People are always trying crazy new diets or foods as a way of losing weight, but a YouTube video has suggested that if anyone wants to achieve a 'full reset', then fasting may well be the way forward.
I'm no doctor but not eating for extended periods seems like a pretty foolproof way of shedding some timber, as long as it is done safely.
A recent YouTube short shared by Wellness Wise shows an interesting simulation, which highlights what can happen to the human body if you go a day and a half without congesting food.
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It suggests that after the 36 hours are up, our body has likely cleared dead cells, regenerated tissues, and boosted metabolism, providing a full body reset.
While it might seem impossible to believe, the science certainly seems to back it up, and while I called my mate who ingests nothing but a diet coke and a coffee before his evening meal completely crazy, he's also the best-looking bloke I know, so the fasting clearly works for some of us.
One thing's for sure, not eating for 36 hours is certainly better than any carnivore diet that any fitness influencer might convince you is a good idea, but what exactly are all the health benefits of fasting for this long?
Accelerated fat burning
The big motive for some of us, fasting may well be a better alternative compared to some of the increasingly popular weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro.
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After depleting glycogen stores (typically within 12–18 hours of fasting), the body shifts to burning fat for energy, entering a state called ketosis.
By 24–36 hours, ketone levels rise, promoting fat loss and providing an efficient energy source for the brain.
Enhanced cognitive function
I'd argue that having strong brain function is far more important than worrying how your body looks, but it seems as if fasting can help us both.
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According to the National Library of Medicine, the increase in ketone production during extended fasting provides an alternative energy source for the brain, which may enhance mental clarity and focus.
Additionally, fasting may stimulate the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), supporting brain health.
Cardiovascular health benefits
Keeping the heart healthy is often the secret to a long life and it seems as if fasting can have plenty of cardiovascular benefits as well, as it can lead to reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, contributing to improved heart health.
Repairs damaged cells
Extended fasting can lead to autophagy, which is the cellular 'cleanup' process where the body removes damaged cells and regenerates new ones.
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This process becomes more active during prolonged fasting periods, with significant activation occurring around the 24-hour mark and peaking by 36 hours.
So if you're able to go that long without going to the biscuit tin, you might just reap the benefits.
Increased growth hormone secretion
According to experts, extended fasting can lead to a significant increase in human growth hormone (HGH) levels - up to 300 percent if you fast for three days - which supports fat metabolism, muscle preservation, and overall metabolic health.
Improved insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation
Finally, it seems as if fasting is a great way of preventing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
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Fasting for 36 hours can enhance insulin sensitivity by up to 25–40 percent, aiding in better blood sugar control. Of course, you'll need to do it regularly, and safely, to ensure you're getting all of these benefits.
However, there are of course, some risks involved, with side effects including dizziness, fatigue, and irritability, or being hangry if you want the more colloquial term.
It also isn't advisable to be fasting if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, under 18 or have certain medical conditions which wouldn't pair well with fasting for that long.
So, if you're going to do it, there are plenty of health benefits, but make sure you do it safely.
James Moorhouse