The Health Benefits of Fasting
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Salaam
Please submit only valid findings/ research in support of this topic with names of researchers and their department etc; no speculations.The Health Benefits of Fasting
Submitted by SerendipUpdate on Tue, 01/15/2008 - 1202pm
Biology 103 1994-2005Biology 103
2002 First Paper
On SerendipThe Health Benefits of Fasting
Will Carroll
There has been much contention in the scientific field about whether or not fasting is beneficial to one's health. Fasting is an integral part of many of the major religions including Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Many are dubious as to whether the physiological effects are as beneficial as the spiritual promoted by these religions. There is a significant community of alternative healers who believe that fasting can do wonders for the human body. This paper will look at the arguments presented by these healers in an attempt to raise awareness of the possible physiological benefits that may result from fasting.
Fasting technically commences within the first twelve to twenty-four hours of the fast. A fast does not chemically begin until the carbohydrate stores in the body begin to be used as an energy source. The fast will continue as long as fat and carbohydrate stores are used for energy, as opposed to protein stores. Once protein stores begin to be depleted for energy (resulting in loss of muscle mass) a person is technically starving. (1)
The benefits of fasting must be preceded by a look at the body's progression when deprived of food. Due to the lack of incoming energy, the body must turn to its own resources, a function called autolysis. (2) Autolysis is the breaking down of fat stores in the body in order to produce energy. The liver is in charge of converting the fats into a chemical called a ketone body, "the metabolic substances acetoacetic acid and beta-hydroxybutyric acid" (3), and then distributing these bodies throughout the body via the blood stream. "When this fat utilization occurs, free fatty acids are released into the blood stream and are used by the liver for energy." (3) The less one eats, the more the body turns to these stored fats and creates these ketone bodies, the accumulation of which is referred to as ketosis. (4)
Detoxification is the foremost argument presented by advocates of fasting. "Detoxification is a normal body process of eliminating or neutralizing toxins through the colon, liver, kidneys, lungs, lymph glands, and skin." (5). This process is precipitated by fasting because when food is no longer entering the body, the body turns to fat reserves for energy. "Human fat is valued at 3,500 calories per pound," a number that would lead one to believe that surviving on one pound of fat every day would provide a body with enough energy to function normally. (2) These fat reserves were created when excess glucose and carbohydrates were not used for energy or growth, not excreted, and therefore converted into fat. When the fat reserves are used for energy during a fast, it releases the chemicals from the fatty acids into the system which are then eliminated through the aforementioned organs. Chemicals not found in food but absorbed from one's environment, such as DDT, are also stored in fat reserves that may be released during a fast. One fasting advocate tested his own urine, feces and sweat during an extended fast and found traces of DDT in each. (5)
A second prescribed benefit of fasting is the healing process that begins in the body during a fast. During a fast energy is diverted away from the digestive system due to its lack of use and towards the metabolism and immune system. (6) The healing process during a fast is precipitated by the body's search for energy sources. Abnormal growths within the body, tumors and the like, do not have the full support of the body's supplies and therefore are more susceptible to autolysis. Furthermore, "production of protein for replacement of damaged cells (protein synthesis) occurs more efficiently because fewer 'mistakes' are made by the DNA/RNA genetic controls which govern this process." A higher efficiency in protein synthesis results in healthier cells, tissues and organs. (7) This is one reason that animals stop eating when they are wounded, and why humans lose hunger during influenza. Hunger has been proven absent in illnesses such as gastritis, tonsillitis and colds. (2) Therefore, when one is fasting, the person is consciously diverting energy from the digestive system to the immune system.
In addition, there is a reduction in core body temperature. This is a direct result of the slower metabolic rate and general bodily functions. Following a drop in blood sugar level and using the reserves of glucose found in liver glycogen, the basal metabolic rate (BMR) is reduced in order to conserve as much energy within the body as can be provided. (2) Growth hormones are also released during a fast, due to the greater efficiency in hormone production. (7)
Finally, the most scientifically proven advantage to fasting is the feeling of rejuvenation and extended life expectancy. Part of this phenomenon is caused by a number of the benefits mentioned above. A slower metabolic rate, more efficient protein production, an improved immune system, and the increased production of hormones contributes to this long-term benefit of fasting. In addition to the Human Growth Hormone that is released more frequently during a fast, an anti-aging hormone is also produced more efficiently. (7) "The only reliable way to extend the lifespan of a mammal is under-nutrition without malnutrition." (5) A study was performed on earthworms that demonstrated the extension of life due to fasting. The experiment was performed in the 1930s by isolating one worm and putting it on a cycle of fasting and feeding. The isolated worm outlasted its relatives by 19 generations, while still maintaining its youthful physiological traits. The worm was able to survive on its own tissue for months. Once the size of the worm began to decrease, the scientists would resume feeding it at which point it showed great vigor and energy. "The life-span extension of these worms was the equivalent of keeping a man alive for 600 to 700 years." (
In conclusion, it seems that there are many reasons to consider fasting as a benefit to one's health. The body rids itself of the toxins that have built up in our fat stores throughout the years. The body heals itself, repairs all the damaged organs during a fast. And finally there is good evidence to show that regulated fasting contributes to longer life. However, many doctors warn against fasting for extended periods of time without supervision. There are still many doctors today who deny all of these points and claim that fasting is detrimental to one's health and have evidence to back their statements. The idea of depriving a body of what society has come to view as so essential to our survival in order to heal continues to be a topic of controversy.
