There is a well studied aspect of fasting related to its impact on longevity. Many animal studies, and some human ones too, have indicated that calorie control through fasting can increase life spans.This reminds me of my grandmother who seemed to be perpetually fasting. Her indulgent and feudal lifestyle had changed dramatically in her early thirties — due to a spiritual experience — to that of a rigorous practitioner of fasts. I would like to record that in spite of being deficient in some nutrients on several occasions — when she had to be force fed — she did live to a fairly ripe age.An interesting study related to fasting was presented at a meeting of the American Heart Association recently. This study suggested that a short break from food may mean better health, as acknowledged in terms of lower rates of heart disease. The community that was studied observed a daylong fast, every month. The researchers, however, admit that other factors may also be contributing to the lower rates of heart disease noticed in this group — such as the prohibition on smoking. From all that has been said above and last week, it can be concluded that supervised fasting is not detrimental to one’s health, especially in these times when we are eating more than necessary.The type of fasts that could be recommended safely are those which are calorie restricted — that last for about a day — and are practised periodically.When fasting is not done in an appropriate fashion, however, there is a strong likelihood of the occurrence of health problems, some of which will stem from nutritional deficiencies and some from causing distress to organs of the body and its metabolic systems. For instance, an early manifestation of fasting-related problems is the occurrence of headaches. Prolonged fasting could result in anaemia, low blood sugar levels and irregular heart beats. Fasting in any form cannot be recommended for those who are on certain medications or for those with serious ailments, and certainly not for pregnant women. nsingh.rxpress@expressindia.com
