce both the enzyme PKA, helping to increase
longevity, and the hormone IGF-1, therefore slowing down the ageing process, tumour progression
and cancer. When you start eating again, healthy new cells are
formed.
Fasting
can therefore boost your immune system and increase your life
expectancy.
If
you're a religious or spiritual person, fasting serves a higher
purpose than just the physical benefits. It can make you feel at one
with nature and the universe and help to bring you closer to God. By
practicing self-restraint and depriving ourselves of physical
desires, we can disconnect from the material world and focus our
energies inward.
“Prayer
brings us halfway to God, fasting takes us to the gateway of Heaven”
- Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
Finally,
fasting teaches us to be grateful for our food, more compassionate
for the starving people in the world and teaches us not to take
anything for granted.
People
who are generally advised not to fast include pregnant and
breastfeeding women, people with long-term illnesses such as diabetes
and the elderly and frail. If you have never fasted before, it may be
sensible to consult your doctor first to rule out any ailments that
could prevent you from doing so safely.
How
to Do it Right
Fasting
is not common in Western culture and for many people, the idea of not
eating can be a scary thought. The first day of fasting is always the
hardest and you may experience tiredness, low energy and even
headaches. You will definitely experience hunger. However, we humans
are extremely adaptable and if you push through, your body will soon
get used to it and these feelings will subside. Here are some tips to
make your fast bearable and to keep you as healthy as possible
throughout your fasting period.
1. Eat
something substantial before you start fasting that will give you
prolonged energy – a mixture of good quality protein and
slow-release carbohydrate, such as scrambled eggs on wholemeal toast.
2. It's
extremely important to stay hydrated. If you will be fasting for
Ramadan you won't be able to drink anything for approximately 18
hours a day this year. Therefore you need to ensure you drink plenty
of fluids once the sun has gone down. Try to ignore fizzy drinks that
are bad for you and drink as much water as possible.
3. Don't
break your fast with fried, greasy foods. These will make you feel
sluggish and will negate any health benefits. I know that after
having not eaten for so long you will want food that you enjoy, but
think about what your body needs. You will have to get your blood
sugar back up so eating fruit first, especially something sugar-dense
like dates, is the best option.
“Every
fool can fast, but only the wise man knows how to break a fast” -
George Bernard Shaw
4. You
will also need to eat plenty of protein for muscle growth and
regeneration and lots of vegetables to replenish the body's stores of
vitamins and minerals you might have missed out on during the day. Add
a small amount of slow-release carbs such as brown rice to fill you
up. And don't go crazy with the portion sizes! Be aware that your
stomach will shrink when you fast and too much food will put a strain
on it – so don't fill yourself to bursting!
5. Finally,
make sure to get sufficient sleep. This controls appetite so you
won't feel so hungry. It will also make you better equipped to take
on the day. Everyone feels better after a good night's sleep.
Have
you ever fasted for religious, health or medical reasons? Do you have
any tips for people interested in fasting? I'd love to hear your
stories in the comments!
If you liked this post, you might also enjoy:
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If you liked this post, you might also enjoy:
Why Fat DOESN'T Make You Fat
Self Esteem: The Key to Happiness
Please share this post via social media using the links below and subscribe to my blog by hitting the follow button!