72 hour

The concept of a 72-hour fast is described in the context of complete fasting or periodic fasting. Such longer-term fasting can induce various health benefits, potentially impacting weight loss and mental health, and it has been practiced in various traditions for centuries as a way to cleanse the body. Periods of complete fasting are done under strict supervision in fasting clinics in Germany and there is evidence suggesting health benefits from this practice 1.

Additionally, fasting, including longer fasts like 48 or 72-hour fasts, can kick in specific benefits related to the body's natural mechanisms for clearing out damaged cells and proteins, a process known as autophagy. Research indicates that more extended fasting periods can trigger a deep cleansing process in the body known as Chaperone mediated autophagy, which, based on studies in mice, can have significant longevity benefits 2.

For the benefits of intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating, including how fasting during sleep can aid in the body’s autophagy processes, particularly in the brain, Andrew Huberman has shared information across various episodes of the Huberman Lab. These topics are also touched upon in the context of hormonal health and the mental clarity that some people feel during fasting 3 4.

Moreover, fasting can enhance the rewarding properties of deprivation, due to upregulation of receptors for dopamine, causing some to enjoy the period of fasting itself 5. It's essential to practice fasting safely, which is typically conducted under medical supervision if extended beyond shorter intermittent fasts.