Fasting is a practice where a person voluntarily abstains from eating food, and sometimes drinking, for a specific period. It can range from a few hours to several days and may be done for religious, health, or personal reasons.
Fasting matters for health because it can influence how the body uses energy and can impact metabolic processes. Some people fast to help manage weight, improve metabolic health, or for spiritual reasons. It is important to approach fasting with care, especially if done for health purposes, to ensure it is safe and beneficial.
In the body, fasting triggers a shift in energy sources. When food intake is stopped, the body begins to use stored glucose and eventually switches to burning fat for energy. This process can affect hormone levels, metabolism, and cellular repair mechanisms, playing a role in how the body maintains balance and health.
Learning more about fasting is important if you are considering it for health reasons or if you have medical conditions that could be affected by changes in diet. Consulting a healthcare professional can help ensure that fasting is done safely and effectively.