Fasting – A natural cure for many diseases
Fasting is abstinence from certain or all food, drink, or both for a period of time. A study suggests that a person’s entire immune system gets rejuvenated by fasting as it induces the production of new white blood cells. It has become increasingly popular specially in the health community. But dieticians are afraid to suggest eating less as it may lead to deficiency of necessary requirements of the body, if not properly followed. In Ayurveda, fasting (upavasa) has been given a greater importance.
Long term deprivation complications:
- It will lead to over indulgence.
- Body feels life threatened by being deprived of food and then wants to stock up again.
- So rather than having the desired effect, such fasting produces fear which leads to over loading of the system.
Whereas short term fasts gives the digestive system time to rest, hence beneficial.
Benefits of fasting
- Accelerates metabolism – provides a rest period for the digestive system thereby accelerating metabolism to burn the calories efficiently. Intermittent fasts can regulate your digestion and promote healthy bowel function thereby improving metabolic function.
- Cures indigestion – The best medicine that can be given for indigestion is fasting. It gives rest to digestive system, administering proper digestion for the undigested food. One meal fasting is effective in this case (applicable in primary stage of indigestion)
- To lose weight – Fasting controlled within a set number of hours allows the body to burn more fat cells.It is found more effective than just regular dieting. To be noted, regular health supplements should be provided which otherwise may lead to deficiency.
- Improves immune system – By inducing the production of white blood cells.
- Provide clear skin and prevent acne – When body is temporarily devoid of digestive activities it focuses on regenerative functions. It helps in cleansing away toxins.
- Improves brain function – Induces the production of a protein called Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor(BDNF). This factor activates brain stem cells to convert into new neurons. This protein also protects your brain cells from changes associated with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Fasting = More energy i.e. No food in digestive system makes room for more energy in the body.
There by fasting enhances longevity. Life span of people can be enhanced if they are following a healthy diet. Slower metabolism lead to ageing. That is why it is said “Passive eating is always good for health”.