Shko Faraj Agha
Fasting is gaining attention for its health benefits, with the docuseries “Limitless” featuring Chris Hemsworth diving deep into its effects. The series explores its impact on the human body, offering valuable insights from experts like Dr. Peter Attia.
Fasting involves abstaining from food voluntarily, differing from starvation. Its roots are ancient, with cultural and religious significance. The modern one is often pursued for health and longevity, drawing from historical practices.
Glucose and Aging Cells
The docuseries highlights how glucose feeds both healthy and senescent, or “zombie,” cells. Fasting cuts off this glucose supply, weakening these aging cells, potentially slowing down aging and reducing the risks of diseases like cancer.
Ketosis: The Body’s Backup Fuel
When food intake stops, the body shifts to burning stored fat, converting it into ketones in the liver. These ketones provide essential energy, especially for the brain, while also promoting fat loss.
Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting, cycling between eating and fasting periods, is highlighted as an accessible approach. It can help manage weight and reduce unhealthy habits like nighttime snacking.
Extended Fasting
Extended fasting, like the four-day fast attempted by Hemsworth, involves prolonged periods without food. Though challenging, it may enhance cellular regeneration and longevity.
Weight Loss
One primary reason for doing it is weight loss. By reducing the eating window, it can lower calorie intake, leading to weight loss. Additionally, ketosis aids in burning fat more efficiently.
Fasting and Cellular Health
It triggers autophagy, a process that cleans out damaged cells and promotes the regeneration of new ones. This cellular maintenance helps reduce inflammation, delay aging, and improve metabolic health.
Despite its benefits, fasting is not easy. Hemsworth found his extended fast particularly tough, experiencing fatigue, weakness, and intense hunger. Dr. Attia emphasizes the need for motivation and understanding to overcome these challenges.
Fasting can significantly improve health and longevity, but it’s essential to approach it with care. Consulting healthcare professionals before starting is crucial to ensure fasting aligns with individual health goals and conditions.
