A few years ago now my trainer suggested I try fasting. I can’t recall the specific reasons why it came up or why we were discussing it, I think it was just because it is such a healthy habit and he believes its a good practice. When I work with people who’s expertise I trust to support my health, I tend to ask questions but listen to their advice. So I tried it, and now have been doing it consistently for the past 3 years.
Research and resources are plenty, but the simplest thing for you to understand with fasting is this:
When you limit the energy required for digestion within your body, it frees up energy to focus on healing and repair.
When you do this consistently the effects of this are cumulative! Fasting is known to be a healing intervention for a number of chronic and degenerative health challenges, but it also has tremendous benefits when you are healthy and well and want to stay that way for a long time. By consistently adding fasting into your life you will support your digestive system, improve the function of your immune system, help your body get back to its natural size and shape, and even slow down the aging process.
I added fasting to my life because of the health benefits, but here are the other benefits I observed:
Changed my Relationship with Food
I love to cook, I love great food, but like many people sometimes I ate not for nourishment but because it just tasted good, filled some craving, or it was a social situation.
Reconnected me With my Body
Once I started fasting it was easier to listen to how I felt and whether I really needed food or not. My awareness about my hunger changed, and the amount of food I need to feel satisfied did as well.
Clarity of Thought & Mental Focus
This is by far the biggest reason I continue to fast regularly. After my first 18-hour fast, the clarity of my mind was astounding. I felt as good as I have in the past doing 2 week cleanses but in so much less time!
Consistent Benefits
Allows me to eat whatever I want the rest of the days. My diet is still really clean but if you’ve seen any of my instagram posts you know I love pizzas, and a really great burger. And cupcakes.
Lost Weight
Not intentional but it happened, I move easier, feel more like myself.
Many people are overfed and undernourished, and many people eat more than they need. Talk to your Chiropractor, naturopath or health provider about it! For most people there is no challenge and the only benefits are good ones, but it’s always best to get some professional advice. Do some research, then try it and see if its right for you.