Fasting
is the willing abstinence or reduction from some or all food, drink or both,
for a period of time. An absolute fast or dry fasting is normally defined as
abstinence from all food and liquid for a particular period of time.
We should all be encouraged to fast often
asides religious fast because of its numerous benefits to our health.
Here are some nutritional benefits of fasting:
Weight
Loss. Fasting can help one lose weight and belly
fat, without having to consciously restrict calories.
Insulin Resistance.
Fasting can reduce insulin resistance, lowering blood sugar by 3-6% and fasting
insulin levels by 20-31%. This can protect against type 2 diabetes.
Inflammation.
Some studies show reductions in markers of inflammation, a key driver of many
chronic diseases.
Heart
Health. Fasting may reduce LDL cholesterol, blood triglycerides,
inflammatory markers, blood sugar and insulin resistance. These are all risk
factors of heart disease.
Brain
Health. Fasting increases a brain hormone called
BDNF, and may aid the growth of new nerve cells . It may also protect against Alzheimer’s
disease.
Foods To Eat After Fasting:
Drinking lots of water is very important after
a period of fast so as to hydrate your body properly.
Raw fruits with high water content and are easily digested and assimilated. Some of these include watermelon, grapes, oranges, apples these fruits can easily be digested, and they also provide nutrients and energy.
Raw
vegetables are great sources of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and
antioxidants. Examples are carrots, cucumbers,
tomatoes, cabbage, green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, eggplant,
spinach, parsley, onions, green and red bell peppers, mushrooms, okra,
tomatoes, garlic and green leafy vegetables. (https://poshsushi.com/) Having a salad containing these
after a fast will nourish your body while being easy on the stomach.
Author
– Ask Damz
