Many of us observe fasting as a religious obligation, but
only a few know its health benefits. Fasting promotes eliminating toxins from
the body, reducing blood sugar and fat stores. It promotes healthy eating
habits and boosts immunity. Here are the top 10 health benefits we can derive
from fasting.Fasting Promotes detoxification. READ MORE. gravtechnology
Processed foods such as bread, cakes and pizza from
confectioneries contain many additives. These additives may become toxins in
the body. Some of them promote the production of advanced glycation end
products (AGEs). Most of these toxins are stored in fats. Fat is burnt during
fasting, especially when it is prolonged. And the toxins are released. The
liver, kidneys and other organs in the body are involved in detoxification.
Fasting Rests Digestive System
During fasting, the digestive organs rest. The normal
physiological functions continue, especially the production of digestive
secretions, but at reduced rates. This exercise helps to maintain the balance
of fluids in the body. The breakdown of food takes place at a steady pace. The
release of energy also follows a gradual pattern. Fasting, however, does not
stop the production of acids in the stomach. This is why patients with peptic
ulcer are advised to approach fasting with caution.
Fasting Resolves Inflammatory Response
Studies show that fasting promotes the resolution of
inflammatory diseases and allergies. Examples of such inflammatory diseases are
rheumatoid arthritis and skin diseases such as psoriasis. Some experts assert
that fasting may promote the healing of inflammatory bowel diseases such as
ulcerative colitis.
Fasting Reduces Blood Sugar
Fasting increases the breakdown of glucose so that the body
can get energy. It reduces the production of insulin. This rests on the
pancreas. Glucagon is produced to facilitate the breakdown of glucose. The
outcome of fasting is a reduction in blood sugar, which is enormously helpful,
especially for diabetes patients.
Fasting Increases Fat breakdown
The first response of the body to fasting is a breakdown of
glucose. This is a breakdown of fats to release energy. The fats stored in the
kidney and muscles are broken down to release energy. When the store of glucose
is exhausted, ketosis begins.
Fasting Corrects high blood pressure
Fasting is one of the non-drug methods of reducing blood
pressure. It especially helps cardiac patients since it helps to reduce the
risk of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the clogging of arteries by fat
particles. During fasting, glucose and, later, fat stores are used to produce
energy. The metabolic rate is reduced during fasting. The fight-or-flight
hormones, such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, are also reduced. This keeps
the metabolism steady and within limits. The benefit is a reduction in blood
pressure.
Ditch bad habits
Ramadan is the perfect time to ditch bad habits for good
since we have to observe fast the whole day. Fasting's ability to help us cut
out bad habits is so significant that the UK's National Health Service recommends
it as the ideal time to ditch smoking. Vices such as smoking and sugary foods
should not be indulged during Ramadan. When we abstain, abstain from them, our
body starts to gradually acclimatize to their absence until the addiction is
finally kicked out for good. It's also much easier to quit habits when done in
a group, which should be easy to find during Ramadan.
Fasting Promotes a Healthy diet
One of the main problems with extreme fad diets is that any
weight loss is often quickly put back on, sometimes even with a little added
extra. This isn't the case with Ramadan. The reduction in the food consumed
throughout fasting causes the stomach to shrink, meaning one needs to eat less
food to feel full gradually. It has also been observed that fasting reduces the
craving for processed foods. It promotes a desire for natural foods, especially
water and fruits. This is one-way fasting promotes a healthy lifestyle.
Lower cholesterol
A team of cardiologists in the UAE found that people
observing Ramadan enjoy a positive effect on their lipid profile, which means
there is a reduction of cholesterol in the blood. Low cholesterol increases
cardiovascular health, significantly reducing the risk of heart disease, a
heart attack, or a stroke. What's more, if a healthy diet after Ramadan is
followed, this newly lowered cholesterol level should be easy to maintain.
brain boosting
There's no doubt of the positive effects of fasting on mental
well-being and spiritual focus, but the brain-boosting powers of Ramadan are
even more significant. A study carried out by scientists in the USA found that
the mental stress achieved during Ramadan increases the level of brain-derived
neurotrophic factor, which causes the body to produce more brain cells, thus
improving brain function. Likewise, a distinct reduction in the hormone
cortisol produced by the adrenal gland means that stress levels are greatly
reduced during and after Ramadan. READ MORE. digitalfitnessworld