What is prolonged fasting?
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Prolonged fasting refers to a fasting period that extends beyond the typical short-term fast, usually lasting around four to five days for humans. This duration allows for more significant physiological effects compared to shorter fasts.
Key benefits highlighted by include:
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Cellular Cleanup and Autophagy: Prolonged fasting induces a heightened level of autophagy, the process by which the body clears out damaged cells, compared to shorter fasts 1.
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Organ System Renewal: It can lead to the shrinkage of whole organ systems, which are then renewed during the refeeding phase. This process involves the activation of stem cells and their proliferation and differentiation into new, healthy cells 1 2.
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Activation of Apoptosis: During prolonged fasting, there is a significant induction of apoptosis (programmed cell death), which helps in eliminating dysfunctional cells, creating a foundation for new cell growth during the refeeding period. This is particularly noted for its potential in improving autoimmune conditions and cancer treatments 2 3.
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Refeeding Phase Importance: The refeeding phase is crucial, as it involves the regeneration of the immune system and other tissues, facilitated by the intake of nutrients that promote cell proliferation and differentiation 4.
Prolonged fasting has shown potential in not only clearing out damaged or unnecessary cells but also in activating stem cells to regenerate new cells. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before attempting prolonged fasting, especially given its powerful effects and the need for proper refeeding and recovery periods 1 4.
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