What Happens When We Fast (According to Medical Professionals)
Fasting has been an integral part of spiritual practices across various cultures and religions for centuries. From the Christian tradition of Lent to Ramadan in Islam, to various forms of fasting in Hinduism and Buddhism, to Ugani and other forms of fasting in Odinani, abstaining from food and drink for a set period has been seen as a path to spiritual purification and enlightenment.
Fasting is believed to bring clarity, enhance spiritual connection, and promote discipline. However, beyond the spiritual benefits, fasting has garnered significant attention from the medical community for its potential health benefits. But what exactly happens in our bodies during a fast? In this blog post we will highlight what happens to our bodies when we fast, as explained by medical professionals, and how these changes tie into spiritual practice.
Important Note: We do not recommend dry fasting, which is fasting without taking water. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining your health during a fast. Also, those with medical conditions should please consult with their doctors before undertaking any form of fasting.
Introduction to Fasting
Fasting is the voluntary abstention from food and sometimes drink for a specific period. While spiritual fasting usually has a religious or philosophical underpinning, medical fasting is primarily undertaken for its potential health benefits. The medical community has increasingly studied fasting's effects, which has revealed a host of physiological changes and benefits that can result from this practice.
The Science Behind Fasting (With Spiritual Insights)
When we fast, several biological processes kick into gear that can have immense effects on our health. Here’s a detailed look at what happens in our bodies during fasting, according to medical professionals.
1. Initial Hours: Glycogen Breakdown (Metabolic Shift and Ketosis)
Glycogen Depletion: In the initial stages of fasting, typically within the first 12 hours, the body uses its glycogen stores in the liver and muscles for energy. Glycogen is the stored form of glucose, the primary energy source for our cells.
Ketosis: Once glycogen stores are depleted, the body shifts to burning fat for energy, a state known as ketosis. During ketosis, fatty acids are converted into ketones, which can be used by the brain and other tissues as an alternative source of energy. This metabolic shift usually occurs after 16-24 hours of fasting and is one of the key mechanisms through which fasting promotes weight loss and improves metabolic health.
Spiritual Insight: The depletion of glycogen mirrors the initial struggle and effort required in spiritual practices as one moves away from material comforts and distractions. The transition to ketosis reflects a deeper level of inner cleansing and the mind's heightened state of awareness, which enables better meditation and spiritual connection.
2. Autophagy Activation
Autophagy: This is a cellular process that involves the degradation and recycling of damaged or dysfunctional cellular components. Fasting induces autophagy, which helps to clear out cellular debris, reduce inflammation, and improve cellular function. This process is thought to play a role in aging and the development of various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Spiritual Insight: Autophagy can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual purification, where one sheds negative influences and past traumas, leading to a renewed and more spiritually attuned self.
3. Insulin Sensitivity and Blood Sugar Regulation
Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Fasting can enhance the body’s ability to respond to insulin and manage blood sugar levels effectively. Improved insulin sensitivity reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and benefits those who already have the condition.
Spiritual Insight: Just as the body becomes more sensitive to insulin, spiritual fasting can make one more receptive to spiritual insights and divine guidance.
4. Hormonal Changes
Human Growth Hormone (HGH): Fasting increases the secretion of human growth hormone, which plays a key role in muscle growth, fat metabolism, and overall body composition.
Norepinephrine: Fasting also boosts the release of norepinephrine, a hormone and neurotransmitter that increases alertness and fat breakdown.
Spiritual Insight: These hormonal changes can heighten spiritual experiences, as increased alertness and focus make it easier to enter deeper states of meditation and mindfulness.
5. Reduction in Inflammation
Lower Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Fasting reduces markers of inflammation in the body, potentially lowering the risk of developing these chronic diseases.
Spiritual Insight: Reduced inflammation can symbolize the calming of the inner turmoil and stress, making room for a peaceful state conducive to spiritual practices.
6. Cardiovascular Health
Reduced Blood Pressure: Fasting helps lower blood pressure, it reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Improved Cholesterol Levels: Fasting can improve cholesterol levels by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and increasing HDL (good cholesterol).
Lower Triglycerides: Fasting also reduces triglyceride levels, which are fats in the blood associated with increased heart disease risk.
Spiritual Insight: The improvement in heart health can be seen as the strengthening of one's spiritual core, aligning the physical and spiritual heart.
7. Brain Health
Increased Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF): Fasting can increase levels of BDNF, a protein that supports neuron growth and function, essential for learning and memory.
Neuroprotection: The metabolic shift to ketosis and the process of autophagy protect the brain from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Spiritual Insight: Improved brain health supports deeper spiritual understanding and cognitive clarity, which are essent for engagement of spiritual practices.
Practical Tips for Fasting
Types of Fasting
Intermittent Fasting (IF): Involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, such as the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8-hour window).
Extended Fasting: Lasts for 24 hours or more and is typically done less frequently.
Alternate-Day Fasting: Involves fasting every other day, with normal eating on non-fasting days.
Hydration and Electrolytes
Staying hydrated is very important during fasting. Drink plenty of water, and consider consuming electrolytes to maintain balance and prevent dehydration.
Gradual Transition
If you're new to fasting, start gradually. Begin with shorter fasting periods and slowly increase the duration as your body adapts.
In Conclusion
Fasting is not only a spiritual practice but also a powerful tool for improving health, as supported by extensive medical research. We can appreciate its potential benefits, from improved metabolic health and reduced inflammation to improved brain function and cardiovascular health by understanding the physiological changes that occur during fasting. While fasting may not be suitable for everyone, those who can safely incorporate it into their lifestyle may find it a valuable practice for both body and mind. As always, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new fasting regimen.
In your next fasting journey, remember that each physiological change mirrors a spiritual transformation that can guide you towards greater inner peace and connection with the divine. Always stay hydrated and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any medical conditions before starting a fast.
Recommended Resources:
Fasting For Survival Lecture by Dr Pradip Jamnadas | The Galen Foundation (YouTube)
3 DAY WATER FASTING---Clean the brain and reset your Energy (YouTube)
