Scientific Studies Reveal Benefits of Fasting
It has been considered both as an act of worship and a method of treatment. Renowned physicians such as Hippocrates, Pythagoras and Ibn Sina (Avicenna) cured some diseases by fasting.
In recent decades, a large number of scientific studies have been conducted on the effects of fasting on human body. The US-based website Healthline has published some of the benefits of fasting proven scientifically.
According to studies, fasting from sunrise to sunset for thirty days reduces resistance to insulin and improves blood sugar control. Actually, with fasting, insulin sensitivity improves and levels of insulin drop dramatically. Lower insulin levels help glucose to move from blood to cells in the body, which will reduce blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes.
Fasting also leads to reductions in markers of inflammation, a key driver of many chronic diseases.
Another study of 110 obese adults had them practice fasting for four weeks under the supervision of doctors. The results were significantly lower blood pressure as well as cholesterol and triglycerides. This improves heart health and reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack.
By reducing calorie intake and increasing metabolism, fasting helps people lose weight. All types of diets try to help you lose weight by controlling your caloric intake, while this can be easily achieved by fasting.
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Other studies conducted on people who fast showed that the levels of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) increase by fasting. This has benefits for fat loss and muscle gain, to name a few.
Also, studies in mice reveal that the mice that fasted were less frail, had better memories and lived longer than mice that didn’t fast.
Fasting is also likely to help prevent cancer and contribute to the effects of chemotherapy.
In addition to its contribution to physical health, fasting has many mental benefits, such as helping reduce stress and enhance resilience in the face of tensions and tense situations in life.
