5 Health Benefits of Fasting
- Supports Blood Sugar Regulation
Several studies suggest that fasting can improve blood sugar control and potentially reduce the risk of diabetes. However, gender may play a role, and further research is needed. - May Help with Disease Prevention
Fasting appears to give the body time to focus on essential functions, such as disease prevention. It may also enhance the body's ability to regulate chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. - May Support Brain Function
Animal studies show that fasting may protect against and improve outcomes in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, while also improving brain function, supporting memory and cognition.
brain processing. Similarly, animal studies suggest that fasting may protect brain health and increase neuron production. Human studies suggest that fasting may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and improve social bonds.
More research is needed to evaluate these effects, but the findings to date are encouraging. - May Slow Aging and Support Growth & Metabolism
Fasting, especially when combined with a low-protein diet, has been linked to increased lifespan in animal studies. Additionally, fasting appears to promote growth hormone levels, which play a crucial role in development, regeneration, metabolism, weight loss, muscle strength, and exercise performance. However, longevity studies are largely limited to animals, so more research is needed to understand how fasting may affect human aging. - May Aid in Weight Loss
Many people turn to fasting as a strategy for weight loss. Research suggests that controlling meal frequency or engaging in short-term fasting can help reduce body weight, fat mass, and lipid levels. Some studies also indicate that fasting enhances the body's ability to switch to fat burning, maintain muscle mass, and improve body composition in overweight individuals.
