Fasting Benefits

Research highlights several benefits, including:

• Slowing down cellular aging
• Enhancing blood sugar levels
• Reducing inflammation

You might still be wondering about the significance of these benefits; they may not seem groundbreaking at first glance. However, there are additional perks worth noting:

• It can enhance cognitive function and potentially prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia.
• Fasting triggers autophagy, a process that helps the body eliminate damaged cells and regenerate healthier ones.
• It may even contribute to a longer lifespan.

Clearly, both intermittent and extended fasting (lasting from 24 to 72 hours) offer impressive health benefits.

My Fasting Experience

I’ve explored fasting on various occasions. Initially, I tried intermittent fasting for about a month, but my love for food made it challenging.

I attempted a 24-hour fast, but only managed to last 22 hours. After some practice, I finally succeeded in completing a full 24-hour fast. Buoyed by that success, I decided to push myself to 30 hours.

After reaching 30 hours, I thought I could tackle 36, then 40, and ultimately, I set my sights on a 48-hour fast.

For those not keen on math, that's two entire days without food—only water, black coffee, or tea.

In preparation, I maintained a clean diet the week prior, avoiding sugary snacks, pasta, rice, and all the delicious yet unhealthy foods I love.

The first 24 hours of fasting went surprisingly well, with only minor complaints about hunger. The following 12 hours, however, proved more challenging. I found myself bargaining with my cravings, telling myself it would be okay to just have a little something.

The final 10 hours were the toughest. I did manage to sleep, but the discomfort lingered. I reached 46 hours before deciding I couldn’t continue any longer.

You might wonder, “Why not just push through to 48 hours?” Simply put, I was at my limit.

So, what were the results after fasting for 46 hours?

My astonishing outcomes, and I truly mean astonishing, were as follows:

• The inflammation in my elbows had significantly decreased.
• The pain in my fingers vanished.
• My skin looked radiant.
• I lost about 4 lbs, largely from my stubborn cupcake top.
• Most importantly, I experienced heightened clarity, energy, and focus throughout my workday.

And of course, I was thrilled to eat again.

While I felt a sense of accomplishment, I can’t say I’d want to endure such a long fast again. It felt like pure torture, and I’d prefer not to repeat that experience.

Continuing My Fasting Journey

Despite the challenges, I’m no quitter (well, except for smoking). I now fast weekly, undertaking a 24-hour fast every Sunday. This routine allows me to reap the benefits of fasting while also managing my health, cognitive function, and aging.

I’ve noticed a substantial 75% reduction in elbow pain, and my skin continues to look decent (though it can flare up if I indulge in unhealthy foods). My cupcake top remains under control, and I maintain a high level of focus without the complaints I used to have during fasting.

Although fasting might seem excessive to some, I encourage you to try it. You might be surprised by the results.

Have you ever fasted? What has your experience been like?

ox iva xo

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