Fasting - the practice of abstaining from food or drink for a certain amount of time - is part of various cultures and religions, and has been for thousands of years. With the rise of intermittent fasting for weight loss and improving overall health, we’re here to ask: is fasting healthy?
Guess what. There’s no easy answer. The answer depends on who’s doing the fasting and how they do it. Here’s a few fasting facts to consider:
Fasting may have some health benefits. Indeed, some studies suggest that fasting can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Studies also show that when you fast, the body turns to stored fat for energy, which is why intermittent fasting is becoming so popular. However fasting can be risky for pregnant women, people with certain medical conditions, and those with a history of disordered eating.
The downside to fasting is that it can lead to nutrient deficiencies as you won’t be getting vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients you need. So if you do fast, make sure you get adequate nutrition during non-fasting periods.
Listen to your body. Be aware of any side effects, and above all, speak to a healthcare professional if you want to try fasting, and keep it healthy.
