What are the benefits of long fasting?
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Long fasting, defined as routinely extending beyond 24 hours, carries several physiological benefits that have been discussed by experts like Dr. David Sinclair on the :
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Autophagy Activation: Extended fasting triggers autophagy, a cellular process that digests and removes old and damaged proteins. This enhances overall cellular health and longevity. 1
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Increased Longevity: Studies in animal models show that fasting for prolonged periods (like two or three days) can substantially increase lifespan, likely due to the intensified activation of autophagy and other cellular cleaning mechanisms. 1
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Mental Clarity: Many individuals report greater mental clarity and a heightened state of cognitive function during extended fasts. This effect might be due to numerous physiological changes, including adjustments in hormone levels and improvements in energy utilization. 2
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Possible Mental Health Benefits: There is emerging evidence suggesting that extended fasting might influence mental health positively, including potential benefits for conditions like treatment-resistant depression, although more research is needed to substantiate these claims. 3
It is important to note that while long fasting can have significant health benefits, it should be approached cautiously and preferably under medical supervision, especially when extended beyond a day.
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