http//serendip.brynmawr.edu/exchange/node/1834/
Further studies;- The Myriad Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
Fasting is one way to have your cake and eat it too. Beyond the already proven benefits of a Primal Blueprint low-carb lifestyle, fasting once in a while seems to offer many of the same benefits of calorie restriction ? you know, stuff like increased longevity, neuroprotection, increased insulin sensitivity, stronger resistance to stress, some cool effects on endogenous hormone production, increased mental clarity, plus more - but without the active, agonizing restriction...
?Fasting? was the top search term for MDA last week, and I hadn?t done a big post on it in a while, so I thought I?d do a comprehensive rundown of all the benefits (some conclusive, others prospective) you can expect to obtain from IF
Read more http//www.marksdailyapple.com/health-benefits-of-intermittent-fasting/#ixzz22VTVkcrA
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Fast Treat
?Fasting is simply a process of deep physiological rest. This rest period helps you rebuild functioning power and recover from the energy dissipation caused by hectic daily schedules and abusive living habits.? - Frank Sabatino, D.C., Ph.D. -
Fasting - A blessing of good health
Undoubtedly, fasting is a great way to kick-start the body?s self-healing properties into action and enjoy the blessing of good health
?Under qualified and experienced supervision, fasting is the greatest gift which can be given to an overburdened, sick body without benefit of any other form of therapy or treatment.?- William Esser, N.D., D.C.
Read more Benefits of Fasting | Medindia http//www.medindia.net/news/healthwatch/benefits-of-fasting-53257-1.htm#ixzz22VPOkDY8 -
What are the Health Benefits of Fasting?
by Monica Reinagel, M.S.,L.D./N.
About the Host
Nutrition Diva host Monica Reinagel is a board-certified Licensed Nutritionist and a professionally-trained chef. She has authored four books on health and nutrition and her advice is regularly featured on television, radio, on the web, and in the nation?s leading newspapers and magazines. Monica is also a professional opera singer who regularly dresses up in outlandish costumes, steps onto a stage, and rips off an aria or two.
Monica is a three-time winner of the Gold Hermes Creative Award in feature writing!
http//nutritiondiva.quickanddirtytips.com/benefits-of-fasting.aspx - The Myriad Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
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Salaam. Very interesting. Would this include a fast for 30 days? Or would this be considered a burden?
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Salaam. Very interesting. Would this include a fast for 30 days? Or would this be considered a burden?
Many are wary of fasting fearing unhealthy outcomes. According to A. J. Carlson, Professor of Physiology, University of Chicago, a healthy person can survive without food for 50-75 days, of course only in the absence of health problems or emotional stress. The rationale is each pound of human fat is equivalent to 3,500 calories. Even one pound of superfluous or extra fat is enough to provide the required calories for a full day of strenuous physical exertion
Religious Fasting
Those who observe religious fasting believe they derive a double benefit ?both physical and spiritual, from the practice. Perhaps the benefits of fasting were experienced since time immemorial, which is why major religions have inculcated fasting as a spiritual discipline and a devotional practice. The regimen could include juice fasting, liquid fasting, abstinence from meat and from whole meals for varying periods depending on the religion and the practitioner. Christianity encourages fasting during the Lenten season and Judaism during Yom Kippur and Tisha B?Av?the purpose being a sign of repentance, commemorative mourning and gratitude and to establish self-mastery of spirit over body.
Fasting is an integral part of Hinduism and it varies from eating only one meal during the day to refraining from taking food and water for 48 hours. Fasting for a month during the holy month of Ramadan is mandatory in Islam. Fasting in all religions promotes a sense of brotherhood and solidarity. When one goes hungry there is a greater awareness of how our needy and hungry brothers and sisters suffer from want. The very young, the very old and the ailing are however exempt from fasting in all religions.
