- Since the dawn of time, human beings have fasted for different reasons.
- When breaking your fast, choose nutrient-dense foods that are easy to digest, such as fruits, vegetables, and soups.
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Fasting is the practice of voluntarily abstaining from food and sometimes drinks for a specific period of time.
Since the dawn of time, human beings have fasted for different reasons.
These may include religious or spiritual purposes, weight loss, detoxification, or improving overall health. So what are the miraculous benefits of this practice?
Weight loss: According to Mayo clinic health system, fasting can help reduce calorie intake, leading to weight loss.
It appears that fasting for a short time can produce ketosis, which is a process that occurs when the body doesn't have enough glucose for energy, so it breaks down stored fat instead.
Fasting may improve insulin sensitivity, lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Fasting for at least 16 hours gives the body a chance to rest and allows blood insulin levels to drop significantly. Not only does this help burn fat, but it can also lower your risk of disease, particularly diabetes, and pre-diabetes.
It also reduces blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, which can improve overall heart health.
Fasting may help with anti-aging as well. The anti-aging impacts Intermittent fasting triggers multiple changes in your body that slow down aging by keeping cells and DNA healthy.
Fasting may stimulate the production of new white blood cells improving immune function.
Precautions to take when fasting
Avoid intense exercise and other physical activities that require a lot of energy, especially during extended fasts. Do not over-exert yourself physically.
Be aware of the signs of dehydration, If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or headaches stop the fast and drink water immediately.
If you are new to fasting, start with shorter fasts and gradually work your way up to longer fasts, as you break your fast make sure to eat light and gradually.
When breaking your fast, choose nutrient-dense foods that are easy to digest, such as fruits, vegetables, and soups.
Drink plenty of water during your fast to stay hydrated, especially if you are doing an extended fast.
People ineligible to fast are individuals who are underweight, struggling with weight gain, under 18 years of age, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
As well as individuals who have medical conditions, should not attempt an intermittent fasting diet, as they need sufficient calories daily for proper development.
Overall fasting is a practice that has a host of benefits if practiced well.