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Advantages of intermittent fasting in the holy month of Ramadan

Ramadan is believed to be the ideal time to reflect on one’s life, improve, manifest goodness, and cultivate spirituality. When you fast during this month, you are helping to naturally detoxify your body. In addition, it is a great opportunity to start living a healthy lifestyle and avoid various health issues.

According to Ruchika Midhas, nutritionist and dietitian, intermittent fasting during this month not only uses your fat reserves but also helps your body dispose of toxins from fat deposits as well.

“With your digestive system going through a month-long overhaul, your body naturally detoxifies, giving you an opportunity to adopt a healthier lifestyle even after Ramadan,” she said.

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Health studies have shown that Ramadan fasting increases red blood cells, white blood cells, platelet count, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and decreases the blood cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-c).

Several studies have shown that intermittent fasting can effectively reduce fat and weight. We reduce our chances of getting chronic ailments, such as cholesterol, heart disease, obesity and high blood pressure when we restrict our food intake during the day. Fasting for a longer period of time leads to a metabolic switch that aids in fast weight loss.

When Muslims fast during Ramadan, they eat exclusively at night, shifting from their normal eating habits. During intermittent fasting (IF) for more than 12-14 hours without food or water, liver glycogen is depleted and replenished, explains Dr Meghana Pasi, Nutrition Consultant, MyThali program, ArogyaWorld.

In terms of insulin resistance, intermittent fasting has been shown to be beneficial. Taking action to reduce insulin in your body will result in a huge reduction in blood sugar levels.

A disadvantage to intermittent fasting

It should come as no surprise that fasting is not recommended for people with eating disorders, for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and for people who are on medications for diabetes and other chronic health conditions.

The IF approach also emphasizes when to eat, rather than what to eat, which may adversely affect health if the quality and quantity of food are compromised. The entire month of Ramadan should be spent following a balanced and healthy diet regimen.