Read more Benefits of Fasting | Medindia http//www.medindia.net/news/healthwatch/benefits-of-fasting-53257-1.htm#ixzz22VVsn67S
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as i have mentioned in other posts, fasting has benefits which has been reported in reputable medical journals.
you have cited articles that speak of benefits of intermittent fasting but can you please refer to the studies done looking at how fasting for 30 days straight has benefited the muslim community.
mormons who fast one sunday of every month have longer life span and less cardiovascular disease. any studies showing the same for the muslims? if as you say islamic fasting is beneficial, shouldn't the average muslim have a longer life span and much less cardiovascular disease than the average mormon?
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mormons who fast one sunday of every month have longer life span and less cardiovascular disease. any studies showing the same for the muslims? if as you say islamic fasting is beneficial, shouldn't the average muslim have a longer life span and much less cardiovascular disease than the average mormon?
Yes There is a group of muslims with the longest life span people of , Known all over the world for their longevity, Ismailies of HUNZA in pakistan.................err! but unfortuanately they don't fast the Muslim religeous fasting.
O well.........i tried.
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as i have mentioned in other posts, fasting has benefits which has been reported in reputable medical journals.
you have cited articles that speak of benefits of intermittent fasting but can you please refer to the studies done looking at how fasting for 30 days straight has benefited the muslim community.
mormons who fast one sunday of every month have longer life span and less cardiovascular disease. any studies showing the same for the muslims? if as you say islamic fasting is beneficial, shouldn't the average muslim have a longer life span and much less cardiovascular disease than the average mormon?
To answer your question, first of all, I would have to find a group of true muslims, who practice fasting according to the spirit of Islam. Sadly there are not many around to do a study on, but I do remember my granddad and his brothers, who were well off yet humble muslims and they were all good examples for me to follow. They all led a healthy life and died after a short illness, and my mother too lived a healthy life before she passed away in her old age.
The benefit of Islamic fasting will show only in those who try their best to live each day according to the teachings of the Qur'an and only they know how much they gain from fasting. The average Muslims that you talk about have no clue what Islamic fasting truly is most of them over eat and indulge in Ramdan?There are more than six types of dishes on the Bahraini Iftar table, which means that more than three of them will be wasted ? accounting for more than 40 per cent of food wasted daily. It can also create a health issue since people would compensate the whole day of fasting by eating extra portions of food? not to forget that most people tend to visit each other during the nights of Ramadan, resulting in more food consumption.?
http//www.greenprophet.com/2012/07/ramadan-food-waste-tips/As stated in the holy Qur?an ?Eat and drink but waste not by excess, for God loves not the wasters?.
Peace -
Yes There is a group of muslims with the longest life span people of , Known all over the world for their longevity, Ismailies of HUNZA in pakistan.................err! but unfortuanately they don't fast the Muslim religeous fasting.
O well.........i tried.
D
People of Hunza are blessed with natural surroundings and minerals including salt that cures cancer that said where do you find this in the Qur'an that muslims wil enjoy the longest life span and what do you mean by "the Muslim religeous fasting" ???
O well.........I tried too brickwall -
People of Hunza are blessed with natural surroundings and minerals including salt that cures cancer that said where do you find this in the Qur'an that muslims wil enjoy the longest life span and what do you mean by "the Muslim religeous fasting" ???
O well.........I tried too brickwallI meant they don't fast!, and yet they have such healthy and long lives. eat
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I meant they don't fast!, and yet they have such healthy and long lives. eat
I hope you go and live in Hunza vally only if they allow you in.
296 Thou wilt indeed find them, of all people, most greedy of life,-even more than the idolaters Each one of them wishes He could be given a life of a thousand years But the grant of such life will not save him from (due) punishment. For Allah sees well all that they do.
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To answer your question, first of all, I would have to find a group of true muslims, who practice fasting according to the spirit of Islam.
Peace
So you don't have any study to back what you said. Can you refer me to the Koran where God said to fast for 30 days straight in the month of Koran?
i know of muslims - pious people who would get sick from fasting. one of my family member called me telling me how after a week she felt sick and harder. i referred her to the Koran. for the first time in her life, she came to learn for herself what God said, how God wishes ease and not suffering.
To all those who claim that God made it obligatory to fast for 30 days in this month of ramadan and being so critical of those who can't fast.... remember your returning is to God and you have to answer to God.
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Salaam
I do feel the health benefits of fasting. Last month, a few days before fasting, I felt pain in the palm of my feet as I walked. As I recall, it usually happened if I just woke up from sleep and started walking.
I think it was caused by my eating habit that perhaps doesn't meet health requirements ;D and I also didn't exercise regularly... -[
However, after fasting, not long after, the pain in the palm of my feet was gone and of course my body become feels more comfortable now.
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Salaam to all.
I had a Gastric Band fitted four months ago, and I lasted 12 days. The reason I had to stop,was because I can't eat and drink at the same time I have to have 20 minute intervals. Plus the saliva was accumulating in my esophagus making it difficult to eat. I am poor, so I now have to pay over ?250 to make up my missed days? Failing that spend the whole year fasting on and off to complete the count. '( -
Salaam to all.
