Once or twice a year, millions of people in Germany go without solid food. They fast. Partly for health reasons, partly for religious reasons. Today, fasting is more of a cure. For example, the Buchinger fasting plan: abstaining from solid food for a maximum of three to four weeks, only consuming tea, juices, vegetable broth and water. Full fasting is more extreme: not a single calorie is consumed, only water and tea are allowed. Abstaining from food is intended to rid the body of toxins and strengthen the immune system. Fasting must be done according to instructions, otherwise you risk your health.

The complexion also improves

The body changes its metabolism during fasting. Blood values improve, cholesterol and sugar are reduced. Scientists have discovered that around five percent of damaged body cells are flushed away during fasting to make room for new, healthy cells. The fat reserves also get a boost: the toxins stored in the fatty tissue are released from the cells and excreted via the detoxification organs. The intestines can recover and the complexion improves. As the connective tissue is drained, cellulite in particular is tackled. Skin diseases such as neurodermatitis or eczema are alleviated by fasting according to the instructions. As the body breaks down protein, the number of proteins that trigger inflammation in the body is also reduced.

Allergies, which are often the cause of an overreacting immune system, are alleviated during fasting. But unfortunately only for as long as you are fasting - a complete cure is not possible.

Fasting according to instructions: suitable for weight loss?

Of course, the body loses weight when starving according to a fixed fasting plan. Weight loss is automatic, but it is only a pleasant side effect. The focus is on cleansing the body. Anyone who resumes their normal eating habits after the end of the starvation diet will quickly put the lost pounds back on. However, therapeutic fasting often has a positive effect on your figure - if you take it as an opportunity to throw your old - unhealthy - eating habits overboard and eat more consciously in future.

Fasting according to instructions: ask your doctor first!

Do not start fasting on your own. Seek advice from your family doctor beforehand, because only a healthy person should fast at home. Further fasting tips: Empty your fridge before the cure. Otherwise, especially on the first few days of fasting, your inner pig could get the better of you and you could end up eating what's left in the fridge - the fasting effect would be gone!