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For centuries, water fasting has been part of human culture. Almost every culture and religion practice waster fasting.
In recent years where we have access to technology for research, a lot of people have begun to investigate the real effect of water fasting on our health. Interestingly, modern science has discovered a lot of things about the impact of water fasting on human health.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about water fasting. Keep on reading to find out more.
Women all over the world do all sorts of things to lose weight and stay healthy. Unfortunately, some methods may seem extreme, while others may be a complete waste of time.
Thus, it is essential to learn how effective and healthy any weight-loss method is before you adopt it. This article will uncover the benefits of water fasting and its effect on human health. You will find this article valuable even if you know about water fasting before.
What is Water Fasting?
Simply put, it is the type of fasting where you stay away from every other kind of food and consume only water for a set period. Water fasts have been around for centuries. In fact, this is the only type of fast that has been practiced in every culture and religion in the world, albeit in several different ways and for varying lengths of time.
Water fasting can last from 24 hours to up to 5 days or more. This will depend on your ability and your health condition. Ideally, there is no set time that water fasting should last for. However, medically professionals recommend 24 hours to 3 days.
What Water Fasts Accomplish?
According to a study, 5 days of water fasting can help you lose up to 14 pounds of weight. The study also discovered that lower blood pressure would drop an average of 20 points following 5 days of water fasting.
When done well, water fasting can as well lead to a reduction in oxidative stress and improve digestive health.
Research done on mice suggests that water fasting can protect humans against a specific type of diabetes. It also showed that it could delay the aging process. Results from previous research done on the topic showed that water fasting could lead to lower rates of diabetes, a reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, and a lower BMI.
New studies are researching the possible positive impact of fasting on blood pressure and rheumatoid arthritis. The study recommends water fasting because it discovered its ability to induce “autophagy” – a process by which the body reprograms itself, clear out old damaged cells and grow new ones. It is rebooting your computer.
Also Read: 5 Best Ways to Detox to Lose Weight
What Are The Benefits of Water Fasting?
Water fasting has so many known benefits backed up by studies. Some of these short-term benefits include:
- It promotes autophagy
- Helps to lower blood pressure
- Lowers stress level
- Significantly decreases the risk of heart attack
- Boost the immune system
- Improve the body repair process
- Slows down cognitive decline and aging
- Reduce cancer cell proliferation
- Increases weight loss process
- Increases insulin sensitivity
- Help to lower the risk of several chronic diseases
Is Water Fasting Safe For Your Health?
Water fasting is generally safe. However, precautions must be taken to avoid certain risks that come with water fasting. Research has shown that prolonged fasting can have adverse effects on the kidney.
In this case, it will decrease a naturally-occurring enzyme known as CoQ10, which provides energy to our cells. When this happens, you can suffer from muscle weakness and even cardiac dysfunction. You may also suffer from orthostatic hypotension.
If you plan on fasting for more than 24 hours, make sure you consult with your doctor. Also, don’t fast when you have a pre-existing health condition. In this case, you may need to talk to your doctor before you start water fasting.
Also read: Whole30 for Women
Who Should Not Waster Fast?
Water fasting is not recommended for everyone. You must be 18 years or older before embarking on this type of fasting.
Anyone under the age of 18 must fast with adult supervision. Similarly, you should not fast when you have any of the following conditions:
- Underweight
- Eating disorder
- Undergoing a blood transfusion
- Have uncontrolled migraines
- Heart problems
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
-Shameka Renee
Results may vary. Information and statements made are for general purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Her Own Health does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Her Own Health are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
