3 Health Benefits of Fasting

Fasting has many benefits. Most people look at the spiritual benefits of fasting which is good in itself but not enough people understand that fasting provides quite a few health benefits as well.

Toxins

Over the course of time the body builds up a lot of toxins by eating food that is processed and refined. Our environment also helps to contaminate the body with toxins whether it be from the air we breathe or the water we drink. When you fast you are helping the body to rid itself of all of these damaging toxins. Toxins can exit the body through the kidney, liver, or the skin. If we allow toxins to accumulate over time they can have long term damaging effects for our bodies.

Healing process

When we are not taking in food our bodies are allowed to heal themselves. During the fasting process all the energy within the body will focus on the metabolism system instead of the digestive system. When you are eating food the blood flow goes to the intestines to help digest your food and when you are sleep your body is digesting food all night. Cell growth and replacement takes place more efficiently when you are fasting. The immune system is strengthened during a fast.

Rejuvenation and energy

After a fast most people report that they have a feeling of vigor and energy. When you fast the digestive system does not have to do much work. That's why people wake up in the morning feeling like they have not slept. The digestive system has been churning and grinding all night long in an effort to digest your food. This can be a tough process because all of the energy in the body is being redirected to your digestive system in order for this process to complete. The body has time to rest and repair itself when digestion is not going on. During a fast your rate of metabolism slows down substantially, and the rate at which protein is produced Is more efficient and effective. It also stands to reason that when your immune system is stronger, as a result of fasting, it does not have to work as hard to keep our body health.

There are also cases where fasting has helped individuals with diabetes overcome the need for insulin. Fasting has the ability to help people overcome addictions such as cocaine, caffeine, drugs, alcohol and tobacco much faster than they would been able to do on their own. Of course any type of fasting such as this needs to be done under the care of your doctor. Always consult with your doctor before you decide to let fasting take the place of regular medical care.

Source: http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/exchange/node/1834

Source: http://www.healthpromoting.com/Articles/articles/benefit.htm