Podcast: How Fasting Can HEAL You — And Mistakes to Avoid

May 23, 2023 by Joel Fuhrman, MD

Health Concerns: Weight Loss

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of the Eat to Live podcast!

In today's discussion, we delve into the age-old practice of fasting and uncover the truth behind its impact on our well-being. Is fasting a beneficial practice or merely another passing trend?

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In today's discussion, we delve into the age-old practice of fasting and uncover the truth behind its impact on our well-being. Is fasting a beneficial practice or merely another passing trend? Let's explore the science and separate fact from fiction.

  1. Understanding Fasting: Fasting is not a new concept; it has been practiced for centuries by different cultures and religions. But what exactly is fasting? In simple terms, it refers to willingly abstaining from consuming food and, in some cases, even beverages for a defined period. It could be a few hours, a day, or even a week, depending on the chosen fasting method.

  2. The Physiology of Fasting: Fasting triggers a cascade of physiological changes in the body. During a fasting state, the body exhausts its glycogen stores and shifts to burning stored fat for energy. This process, known as ketosis, leads to increased production of ketone bodies. Many proponents of fasting claim that this metabolic switch provides a range of health benefits.

  3. Potential Health Benefits: In this episdoe we will dive into the health benefits of fasting, and highlight where you should be cautious during the practice.

  4. Fasting Strategies to Consider: a) Intermittent Fasting: This popular approach involves cycling between periods of fasting and eating. Common methods include the 16/8 method (16 hours of fasting and an 8-hour eating window) or alternate-day fasting. b) Time-Restricted Eating: Similar to intermittent fasting, this approach involves limiting your eating window to a specific time frame each day, usually between 8 to 12 hours. 

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy this episode as I am sharing my knowledge 35 years experience from both the clinical and reserach side of fasting. It's important to approach fasting with an understanding of one's unique circumstances and consult a healthcare professional when needed. 

Action Item: Finish dinner early! Comment below to let me know how you enjoy time restricted eating and the postitive changes you are making!

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Thank you for joining us on this eye-opening episode of Eat to Live. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking discussions and expert insights. Until next time, happy and healthy living!

 
References

Reference list for this episode

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Joel Fuhrman, M.D. is a board-certified family physician, seven-time New York Times bestselling author and internationally recognized expert on nutrition and natural healing, who specializes in preventing and reversing disease through nutritional methods. Dr. Fuhrman coined the term “Nutritarian” to describe his longevity-promoting, nutrient dense, plant-rich eating style.
 
For over 30 years, Dr. Fuhrman has shown that it is possible to achieve sustainable weight loss and reverse heart disease, diabetes and many other illnesses using smart nutrition. In his medical practice, and through his books and PBS television specials, he continues to bring this life-saving message to hundreds of thousands of people around the world.

 

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