While fasting might be a new fad, many cultures and traditions have practiced fasting for thousands of years as part of their spiritual belief. Examples of this can be seen in many different parts of the world, even in modern times.
Ramadan is a time of fasting for Muslims over 30 days; Jewish people fast on Yom Kippur; here in the Americas, Native Americans typically last anywhere from 2-7 days during some of their spiritual ceremonies to provoke visions and gain clarity. Perhaps all of these traditions are what have sparked interest in the health benefits and risks involved in fasting for many scientists and doctors. Here, we are going to take a look at fasting to boost immunity.
There are several benefits to fasting. Several studies have suggested that intermittent fasting, which involves reducing or abstaining from food and drink periodically, can be good for us. This has made fasting a popular diet trend to lose weight and feel better. Fasting supports good health by promoting a healthy body weight, encouraging normal cognitive function, and even facilitating detoxification. Research shows that fasting may help reset the immune system, in this case, fasting of 2-3 days is optimum.
Fasting to Boost Immunity
Removal of waste material, detoxification, is essential for our body to function properly and to age well. During fasting, your body will remove old immune cells and regenerate new ones. This is important because our bodies are constantly subjected to wear and tear from the moment we are born. This includes factors like aging, stress, environmental toxins, and aggressive medical therapies that speed up the degradation of immune cells, making them less effective in protecting our bodies. According to doctors, this process can help reboot the immune system.
• Improved cognitive awareness
- Facilitates detoxification
- Supports a healthy body weight
- Improved digestion
Interestingly, fasting has also been proven effective at reducing inflammation in people with lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and even certain skin conditions. However, since fasting can’t be sustained for prolonged periods of time, it should not be considered a long-term treatment.
Health Risks of Fasting
As good as fasting may sound, there are also some health risks involved that are important to be aware of before starting a fast. Also, remember that fasting, like any other form of diet, is not for everyone. It’s important to talk to a professional who is familiar with fasting to help guide you through the process and to ensure your body is ready.
Fasting can increase stress levels in the body and disrupt sleep. This is especially true if you are used to having regular snacks throughout the day. Another common issue is dehydration from a lack of water intake leading up to the fast. These are things that can be avoided with sufficient preparation before starting your fast, but sometimes they are also unavoidable.
How to Start Fasting
One of the most important things to remember when you begin fasting is to start small. When you restrict food intake in your diet, it is common to experience emotional and mental imbalances due to the amount of stress on your body that you are not used to experiencing.
I have found it best to start small and slowly increase to your desired amount of time or days as your body adjusts. Intermittent fasting, alternating cycles of fasting and eating, can help you lead up to 1-3 days easier. This method slowly increases the time between meals until you can eventually go for the whole day without eating food. Remember, drink enough water during this time to stay hydrated. When you feel ready, you can embark on an extended water fast to boost the immune system even further.
If you have questions about fasting or have other health concerns, reach out to Hummingbird Wellness Boulder. We are here to help.
