The Remarkable Benefits of Fasting

In almost 25 years of clinical practice, I have explored various techniques to aid my patients on their journey to wellness, many from debilitating and chronic conditions.

Amid the multitude of methods, a particular approach stands out as both cost-effective and exceptionally impactful. This technique was initially introduced to me by my father, who had experimented with it after attending lectures of the renowned naturopath Paul Bragg in the 1960s.

Although nutrition is such an important consideration for our health, ironically sometimes the absence of food can be instrumental in our recovery.

Fasting is a practice that involves voluntarily abstaining from food for a certain period and it can yield remarkable health benefits. While the methods of fasting can vary hugely, they all share a common fundamental principle: a reduction in calorie intake, to varying degrees for a set period.

An intriguing aspect of fasting is its role in cellular clean-up. When we stop eating the body makes a more assertive effort to actively target and dismantle old and dysfunctional cells, referred to as 'zombie cells’. These cells are alive in our body but not working correctly. They are continually sending out molecules that can change nearby cells into 'zombie' cells too. Their presence contributes to inflammation and ultimately the progression of chronic conditions.

This process is called ‘autophagy’, or self-eating, where the body digests the dysfunctional and diseased cells first. This cleaning process can contribute significantly to rejuvenating the body from within.

Periods of not eating can prompt our cells into repair mode. It's akin to hitting the reset button on a complex machine, recalibrating it to its original factory settings. This restoration process can yield profound health benefits, reducing inflammation and making the body run more efficiently.

Across cultures and belief systems, the wisdom of fasting holds a significant place. It's not merely perceived as a means of physical purification, but also as a practice that nurtures mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

There are many different types of fasting methods, such as intermittent fasting, water fasting and juice fasting. These all can have different effects and can target different parts of the body as well. For many a 24-hour period of abstaining from solid food, while staying hydrated with liquids, can be manageable and I often recommend it at least monthly.

Fasting benefits include:

1. Weight Management: Fasting can create a calorie deficit, which can lead to weight loss. It also promotes the breakdown of stored fat for energy, especially during extended fasts.

2. Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Fasting can enhance insulin sensitivity, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing it.

3. Cellular Repair and Autophagy: Fasting triggers autophagy, a cellular cleaning process where the body removes damaged or dysfunctional components, leading to cellular rejuvenation and improved overall health.

4. Brain Function: Some studies suggest that fasting might support brain health by promoting the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein associated with cognitive function and mood regulation. Studies are finding that intermittent fasting can increase memory both in animals and humans. 

5. Inflammation Reduction: Fasting can lower markers of inflammation in the body, particularly important in chronic inflammatory diseases. This can be particularly useful in autoimmune conditions.

6. Longevity: Intermittent fasting and appropriate caloric restriction seems to extend lifespan by promoting cellular health and resilience.

7. Gut Health: Fasting can provide the digestive system with a break, potentially allowing it to rest and repair. Moreover, fasting might positively influence the gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in overall health.

8. Increased clarity: Fasting has been a part of spiritual and religious practices for centuries. Many individuals report increased focus, clarity, and a heightened sense of mindfulness during fasting periods.

9. Hormone Regulation: Fasting can increase the production of human growth hormone (HGH), which play roles in fat burning and muscle preservation. 

At the clinic we have supported many people on therapeutic fasting, please get in touch if you would like individualised guidance and support.

Disclaimer:
It's important to note that fasting isn't suitable for everyone such as individuals with certain medical conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with a history of eating disorders. Some medication needs to be taken with food so if you want to embark on any kind of fast you should consult with a healthcare professional before attempting ‘fasting’.