I had a Gastric Band fitted four months ago, and I lasted 12 days. The reason I had to stop,was because I can't eat and drink at the same time I have to have 20 minute intervals. Plus the saliva was accumulating in my esophagus making it difficult to eat. I am poor, so I now have to pay over ?250 to make up my missed days? Failing that spend the whole year fasting on and off to complete the count. '(Salaam Sister
I think we should not force ourselves to fast if we are in ill (or if we feel difficult to do so). God doesn't command what is beyond our capabilities.
Hope you get well soon and may God always grants you patience & guidance.
And if you are in financial difficulties, then I think you are most entitled to use what you have for your own goodness.
6416 Remain, then, conscious of God as best you can, ?
3910 ? verily, they who are patient in adversity will be given their reward in full, without reckoning.
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Salaam Javalatte.
Thank you so much for your kind words. Much needed at this time. )
Salaam and kindest regards. -
I am poor, so I now have to pay over ?250 to make up my missed days? Failing that spend the whole year fasting on and off to complete the count. '(
feeding the poor is not a punishment for not fasting. please try to understand the point of fasting from the Koranic perspective. remember God is understanding of your situation/condition (contrary to popular beliefs).
by the way, how did you come up with that large amount?
ok - let's take your situation for instance. you can't fast. and God says to feed the needy if you are not able to. you can skip a meal and give that meal or part of it to the needy. can't you do that? take a sandwich or can of soup or piece of bread to a homeless person. that's feeding the needy. also, God does say it is even better if you do something out of your own goodness. even if you are able to fast,still give to the needy as it is better for you and the person receiving it. you can volunteer at local soup kitchen - giving your time. sometimes just giving your time and listening, lending support to someone is more valuable than giving money.
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Salaam Javalatte.
Thank you so much for your kind words. Much needed at this time. )
Salaam and kindest regards.Thank you, Sister ) You teach me patience and sincerity.
Keep on strive to pass the test. God is with the patient ones.
Salaam group
- Nina -
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you can skip a meal and give that meal .... to the needy... take a sandwich or can of soup or piece of bread to a homeless person. that's feeding the needy.
Yes, I suppose it could indeed be the solution for those who are having difficulty to fast. Giving one portion of food (or money to buy one portion of food) for one person = be a substitute/redeemer for a day of fasting.
For example By giving 4 portions meal for (a poor family of) 4 people, then it could be the substitute/redeemer for 4 days of fasting.
That's what I can understand now. Correct me if I am wrong. Pardon if there are awkwardness on my English. )
Salaam.
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Farida,
I too have found studies and reports that say fasting is of benefit...but they all speak of abstaining from just food or types of food, never water.
I just wanted to know where your information was coming from...maybe a link so we can read all of it?
With Peace,
Amina
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Farida,
I too have found studies and reports that say fasting is of benefit...but they all speak of abstaining from just food or types of food, never water.
I just wanted to know where your information was coming from...maybe a link so we can read all of it?
With Peace,
Amina
Salaam Amina
If you look up at my posts on first page of this thread you will see that I have given several links, as these are not my words but the testimony of qualified people in the field of health and nutrition (you will find a web link under each quote).
I will say only this much; these health link were posted there to ward off the fear that fasting may be bad for us, as some people on this forum have been spreading malicious lies about the effect of fasting; other than that these are not authorities to me.
I have been fasting for many years now; much longer than you, as I am many years older than you, yet I've never found myself to be dehydrated. In fact I am surprised how quickly my body adapts to consuming less water during Ramadan.
Allah tells us that one of the purposes of fasting is to teach us self restraint; now imagine just for a minute that a person who has never fasted gets stranded with me in a place without food or drink available. Tell me who do you think will panic more; me or that person who never went a day without food or drink?
Also when you fast please do ponder upon the plight of those poor people, in Somalia for instance, who are suffering from the scarcity following drought and and are forced to walk for days, in search of food and drink, with nothing to quench their thirst or to still their hunger. Some manage to reach food and shelter whilst others die under way. They are suffering terribly while we in the west and in the rich middle eastern countries over- consume on a daily basis and waste a lot. Here we only have to go without food and drink for part of every day for a month, and yet we worry so much. If my Lord says no food and drink for a spate of time I have complete faith that my Allah would not have stopped us from drinking if doing so was harmful.Peace
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Wa Salaams Farida,
Thank you...I wasn't paying attention. The times when I think I might be ready to give up on fasting, I think of it this way It's 30 days out of 365...tough it out.
I also know of people that do other types of fasts, like not watching television or social fasts (where they dedicate an entire day to just studying or praying alone).