You can guarantee that thousands of people worldwide are in the midst of a fast at any moment. They might be doing it for religious reasons or possibly for fat loss.
Fasting is exceptionally beneficial for the body and mind, with studies showing that it can improve cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and even cancers. Plus, it’s a great way to shed some pounds. So if that sounds appealing, you might consider starting your fasting journey.
Is Fasting Right for You? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself
Before diving into a three-day water fast, you must understand whether it is right for you. After all, for fasting to be successful, you must do it correctly. If you want to know if fasting is right for you, read on – but before doing that, make sure to read online articles on the subject like this one: WATER FASTING: BENEFITS AND HOW TO DO IT THE RIGHT WAY.
1: What is Your Weight?
Fasting while overweight or obese is an effective way to burn fat and lower blood pressure. In addition, it provides an alternative to calorie counting – something many overweight individuals struggle with.
Even those at a healthy weight can enjoy fasting due to the benefits to the body and mind. In fact, it’s encouraged! What about those who are underweight, though?
If you are underweight (a BMI lower than 18.5), fasting may not suit you. That is because you might not get the nutrients you need to function, and fasting could worsen that.
2: Have You Fasted Before?
Before starting a fasting journey, it’s a good idea to consider how easy (or hard) it may be. So, ask yourself: have you fasted before? If yes, how did it go? Having previous experience can help you create a fasting plan that works better for you and your lifestyle.
3: What is Your Relationship Like with Food?
For healthy fasting, people must have a good relationship with food. That means being relaxed around food – understanding its value and not feeling restricted or scared.
Many people with eating disorders have a poor relationship with food and should not fast. This is because it could lead to unhealthy habits like fasting for the wrong reasons, leading to malnutrition. It could also trigger harmful thoughts in those who have previously suffered from an eating disorder.
4: Are You Pregnant or Nursing?
Fasting while pregnant or nursing a baby is a bad idea. Your body requires more nutrients during this stage – not less! – so, abstaining from food for even a short time is a bad idea. Wait until you are finished nursing before starting a fasting journey.
5: Does Your Doctor Think It’s a Good Idea?
Lastly, ask yourself: does your doctor think fasting is right for you? Your doctor knows what is best for you medically, so consult them before starting any fasting journey. Certain illnesses make fasting dangerous, so it is imperative to seek your doctor’s approval if you suffer from one.
If you have no conditions preventing fasting and want to fast for the right reasons, the chances are doctors will be more than happy for you to start a healthy fasting journey.
