Have you heard of intermittent fasting?
No? many people haven’t and those that haven’t heard of it or looked into it will think of those giving it a go or making it their way of life are simply starving themselves. BUT there is a lot of evidence to show that this isn’t the case.
Intermittent fasting seems to have a lot of benefits that are worth looking into and exploring and I’m going to tell you here just a few of them.
Here you’ll see the BBC have published some evidence to show how intermittent fasting can help with a number of medical conditions, many peoples first focus is weight loss.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-48478529
Trust me it isn’t just weight loss
According to healthline there is evidence of the 8 known benefits of intermittent fasting
Promotes Blood Sugar Control by Reducing Insulin Resistance
This is great news for diabetics. Several studies have found that fasting may improve blood sugar control, which could be especially useful for those at risk of diabetes.
Promotes Better Health by Fighting Inflammation
Research shows that inflammation may be involved in the development of chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer and rheumatoid arthritis
May Enhance Heart Health by Improving Blood Pressure, Triglycerides and Cholesterol Levels
Heart disease is considered the leading cause of death around the world, accounting for an estimated 31.5% of deaths globally. Switching up your diet and lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of heart disease.
May Boost Brain Function and Prevent Neurodegenerative Disorders
Animal studies show that fasting could improve brain function, increase nerve cell synthesis and protect against neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s.
Aids Weight Loss by Limiting Calorie Intake and Boosting Metabolism
Fasting may increase metabolism and help preserve muscle tissue to reduce body weight and body fat.
Increases Growth Hormone Secretion, Which Is Vital for Growth, Metabolism, Weight Loss and Muscle Strength
Human growth hormone (HGH) is a type of protein hormone that is central to many aspects of your health. Studies show that fasting can increase levels of human growth hormone (HGH), an important protein hormone that plays a role in growth, metabolism, weight loss and muscle strength.
Could Delay Aging and Extend Longevity
Several animal studies have found promising results on the potential lifespan-extending effects of fasting.
In one study, rats that fasted every other day experienced a delayed rate of aging and lived 83% longer than rats that didn’t fast
May Aid in Cancer Prevention and Increase the Effectiveness of Chemotherapy
Some animal and test-tube studies suggest that fasting could block tumor development and increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
The Bottom Line
Fasting is a practice that has been associated with a wide array of potential health benefits, including weight loss, as well as improved blood sugar control, heart health, brain function and cancer prevention.
From water fasting to intermittent fasting and calorie restriction, there are many different types of fasting that fit nearly every lifestyle.
When coupled with a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle, incorporating fasting into your routine could benefit your health.
To read all of this healthline article please follow this link
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fasting-benefits#section11
If you want to know more about how it actually works I recommend any readings and the blog of Gin Stevens, her books delay don’t deny and fast, feast repeat it a great eye opener and her audio books are definitely two of my favourites.
http://www.ginstephens.com/
My final link to the subject is a BBC programme with the well known Michael Mosely on BBC Horizon, a good watch to just show some of you that this really isn’t all mumbo jumbo
https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01lxyzc/horizon-20122013-3-eat-fast-and-live-longer
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