The Process and Benefits Of Fasting
Thursday, June 19th, 2008 Subscribe To Our Feed
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Although the results of fasting will vary depending upon the individual condition of
the faster, there are a number of metabolic changes and experiences that are common
to all. First, fasting is a catalyst for change and an essential part of transformational
medicine. It promotes relaxation and energization of the body, mind, and emotions,
and supports a greater spiritual awareness.
Many fasters let go of past experiences and develop a positive attitude toward the present. Having plenty of energy to get things done and cleaning up our personal and community environment are also common responses to the cleansing process. Fasting definitely improves motivation and stimulates creative energy; it also enhances health, beauty, and vitality by letting many of the body systems rest.
Fasting is a multidimensional experience, affecting people physically, mentally,
emotionally, and spiritually. Breaking down stored or circulating chemicals is its basic
process; the blood and lymph also have the opportunity to be cleaned of toxins as
their eliminative functions are alleviated. Each cell has the opportunity to catch up
on its work; with fewer new demands, cells can repair themselves and eliminate
wastes. Most fasters experience a new vibrancy of their skin and clarity of mind and
body. Most important, our liver can spend more time detoxifying our body and
creating new essential substances.
Two to three quarts of water and juices daily (or
even more in some people) are optimal during fasting to cleanse and support the body.
Metabolically, fasting initially reduces caloric intake to the point where the liver
converts stored glycogen to glucose and energy. Body fat and fatty acids can be used
for energy (ATP); however, the brain and central nervous system need direct glucose.
With fasting, some protein breakdown occurs (less if calories are provided by juices).
When glycogen stores are low, the body can convert protein to amino acids and to
energy-specifically the amino acids alanine and serine can be used to produce glucose.
Fatty acids can also be a source of energy during fasting, as they convert to ketones
(acetone bodies), which can be used by the body to prevent protein loss. With juice
fasting, there is less ketosis (disrupted carbohydrate metabolism), and the simple
carbohydrates provided by the juices are easily used for energy and cellular function.
High-protein (fasting) diets and other weight-loss programs may burn more fat
and generate more ketosis, but they also add more toxins and may create other health
concerns.
Fasting increases the process of elimination and the release of toxins from the
colon, kidneys, bladder, lungs, sinuses, and skin. This process can generate discharges
such as mucus, which helps clear biochemical suffocation. Fasting helps us decrease
this suffocation by allowing the cells to eliminate waste products, increase oxygena-
tion, and improve cellular nutrition.