Running. Cooking. Yoga. Life

Namaste!

A try to fast at least a few times a year, and now is one of those times!  I am fasting for day, but in the near future I would like to try fasting for longer and reap the benefits of this cleansing technique.  So for all of you who may be curious about fasting or wanting to try it, here are some benefits of fasting.  Well, first I would just like to say something:

During a fast, a person needs to consume adequate calories for health in order to avoid becoming malnourished. If not done correctly, doctors warn that fasting may be dangerous to one’s health. Some people experience headaches or joint pain during the first few days. Other adverse effects of fasting may include fatigue, dizziness, and weakness. If you feel tired or weak during a fast, you should rest. A juice fast is considered to be a safer alternative because the body gets enough nutrients. Fruit and vegetable juices are also easy to digest.   Basically, you know your own body and you should be watching how you feel.

Fasting actually begins within the first 12 — 24 hours of not eating, when the body begins to chemically break down fat to use as energy.

The possible health benefits of fasting are thought to be many and include improved immune system function, increased energy, and an overall sense of well-being. The physiological benefits of fasting have been known to lower systolic blood pressure, body temperature, and cholesterol, in addition to lowering glucose levels in the blood. The body’s metabolic rate also slows during a fast, allowing it to conserve energy, thereby contributing to the healing process.

Addictions to drugs such as alcohol, cocaine, nicotine and caffeine are examples where fasting can dramatically reduce the often protracted withdrawal symptoms that prevent many people from becoming drug-free.  Most people are surprised at how easy it is to quit smoking or drinking with the help of fasting.
 
Fasting can often be especially important in situations where drugs or surgery have been recommended.  When uterine fibroid tumors contribute to pain and excess bleeding, a hysterectomy — removal of the uterus — is often recommended.  A proper fast will often dramatically reduce the size and effect of these tumors.
 
Back and neck pain are remarkably responsive to conservative care. It is interesting to note that often patients with chronic pain who have received extensive treatment, including drugs, surgery and manipulation, will experience dramatic improvement through the use of fasting.

Most cases of cardiovascular disease are also responsive to conservative care.  In 154 consecutive cases of high blood pressure [hypertension] that they have fasted, 151 (98%) have been able to achieve and maintain normal blood pressure without the use of medications.

Disturbances of the gastrointestinal system — including esophagitis, gastritis, colitis, constipation, bloating, usually respond well fasting.

Finally, the most scientifically proven advantage to fasting is the feeling of rejuvenation and extended life expectancy. Part of this phenomenon is caused by a number of the benefits mentioned above. A slower metabolic rate, more efficient protein production, an improved immune system, and the increased production of hormones contributes to this long-term benefit of fasting. In addition to the Human Growth Hormone that is released more frequently during a fast, an anti-aging hormone is also produced more efficiently.

In conclusion, it seems that there are many reasons to consider fasting as a benefit to one’s health. The body rids itself of the toxins that have built up in our fat stores throughout the years. The body heals itself and repairs all the damaged organs during a fast.  Also, personally, I have found that I feel great after a fast.  If you plan on fasting, make sure that you ease yourself back into eating - don’t start feasting right away.  It is suggested to ease yourself back with soups, fruit, etc.

Namaste and take care!

Lyla