Fasting has been practiced for centuries whether for religious cultural or health reasons But did you know that science backs up the incredible benefits of fasting From boosting metabolism to improving brain function fasting has profound effects on the human body Let us explore how fasting works at a cellular level and why it might be the key to better health and longevity
When you fast your body shifts from using glucose sugar as its primary energy source to burning stored fat This metabolic switch known as ketosis leads to weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity Studies show that intermittent fasting can regulate blood sugar levels reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and enhance fat oxidation
Fasting triggers a process called autophagy where your cells remove damaged components and recycle them This natural detoxification process helps reduce inflammation and may prevent diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s Nobel Prize winning research by Yoshinori Ohsumi highlighted the importance of autophagy in cellular health and longevity
Your brain thrives when you fast Fasting increases the production of brain derived neurotrophic factor BDNF a protein that supports cognitive function memory and learning Additionally fasting reduces oxidative stress and inflammation which can lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
Research suggests that fasting strengthens the immune system by regenerating white blood cells In fact prolonged fasting can promote the production of new immune cells enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections Additionally fasting has been linked to increased lifespan by reducing oxidative damage and improving cellular resilience