Is it me or have you heard more and more about how intermittent fasting has become so popular!?! As a follower of Christ, fasting has been around since the beginning of time. The modern world we live in is starting to understand its importance. But what can fasting do for your health and even your spirituality?
First, what is fasting? Fasting is the deliberate act of abstaining from food or certain types of food for a defined period and has been practiced for centuries across various cultures and religious beliefs. Beyond its spiritual significance, fasting has gained attention for its potential health benefits in modern times. I will dive into the secular advantages of fasting and then explore its connections to your spiritual health.
Secular Benefits of Fasting:
Weight Management and Fat Loss: Fasting can lead to a calorie deficit, promoting weight loss. Intermittent fasting, for instance, has gained popularity for its role in reducing body weight and body fat percentage.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Fasting can help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. This is especially beneficial for individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cellular Repair and Longevity: Fasting triggers a process called autophagy, where cells remove damaged components and regenerate, potentially contributing to longevity and disease prevention.
Brain Health and Cognitive Function: Fasting may enhance brain function by promoting the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain health and learning.
Reduced Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous diseases. Fasting has shown the potential to reduce markers of inflammation and oxidative stress.
Biblical Foundations of Fasting:
Spiritual Discipline: Fasting is prominently mentioned in the Bible as a practice of self-discipline and devotion. Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:2).
Seeking God's Guidance: Fasting is often associated with seeking God's guidance and wisdom. The prophet Daniel fasted to gain understanding and insight (Daniel 10:2-3).
Repentance and Humility: Fasting can symbolize repentance and humility before God. The people of Nineveh fasted as a sign of repentance, and God responded with compassion (Jonah 3:5-10).
Strengthens Prayer: Fasting can intensify prayer. In the New Testament, fasting is linked with fervent prayer and seeking God's intervention (Acts 14:23).
Self-Control and Surrender: Fasting cultivates self-control and the surrender of physical desires for spiritual growth. Paul emphasized self-control through fasting in his teachings (1 Corinthians 9:27).
Fasting holds a diverse range of benefits, from promoting physical health to nurturing spiritual growth. Whether you approach fasting from a secular perspective seeking health advantages or embrace it as a spiritual practice rooted in biblical teachings, the act of intentionally abstaining can have a profound impact on various aspects of your life.
If you are interested in the health benefits of re-booting your metabolism and would like to try the RESET, a nutritionally supplemented 3-day fast, click the photo below or shoot us an e-mail. Here are some of the benefits of the RESET:
Resets your metabolism to burn fat, the way your body was designed to do, instead of sugar
Supports gut health
Supports good digestive function
Supports better liver function
Promotes weight loss, on average people lose 6lbs
Promotes appetite control
Works at the cellular level to help with healthy aging.
