Benefits of fasting from medical science perspective  

Since fasting became obligatory in the ninth year of Hijri, it has not only been observed as a religious provision, but modern medical research has proven its amazing physical and mental benefits. The triumph of 'intermittent fasting' or intermittent fasting in the current world is rooted in this eternal provision of Islam. Fasting is not only a means of self-purification, but also a scientific process of returning the body clock to rhythm. In the words of the famous poet Kaykobad: "I fast to purify my soul and body, and I saturate this shadow of my heart with the love of the Lord."

Fasting gives our digestive system a long break, which plays a helpful role in improving the digestive process. Our stomach and intestines work continuously for the remaining eleven months of the year, which can lead to stagnation in the digestive process. During fasting, the stomach regains its lost energy and the digestive glands are able to secrete enzymes with renewed vigor. This eliminates problems like constipation and indigestion and increases overall digestive capacity.

Fasting or detoxification is a unique way to remove toxic substances or toxins accumulated inside the body. When we do not eat, the body starts burning its stored fat and the toxins dissolved in this fat are excreted from the body through the bloodstream to the liver and kidneys. Medical scientists believe that fasting cleanses the blood and increases the brightness of the skin, which is more effective than modern 'detox diets'.

Fasting plays an immense role in increasing insulin sensitivity, which is helpful in preventing the metabolic syndrome of the present era. Due to not eating for a long time, the pressure of insulin secretion from the pancreas decreases and the cells become more sensitive to insulin. It greatly reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Many researchers consider controlled fasting as a therapy for diabetics.

Fasting is recognized as a natural and effective method for losing excess weight. During fasting, the body starts using stored fat instead of carbohydrates for energy, which is called the 'ketosis' process in medical terms. As a result, the body weight decreases naturally and the complications of obesity are eliminated. Fasting helps reduce fat by increasing the metabolic rate without any artificial drugs or strenuous exercise.

There is no alternative to fasting to strengthen the body's immune system. Scientific studies have shown that fasting for three days or more regenerates old white blood cells in the body and creates new stem cells. This increases the body's ability to fight pathogens and helps keep the body free from infection. In particular, a study by the University of California has found evidence of this 'immune rebooting' process.

Fasting plays a unique role in dissolving harmful fats or fats accumulated inside the body. Especially, the fat accumulated in the liver and arteries is reduced due to fasting, which is helpful in preventing fatty liver. Long-term fasting improves the body's lipid profile and reduces triglyceride levels. This helps to tone the body and maintain the performance of internal organs.

Many cardiologists have suggested that fasting works directly to reduce the risk of heart disease. Fasting reduces the level of a substance called homocysteine, which is one of the causes of heart disease. In addition, fasting reduces the body's oxidative stress and increases the function of the heart. Studies have shown that those who fast regularly have a much lower risk of heart attack and stroke than the general population.

It is recognized in medical science that fasting works like a medicine in controlling high blood pressure. Fasting calms the body's sympathetic nervous system and dilates blood vessels, which results in a decrease in blood pressure. In addition, excess salt is excreted from the body, which helps reduce high blood pressure. Doctors recommend fasting along with a controlled diet for high blood pressure patients.

Fasting is very effective in controlling diabetes or maintaining blood glucose levels. During fasting, glycogen stored in the liver is converted into glucose and provides energy, due to which there is no chance of a sudden increase in blood sugar levels. This gives rest to the pancreas and helps reduce the need for insulin in diabetic patients in the long term. However, it is important for patients taking insulin to consult a doctor.

Fasting works like magic to reduce harmful cholesterol or LDL in the blood. Studies have shown that fasting increases the level of beneficial cholesterol or HDL and reduces harmful LDL. As a result, the tendency to form blocks in the arteries decreases and blood circulation remains normal. Fasting is appreciated worldwide as a natural and affordable method to reduce blood fat.

Fasting plays an important role in reducing long-term inflammation or inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that fasting reduces the level of 'cytokines' that cause inflammation in the blood. As a result, it is possible to get rid of joint pain or physical inflammation without painkillers.

Fasting provides a unique opportunity for the formation of new cells and cellular repair of the body. When the body is freed from the busyness of digesting external food, it spends all its energy on repairing internal damage and building new tissue. This accelerates wound healing and serves as the main foundation of the body's immune system. As a result of this process, the fasting person feels physically and mentally refreshed.

Fasting gives amazing results in restoring physical strength and increasing vitality. Although some weakness may be felt temporarily, in the long run it increases the vitality or vitality of the body. When the body is free from unnecessary fat and toxins, it becomes much lighter and more functional. After fasting, most people feel a kind of inexhaustible physical strength and freshness that lasts for a long time.

Highlighting the greatness of this eternal provision of Islam, poet Golam Mustafa wrote: "In this holy month of fasting, peace is called, and the mind is purified along with the body." Understanding these scientific aspects of fasting and observing fasting according to the correct rules is essential for the physical and mental well-being of all of us.

So, fasting is not just a religious act, but it is a great blessing for the human body. The many benefits of fasting that modern medicine has discovered were introduced as a rule of Islam fourteen hundred years ago. The importance of fasting for a healthy body and a peaceful mind is immense.