7 benefits of fasting

Fasting is an abstention from food and from the comforts of this world for a certain time, and it is an act of worship that is deeply loved by our Lord. During fasting, the body adapts by changing its metabolism, allowing it to maintain vital functions from its own reserves.

We will look at the seven benefits that fasting during the month of Ramadan and fasting in general have on our body:

The first is the "detox" effect. Indeed, in the first days the body will be more sensitive to hunger and fatigue; this reflects the fact that toxins are beginning to be eliminated. In addition, fatigue and headaches will appear, and sometimes dizziness, along with a drop in blood sugar: a physiological change sets in. However, it is important to remember that the detox process taking place throughout the day should not be broken in the evening by excess, but rather it is advisable to help the body by consuming juices, especially citrus juices, soups, and herbal teas made from fenugreek or oregano, for example.

The second benefit of fasting is that it promotes the renewal of stem cells. Indeed, starting from the fourth day, changes appear, such as the appearance of pimples or excess sebum on the skin, signaling a reaction from the liver. At this point, it is best to favor the consumption of juices, soups, a few proteins, as well as ginger, chamomile, and rosemary herbal teas.

The third benefit is none other than resistance to stress, which brings great relief to the body and mind.

The fourth benefit will appear around the seventh day; it concerns the microbiome. Indeed, the change in diet will allow the intestines and stomach to react, so it is at this point that vegetables should be favored as much as possible, alongside probiotics, particularly through dairy products.

The fifth positive point of fasting, which occurs between the eighth and fifteenth day, is no small matter, since it concerns the renewal of the immune system. Indeed, it is during this period that fasting is most beneficial, as it stimulates the bone marrow, which then produces large quantities of white blood cells so that the immune system can renew itself. Moreover, this will translate into all sorts of problems that were within us coming to the surface. Indeed, wounds and pains will resurface, so natural anti-inflammatories should be used; likewise, scars will appear, in which case honey should be applied; coughing will be a sign of underlying lung problems, so thyme and oregano herbal teas will then be recommended. Finally, milk thistle and artichoke should be used for any potential liver problems.

Then, after fifteen days, the body will be more at ease with fasting, and one can then focus more on the diet by abstaining from all bad things at mealtimes.

Finally, the last benefit of fasting is the psychological benefit. Indeed, at this point the body is accustomed to fasting, and attention turns more toward acts of worship such as tarawih and good deeds. The last ten days of the month of Ramadan are very important, for it is a time when the worshipper increases their efforts to draw closer to their Lord.