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Fasting Made Easy: No More Tummy Upsets

Fasting, a practice of abstaining from food for a set period, is not only for weight loss but also for its potential health benefits. One area where fasting can have a significant impact is on gut health. But how exactly does fasting affect your digestive system?

Gut Rest and Repair

Fasting gives your digestive system a break. This helps the gut heal and repair itself when the body will enter an autophagy state, especially after longer fasts (16-24 hours). In this state, your body cleans out damaged cells in the gut.

Changes in Gut Bacteria

Your gut is filled with good and bad bacteria. Studies suggest that fasting can help increase beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, while reducing harmful bacteria. This can enhance gut health and digestion.

Reduced Inflammation

Fasting may help lower inflammation in the gut, which is beneficial for individuals with digestive issues like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease). By giving the gut time to repair and reset, fasting helps alleviate discomfort such as bloating and cramping.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity

By regulating insulin levels, fasting reduces the risk of conditions like insulin resistance, which is associated with digestive problems like bloating and discomfort. Lower insulin levels help maintain a healthy gut environment.

Potential Risks of Fasting

While fasting offers many benefits, it's not without potential downsides. For some people, especially when fasting for extended periods, digestive discomfort such as constipation or bloating can occur. It's important to reintroduce food gradually after a fast to avoid overwhelming the digestive system.

Conclusion

Fasting can offer a range of benefits for gut health, including promoting gut repair, improving gut bacteria diversity, and reducing inflammation. However, it is important to approach fasting with caution, especially if you have underlying digestive issues. Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare provider if you're considering fasting as a routine practice.

Ph. Amanda

Pharmacist Cum P&M, Health Lane Family Pharmacy Taman Putra Ampang