Sep 29, 2023, 06:16 PM IST

8 Health benefits of keeping fast at least once a week

Khushi Patel

Weight Management

A calorie deficit brought about by fasting can help with weight loss or weight maintenance. For instance, intermittent fasting limits eating to certain times of the day, which makes it simpler for certain people to consume less calories

Improved Insulin Sensitivity

By improving insulin sensitivity, fasting may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. In several trials, intermittent fasting was found to reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance

Heart Health

By lowering risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammatory indicators, fasting can help improve heart health. In turn, this may reduce the risk of developing cardiac disorders

Brain Health

According to some research, fasting may encourage the development of new nerve cells and shield the brain from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. A protein linked to cognitive function and mood modulation called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can also be enhanced by fasting

Autophagy

Autophagy, a cellular cleaning process in which the body eliminates unhealthy cells and replaces them with new, healthy ones, is triggered by fasting. This procedure is believed to help guard against a number of diseases, including cancer

Improved Metabolism

Increased metabolic rate and higher energy expenditure may result from fasting. This may aid in the process of losing weight and promote good metabolic health

Inflammation Reduction

Numerous health problems, such as autoimmune illnesses, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases, are associated with chronic inflammation. Inflammation-related biomarkers can be decreased by fasting, potentially lowering the risk of afflicted diseases

Longevity

According to several animal research, calorie restriction and intermittent fasting may increase lifespan. The mechanisms connected to fasting may increase longevity, though further study in humans is required