How To Do Fasting Safely? The Truth About Fasting
Men and women have been fasting for thousands of years for spiritual and health reasons, and now many adults regard it as a weight-loss tool as well. You’ve probably seen the headlines about celebrities drink exotic fruit juices to prepare film roles, and heard friends talking about your weekly fasting days.
At the same time, fasting is still controversial among medical experts. If you are trying to decide whether to give up food for weight loss or other purposes, consider these tips to stay safe when you fast.
Deciding to Fast
1. Lose weight. Any very low-calorie diet will cause you to lose weight quickly but is very likely to win back. That’s because you lose water and muscle mass, and your metabolism slows down. When you resume eating, you may gain weight while consuming the same amount of food you use to be able to manage.
2. Detoxify your body. Some diet books claim that fasts purify your system and eliminate environmental contaminants. Most doctors believe that your liver and other organs do that job automatically.
3. Feel empowered. The stigma associated with being overweight may create a difficult relationship with food. It is possible to appreciate the experience that comes with control brief fasting.
4. Practice your religion. Many faiths include rituals based on fasting. Practitioners say it heightens their awareness and brings them closer to the divine.
5. Prepare for medical treatment. Listen to your doctor when they give you directions not to eat before certain medical tests or surgery. Proper treatment may require the establishment of a specific base or to give your body a break from digesting food.
6. Live longer. A lot of research links between consuming fewer calories and extend your life. The tradeoffs may be worth it for you.
Techniques for Fasting Safely
1. Drink liquids. Dehydration is a major concern during any extreme diet. If you feel dizzy or confused, drink more water, and see your doctor if the symptoms continue.
2. Clarify your terms. There are many different kinds of fasts. Most healthy individuals can handle consuming nothing but water for up to 2 days. Fasts that allow liquid calories or eating at certain hours may be feasible for longer periods.
3. Alternate days. Alternate day fasting is a hot trend since a British TV doctor wrote a book about his experience. You may want to experiment with his formula for five days on and two days off.
4. Study nutrition. If you’re trying to take off weight, keep in mind that fasting is a temporary and intense approach. In the long term, it’s important to understand how to eat healthy to stay in shape. Pick up a book on nutrition and try out new recipes for vegetables.
5. Watch for side effects. In addition to dehydration, there can be other consequences of fasting. Look out for bad breath, trouble sleeping, and changes in mood. You may find it helpful to decrease your level of physical activity and postpone tasks that require heavy thinking.
6. Know your risks. Some adults need to avoid fasting altogether, including pregnant women and those who suffer from diabetes.
The bottom line is that there are many diets more effective than fasting if you’re trying to lose weight. On the other hand, you may have other good reasons to stop eating temporarily. In that case, fasting may be good for your body and soul, as long as you talk with your doctor and take precautions that will keep you safe while you cut out calories.
