Fasting is the process of limiting the body's food intake, whether by eliminating solid foods or by limiting or abolishing any caloric intake from one's daily routine. People around the world seek the benefits of fasting, whether physical or spiritual. Proponents of fasting recommend it for detoxifying the body as well as nourishing the emotional and spiritual life. When attempting a fasting diet, always check with your physician first to ensure that you are healthy enough for a fast. If you develop uncomfortable or painful symptoms during your fast, contact your physician immediately.
Increased Energy
In a 1977 article in "Christian Century," entrepreneur Paul Martin described a 14-day fast he performed under the supervision of Dr. James McEachen. Among the benefits Martin mentioned experiencing was an increase in energy, back to the levels he remembered having as a young adult. He also reported experiencing better sleep, including being able to fall asleep quickly, sleep soundly through the night, and awaken feeling refreshed and alert.
Detoxification
Fasting can also help the body cleanse itself of stored toxins, according to Dr. Elson M. Haas, M.D. Because no solid food is being consumed during a fast, the digestive organs do not have to work as hard. The liver, which is the body's single largest organ responsible for removing toxins both from the things you consume and from the body's tissues, receives the respite it needs to focus on cleaning stored toxins out of the body. It also stimulates the body to clear out these toxins, either by passing them through the kidneys or by creating excess mucus.
Overcoming Addiction
Dr. Alan Goldhamer, a chiropractor and director of TrueNorth Health, recommends fasting to ease the difficulty of making large lifestyle changes, including overcoming addiction to alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes. Patients who fasted under the supervision of Dr. Goldhamer often reported that it was easier to give up addictive substances while fasting than it had been without fasting.
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