What does fasting mean for our body?

Originally, people abstained from solid food for a period of time for religious reasons in order to cleanse their body and mind. However, many people now also fast for health reasons. But what does fasting actually mean for our bodies? We explain and give tips on how it works best.

via Sabrina

02/26/2019, 17:58

Frau kocht gesundes Essen — Typical for fasting: we prepare everything ourselves, whether soup, broth or vegetable cocktail. We give sweets, white flour products and luxury foods a wide berth.

Frau bei der Massage — How about a soothing massage? It's relaxing and also helps to detoxify the body.

Frau trinkt Tee — Drink enough fluids throughout the day, e.g. unsweetened herbal tea and broth.

Grüner Smoothie mit Kräutern — To make the smoothie richer in vital substances: Add herbs and a few nuts.

What does fasting mean for the body?

The special thing about fasting is the reduced calorie intake. It is limited to around 500 to 600 calories a day. And certain foods, such as sugar and white flour, are omitted; instead, you make do with vegetable soups, broths or cocktails. Herbal teas are also very popular during fasting. What does fasting mean for our body? The aim is to rid it of harmful substances, such as environmental toxins.

If you're doing it for the first time and haven't practiced, you should take note of the following fasting tip: Limit yourself to a maximum of seven days so as not to overexert yourself.

What else is involved in fasting?

Exercise for around 30 to 40 minutes a day and wellness treatments, such as a massage. This promotes blood circulation and boosts the metabolism. Healing clay (e.g. from the pharmacy) has also proven effective. It binds toxins and supports internal cleansing.

What does fasting mean for the soul?

Initially, you may experience a slight headache, but later, after about two days, it usually has a mood-enhancing effect. More happiness hormones now flow through the body. And we have the feeling that we are doing something good for ourselves. Another plus: it can also boost our self-healing powers and slow down the ageing process.

Lose weight quickly and healthily with fasting

If you want to lose weight quickly and healthily, you should follow the right fasting tips. Because with fasting you can also lose weight sustainably. As already mentioned, the calorie intake is reduced to around 500 a day.

By comparison, we Germans consume an average of 3,500 calories, which is far more than recommended. This is because women are advised to eat an average of 1,800 calories and men 2,300 calories. This also depends on height, weight and physical activity. The increased calorie intake makes you fat and also increases the risk of diabetes.

And what does fasting mean for diabetics?

But now comes good news from the UK! In a study with type 2 diabetics who do not yet inject insulin, experts there found that a reduced calorie intake of 825 to 853 calories over three to five months can reverse diabetes! This improves quality of life, which in turn has a positive effect on everyday life.
has a positive effect on everyday life.

Be careful with blood thinners!

When should I avoid fasting? Directly after an infection, for example. Or if you are taking medication such as blood thinners. And if you have high blood pressure or a chronic illness such as diabetes, you should consult your doctor beforehand.