9 health benefits of fasting in Ramazan

Ramazan is a time for enlightenment, of self-reform and abstaining from basic desires. A month of prayers and self-control that brings man closer to God, spiritually and emotionally . But as much as this holy month is about the mind, it is also about the body. Fasting is full of health benefits which cleanse the system.

Read: 8 nutritional benefits of eating dates at iftar

Here are nine significant health benefits that the body achieves during the holy month:

1. Detoxifies the body

All year round we eat processed foods that are toxic for the body. These toxins are stored in fat which burn while you are fasting, this burning process helps detoxify the liver, kidneys and other major organs of your body.

2. Digestive system gets a break:

Although the normal physiologic functions of the body keep working, the digestive system gets a much needed break. Fasting helps maintain the balance of fluids in the body and produces energy through food break down.

3. Resolves inflammatory response:

Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis, allergies and skin diseases such as psoriasis can be controlled and cured by fasting. Some experts assert that fasting may promote healing of inflammatory bowel diseases.



4. Increases fat breakdown:

Once the glucose is broken down and exhausted, the process of ketosis begins. Ketosis is when the body breaks down fat to release energy.

5. Regulates and reduces blood pressure:

Fasting is the most natural way to regulate blood pressure. The body gets energy throughout the day as glucose and fat stores are broken down; the metabolic rate reduces, fear-flight hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline are also reduced keeping the metabolic rate steady and within limits. Glucagon, a hormone that is produced to release glucose in the bloodstream, is produced to facilitate reduction in blood pressure.

Read: 6 ways to stop binge eating during iftar

6. Aids in weight loss:

Most of us aim to lose weight during this month and quite often we starve ourselves. Starving is not a wise strategy for weight loss. If fasting is implemented correctly it can lead to weight loss in a healthy way. Since the body is already using up fats breaking them down to produce energy, the idea is to cut down on sugar intake, avoid fatty foods, increase consumption of fruits and take rest to achieve the desired weight goal.



7. Helps achieve a healthy diet:

Fasting can kill cravings for processed food promoting the body’s need for organic and natural foods, especially water and fruits. This is one way fasting can help get rid of an unhealthy eating pattern and promote a healthy diet.

8. Boosts immune system:

When the body is on a balanced diet in-between fasts, it boosts the immune system. Fats are constantly broken down into energy and toxins are continuously released. Intake of fruits when breaking fast increase the body’s store of essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamins A and E are good antioxidants readily available in fruits which help boost immunity.

9. Helps abstain from addictions:

When you fast, you abstain from consuming nicotine, caffeine and other substances that may abuse your body. Which in turn helps overcome these addictions by putting your body in a healthy state.



Read: 7 yummilicious chutneys you can't miss this Ramazan