Ramadan 2023: Fasting is practice to detox body and mind; can help build stronger metabolism

• Fasting has been a part of human history for centuries and is practiced by many cultures and religions around the world
• Fasting involves abstaining from food or certain types of food for a specific period of time
• Types of fasts common in India: Intermittent fasting, Full fasting, Fasting on fruits, Fasting on liquids, Fasting from grains

Fasting has been a part of human history for centuries and is practiced by many cultures and religions around the world. It is often associated with spiritual growth, but there are also many health benefits to fasting. In recent years, the practice of fasting has gained popularity as a way to improve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Fasting involves abstaining from food or certain types of food for a specific period of time. This can range from a few hours to several days or even weeks. While some people fast for religious or cultural reasons, others fast for health benefits, such as detoxifying the body, improving gut health, and boosting mental clarity.

Fasting rejuvenates gut

One of the most immediate benefits of fasting is the cleansing of the digestive tract. The gut is responsible for breaking down and absorbing nutrients from the food we eat. When we fast, the gut is given a break from its constant work, allowing it to rest and repopulate with healthy bacteria. This can lead to a more diverse and healthy microbiome, which is essential for overall health and well-being.

Fasting enhances mental and spiritual wellbeing
Research has shown that fasting can also have a positive impact on mental and spiritual health. The gut and the brain are connected through the gut-brain axis, and what is good for the gut is often good for the brain. Fasting can help to calm the mind and increase focus, making it easier to meditate and turn inward. It can also improve mood and reduce stress levels, leading to a greater sense of well-being.

Types of fasts common in India:
There are many different types of fasting, each with its own benefits and risks.

• Intermittent fasting: This refers to time-restricted eating and fasting for periods of time that are longer than a normal overnight fast. Intermittent fasting has different approaches, for instance, the 16/8 fasting. This means eating for eating in an eight-hour window and then fasting for 16 hours. The 5:2 approach involves regularly eating five days a week and then limiting food consumption to one 500-600 calorie meal in a day, for the rest of the two days.
• Full fasting: In this, the person drinks water through the day. Due to the severity of the fast, it is recommended that it should not exceed 24-72 hours. A full fast can lower your risk of developing chronic diseases and promote autophagy.
• Fasting on fruits: Eating only fruits during a fast can cleanse your body internally and initiate healing and rejuvenation. According to Ayurveda, a 3–5-day fruit fast can enhance brain health and boost memory. A fruit fast is ideal for beginners.
• Fasting on liquids: This involves consuming, teas, coffee, milk, juices, soups etc and avoiding solid foods. This fast should not exceed 48 hours. Try this simple yet delicious fasting recipe Makhana Kheer from RoundGlass Living.
• Fasting from grains: This is perhaps one of the most commonly followed fasting practices in India. In this people avoid eating grains rice and wheat and instead consume fruit, non-grain flour such as buckwheat flour and water chestnut flour, rajgira (Amaranth), and sago.

In India, fasting is a common practice, and there are many different types of fasting observed for religious and cultural reasons. For example, during the month-long Ramzan, many people in India observe a daily fast, which is broken with foods such as dates, fruit, bread, and sherbets. In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, the nourishing and healing nombu kanji is consumed after a day of strict fasting, while in Gujarat, energy-dense foods made with potatoes, sago, singhara, and peanuts are consumed during the nine-day-long Navratri fast.

Despite its many benefits, fasting is not recommended for everyone. Pregnant and lactating mothers, children, elderly people, and those who are on medication should avoid it. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before embarking on a fasting regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, fasting can be an effective pathway to good health and well-being when practiced with intention and faith. It is not a form of self-denial but rather a practice to develop self-discipline and resilience. By incorporating fasting into our lives, we can detoxify our bodies, boost our immune systems, improve our mental clarity, and deepen our spiritual connection.