Fasting may provide several health benefits, including weight loss, blood sugar control, and protection against medical conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Despite its recent surge in popularity, fasting is a practice that dates back centuries and plays a central role in many cultures and religions.
Defined as abstinence from all or some foods or drinks for a set period, there are many different ways of fasting.
Here are five health benefits of fasting — backed by science.
Several studies have found that fasting may improve blood sugar control, which may be helpful for those at risk of developing diabetes.
Decreasing insulin resistance can increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing it to transport glucose from your bloodstream to your cells more efficiently.
Coupled with the potential blood sugar-lowering effects of fasting, this could help keep your blood sugar steady, preventing spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels.
2. Aids weight loss bly limiting calorie intake and boosting metabolism.
Many dieters experiment with fasting to try to lose weight.
Theoretically, abstaining from all or certain foods and beverages should decrease your overall calorie intake, which could lead to increased weight loss over time.
3. May boost brain function and prevent neurodegeneretive disorders.
Though research is mostly limited to animal research, several studies have found that fasting could have a powerful effect on brain health.
Because fasting may also help relieve inflammation, it could also aid in preventing neurodegenerative disorders.
4. May enhance heart health by improving blood pressure and cholestrol levels.
Heart disease is considered the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for an estimated 19 million Trusted Source deaths globally in 2020.
Switching up your diet and lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of heart disease.
Some research has found that incorporating fasting into your routine may be especially beneficial for heart health.
5. Promotes better health by reducing inflammation.
While acute inflammation is a natural immune process used to help fight off infections, chronic inflammation can seriously affect your health.
ResearchTrusted Source shows that inflammation may be involved in the development of chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Some studies have found that fasting can help decrease levels of inflammation and promote better health.
