Ramadan 2013 | Ramadan 1434
Many people observe fasting as a religious obligation, but only few know
the health benefits it has. Fasting is a good practice, if properly
implemented. It promotes elimination of toxins from the body, reduces
blood sugar ans fat stores. It promote healthy eating habits and boost
immunity.
Here are top 10 health benefits you ca derive from fasting:
1) Fasting Promotes Detoxification
Processed foods contain lots of additives. These additives may become
toxins in the body. Some of them promote 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.
2) Fasting Rests the Digestive System
During fasting, the digestive organs rest. The normal physiologic
functions continue especially production of digestive secretions, but at
reduced rates. This exercise helps to maintain balance of fluids in the
body. Breakdown of food takes place at steady rates. Release of energy
also follows a gradual pattern. Fasting however does not stop production
of acids in the stomach. This is reason patients with peptic ulcer are
advised to approach fasting with caution. Some experts believe they
should not fast.
3) Fasting Resolves the Inflammatory Response
Some studies show that fasting promotes resolution of inflammatory
diseases and allergies. Examples of such inflammatory diseases are
rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis and skin diseases such as psoriasis.
Some experts assert that fasting may promote healing of inflammatory
bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis.
4) Fasting Reduces Blood Sugar
Fasting increases breakdown of glucose so that the body can get energy.
It reduces production of insulin. This rests the pancreas. Glucagon is
produced to facilitate the breakdown of glucose. The outcome of fasting
is a reduction in blood sugar.
5) Fasting Increases Fat Breakdown
The first response of the body to fasting is break down of glucose. When
the store of glucose is exhausted, ketosis begins. This is break down
of fats to release energy. The fats stored in kidney and muscles are
broken down to release energy.
6) Fasting Corrects High Blood Pressure
Fasting is one of the non-drug methods of reducing blood pressure. It
helps to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is clogging
of arteries by fat particles. During fasting glucose and later, fat
stores are used to produce energy. Metabolic rate is reduced during
fasting. The fear-flight hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline
are also reduced. This keeps the metabolic steady and within limits. The
benefit is a reduction in blood pressure.
7) Fasting Promotes Weight Loss
Fasting promotes rapid weight loss. It reduces the store of fats in the
body. However fasting is not a good weight loss strategy. Reducing fat
and sugar intake, and increasing fruits and rest are better measures to
achieve weight reduction.
8) Fasting Promotes Healthy Diet
It has been observed that fasting reduces craving for processed foods.
It promotes desire for natural foods, especially water and fruits. This
is one way fasting promote healthy lifestyle.
9) Fasting Boosts Immunity
When an individual is on balanced diet in between fasts, this can boost
immunity. Elimination of toxins and reduction in fat store also helps
the body. When individuals take fruits to break a fast, they increase
the body's store of essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamins A and E
are good antioxidants readily available in fruits. They help to boost
immunity.
10) Fasting May Help to Overcome Addictions
Some authors show that fasting can help addicts reduce their cravings,
for nicotine, alcohol, caffeine and other substance abuse. Although
there are other regimens required to resolve addictions, fasting can
play a role.
Labels: Ramadan Healthy Eating
