Samantha Prabhu has been diving deep into gut health and biohacking lately. Recently, she spoke with Dr. Mitrabasu Chhillar, a holistic wellness expert. They chatted about the noticeable benefits of fasting.
Dr. Chhillar mentioned that fasting can give our digestive systems a much-needed break. “It allows you to be more mindful about your food choices,” he said. This awareness might change how we react to cravings, tapping into both psychological and hormonal changes.
Nutritionist Edwina Raj from Aster CMI Hospital supports this view, noting that fasting does more than help with weight loss. It can lower blood pressure and improve hunger-regulating hormones like ghrelin and leptin. “Fasting enhances our ability to feel full while eating less,” she stated. Interestingly, it also boosts insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to handle carbohydrates.
Raj suggests trying fasting once a week or month. This practice can rejuvenate cells and support immune function. It may also increase longevity by promoting a process called autophagy, which helps the body recycle cells and remove damaged components.
However, there can be downsides. While fasting can improve our mental clarity, some people experience headaches or discomfort from changes in their eating habits. Sudden shifts might lead to overeating when the fast ends, causing bloating.
Dehydration is another factor during fasting. It’s crucial to drink enough water to avoid headaches linked to lack of hydration. Edwina mentioned that abrupt changes in diet could also contribute to issues like gas.
To mitigate these risks, consider these tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Choose easily digestible foods during eating windows.
- Implement gradual changes to your fasting routine.
- Carefully monitor food choices to lessen the chances of gas-related discomfort.
Fasting isn’t ideal for everyone, especially individuals with diabetes. CV Aishwarya, a clinical nutritionist, warns that prolonged fasting can be dangerous for diabetics. Skipping meals can lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels. Aishwarya explained that type 1 diabetics or those using insulin can face risks like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a severe and sometimes fatal condition.
Consistent and balanced meals are crucial for keeping blood sugar stable. Overall, if fasting is something you’re considering, make sure to educate yourself and consult a healthcare professional, particularly if you have underlying health conditions.
For more information on fasting and its effects, you can visit Harvard Health Publishing.
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Samantha Prabhu, fasting, intermittent fasting, gut health, biohacking, weight loss, diabetes, health risks, nutrition, wellness, digestion, hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, autophagy
