Fasting Therapy
Fasting is considered one of the most important modalities of a healthy lifestyle. In Naturopathy, it is not just about abstaining from food, but about giving the body and mind complete rest to heal, cleanse, and rejuvenate.
What Happens in the Body during Fasting
During fasting, the body naturally burns and eliminates toxins. Drinking alkaline juices helps in this cleansing process. On average, 6–8 glasses of liquids are recommended daily. Rest is crucial, as the body uses energy to flush out poisons and toxic waste materials. Diseased, damaged, and aged cells are broken down and eliminated. Amino acids released from diseased cells help build new, healthy tissues.
The lungs, liver, kidneys, and skin—our eliminative organs—function more efficiently. Harmful acids like uric acid are expelled more effectively.
Intermittent Fasting
For those seeking a practical option, intermittent fasting is taught at our hospital through one-to-one consultations. This safe and effective method can be practiced at home under guidance.
Preparing for Fasting
- Mental readiness is essential before beginning a fast.
- Prolonged fasting should always be done under the supervision of a qualified Naturopath.
- The duration depends on the patient’s age, health condition, and medical history.
- Beginners may start with short fasts of 2–3 days, gradually extending the duration under professional guidance.
Health Benefits
Fasting provides physiological rest to the digestive and protective systems, improving overall nutrient absorption and utilization. Contrary to common fears, vital organs, the nervous system, and the brain remain unharmed during fasting. Fasting is highly beneficial in managing conditions such as:
- Indigestion, constipation, and digestive disorders
- Gas and acidity
- Bronchial asthma
- Obesity and high blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Cardiac ailments
- Skin problems
- Arthritis and joint issues
Precautions
Although fasting therapy is beneficial, it must be practiced under medical supervision, especially for people with chronic illnesses, nutritional deficiencies, or those who are pregnant. Prolonged or unsupervised fasting can lead to weakness, dehydration, or other health risks. The duration and type of fast should be customized to the individual’s health status.