Intermittent Fasting can be a scary & daunting thought - to deprive one's body of food cannot be healthy, can it?
I have been practicing intermittent fasting for about 6 months but not religiously. Speaking of religion the Bible speaks of fasting in several books including I Kings 21:9, Esther 4:3, Esther 9:29, Psalm 109:24 and Matthew 6:16 which states that "When you fast, declining your food for a spiritual purpose..." - this verse speaks about celebrating the practice of fasting in your private moments with yourself and God the Father. However, fasting is not only good for the spiritual soul but for the physical body.
There are several types of intermittent fasting from hours to days. Personally, I have not made it days but have managed up to 18 hours. My next goal will be a full 24 hour day. It is a mind over matter and will require commitment, spiritual guidance, and meditation to take one's mind off of food. Any fasting requires the drinking of mineral-rich water but there is also Raw Food Fasting whereas you rely on raw fruits and vegetables to fill the digestion system.
What are the benefits of Intermittent Fasting?
- Body will naturally detoxify itself - You WILL experience low energy BUT that is your body utilizing the energy stores within your body to start the healing process. Healing takes energy thus the temporary deficiency in energy. - Creates a stronger Immune System - Allows the Digestive System a long period to rest - Blood insulin levels drop which will facilitate weight loss due to higher levels of Human Growth Hormone being activated - Cellular repair and removal of waste materials within the cells - Beneficial changes in Gene expression that relate to longevity and protection against disease - Increases metabolic rate by 3-14% - Reduce Insulin Resistance which in turn lowers risk of Type II Diabetes - Reduces Oxidative Stress and Damage plus inflammation which left in the body will lead to development of numerous diseases - Improves Blood Pressure, Total and LDL cholesterol, and Blood Triglycerides connected to heart disease - Increases levels of brain hormone and protects against brain damage due to stroke - Delays onset of Alzheimer's
How can you get started?
*First off, I recommend that you have already started a healthy eating program and have successfully been able to adjust it to your lifestyle. It can be Whole30, Clean Eating, Paleo or Ketogenic. *Second, make sure you have a clean mineral-rich water source to drink from. *Third, start with small goals. If you normally go 10 hours between meals move it slowly out 1-hour increments at a time. *Fourth, explore longer periods of time to allow for greater intra-cellular healing *Fifth, allow for patience and love of yourself.
If you are a Type I or Type II Diabetic it is not wise to do Intermittent Fasting without first checking with your doctor as it will adjust your sugar levels and may not be the best option for you. If Type II, this will over time lower your A1C possibly allowing you to come off of medication but must be done under doctor supervision.
To work with me or need more information on digestive health reply below or send a PM. Thank you and HAPPY FASTING!!