Fasting is often misunderstood and many people believe that it slows down the metabolism and causes fatigue.
However, Dr. Jason Fung, a prominent proponent of intermittent fasting, says the reality is quite the opposite. In a recent discussion on the CEO’s Diary podcast, Dr. Fung explained how fasting really affects the body and challenged common misconceptions about food and energy.
Fasting increases energy, not fatigue.
Contrary to popular belief, fasting does not slow down your metabolism. Dr. Fung explains that when you abstain from food, your body begins to use stored energy for fuel. This process actually increases your metabolic rate rather than decreasing it. “Your insulin levels drop and other hormones like growth hormone and cortisol increase, leading to a natural increase in energy,” says Dr. Fung. This goes against the common assumption that fasting makes you feel sluggish.
Fasting and the fight or flight response
Fasting puts the body into a heightened state of alertness known as the fight-or-flight response. According to Dr. Fung, “Hungry animals are more dangerous because their bodies are in an activated state, ready to search for food.” This response is triggered by increased levels of cortisol and growth hormone, increasing the body’s ability to use stored energy more efficiently.
Health benefits beyond weight loss
Research from the University of Cambridge supports the idea that fasting offers a range of health benefits beyond just weight loss. For example, 24-hour fasting has been shown to reduce harmful inflammation in the body by increasing levels of a fatty acid called arachidonic acid. This could have long-term implications for reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. “Our research adds to growing evidence that calorie restriction has broad health benefits,” says Professor Clare Bryant from the University of Cambridge.
Fasting and brain health
The benefits of fasting also extend to brain health. By reducing inflammation and increasing arachidonic acid levels, fasting may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases. However, experts caution that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term impact of fasting on cognitive function. This new evidence suggests that fasting could be a simple and effective way to promote brain health as we age.
The breakfast debate: To eat or not to eat?
While Dr. While Fung supports fasting, not all experts agree with skipping meals, especially breakfast. Nutritional therapist Justin Nault warns that skipping breakfast can be a sign of metabolic problems. He believes that breakfast helps to start the metabolism and prevents unhealthy metabolic adaptations. The NHS also advises against skipping breakfast and emphasizes its importance for overall health.
Should you try fasting?
In conclusion, although fasting is often misunderstood, emerging research and expert opinion are challenging many prevalent myths. Opinions of Dr. Jason Fung on intermittent fasting highlight its potential to not only increase energy levels but also improve metabolism. Far from making you slow down, fasting activates key hormonal responses that can increase your physical and mental performance. As more studies examine its effects on weight loss, inflammation, and brain health, it appears that fasting offers a number of health benefits that go beyond just shedding pounds.
However, it is important to approach fasting with an understanding of your body’s needs and personal health. While Dr. While Fung advocates fasting as a beneficial practice, experts like nutritional therapist Justin Nault remind us that regular meals, especially breakfast, play a key role in maintaining a balanced metabolism. As with any health trend, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with an expert before making any significant changes to your diet.
Ultimately, whether you choose to incorporate fasting into your routine or not, a growing body of research suggests that calorie restriction, when done consciously, can promote longevity and protect against a variety of health problems. When approached correctly, fasting could be a simple but effective tool for improving overall health and well-being.