Five fasting do's and don'ts
Many people fast at the start of the new year for different reasons. A dietitian offers advice about fasting.
Many people fast at the start of the new year as a method of detoxing and to shed the extra kilos gained during the festive season.
Fasting is one of the popular dieting methods. An article by Healthline titled, 8 Health Benefits of Fasting, Backed by Science, states the following advantages:
- Promotes blood sugar control by reducing insulin resistance.
- Helps fight inflammation
- Enhance heart health by improving blood pressure, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels.
- Boost brain function
- Aids weight loss by limiting calorie intake and boosting metabolism.
- Increase growth hormone secretion, which is vital for growth, metabolism, weight loss, and muscle strength.
- Aid in cancer prevention.
Do's
- Talk to a dietitian before starting a fast to know which method is best for you.
- Stay hydrated. Going without water for prolonged periods can kill you. When your body loses too much water, it affects the vital organs, cells, and tissues, which will fail to function as they should. This can result in serious health problems that can even threaten your life.
READ: Three surprising health benefits of intermittent fasting
Dont's
- Don't go many days without eating. Dietitian Dr Sylven Masoga says that the body can survive for several days without eating, but there comes a time when the body's food stores are depleted. "Although you can take from stores, after a longer time, especially from five days onwards, your body starts to suffer," says the dietitian. He adds that for your body to function to its optimum best, you need to eat regular small meals.
"People should not wait until they are hungry for them to eat. For the body to function properly, they should keep the basal metabolism running by intake of meals."
- Avoid intense exercise. Fasting might weaken your body, and exercising while you haven't given your body the energy from food might be dangerous for your health.
- If you went a day or more without food, don't break the fast with a huge meal. Breaking with a feast might confuse your body and cause problems for your digestive system.
Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.
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