Brenda Khan
Fasting diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people turning to them for weight loss or health benefits. However, despite some research suggesting that fasting can protect against diabetes and heart disease, it is not without its risks. Fasting diets can be dangerous for some people, and it is important to speak to a healthcare professional before starting one. This is especially true for those with certain health conditions, those taking medication, or those under the age of 25.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fasting may bring health benefits | Fasting can be dangerous for some people |
| People with certain health conditions or who are taking certain medications | Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people under the age of 25 |
| Not eating enough nutrients | Lack of fibre can increase the risk of cancer and have an adverse effect on digestive and immune health |
| Not for everyone | Some people may not find this diet a good fit for medical reasons or because it doesn't match their picture of a nutritious and sustainable diet |
| Speak to your doctor | It's always a good idea to speak to your doctor before overhauling your diet, especially if you take medications or have health problems |
What You'll Learn
Fasting diets are not based on research
Fasting diets can be dangerous for some people, especially those with certain health conditions or who are taking certain medications. Even if you are generally healthy, fasting can be challenging and may not provide all the nutrients your body needs, such as fibre. This can increase the risk of cancer and have an adverse effect on digestive and immune health.
It is always a good idea to speak to your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you are considering a more extreme fasting plan. For most people, a fast of 12 to 14 hours is generally considered safe, but it is important to ensure that you are still making healthy food choices overall. As one expert explains, "It looks like when you eat matters a lot, but what you eat probably matters more."
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Fasting can be dangerous for some people
Fasting may also be dangerous for people who are under the age of 25, pregnant or breastfeeding. There is also a risk that people on a fasting diet will not eat enough nutrients, such as fibre. This can increase the risk of cancer and have an adverse effect on digestive and immune health.
However, most research has been done in cells and animals in the lab. In some animals, certain fasting diets seem to protect against diabetes and heart disease.
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Fasting can increase the risk of cancer
Fasting can be dangerous for some people, and it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting a fasting diet. This is especially true if you are under the age of 25, pregnant or breastfeeding, taking certain medications, or have certain health conditions.
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Fasting can have an adverse effect on digestive and immune health
Most research on fasting has been done in cells and animals in the lab, but this work has provided early clues as to how periods without food might affect the body. In some animals, certain fasting diets seem to protect against diabetes and heart disease. However, it is always a good idea to speak to your doctor before overhauling your diet, especially if you take medications or have health problems.
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Fasting can be challenging to stick to
Fasting is not for everyone. It can be especially challenging for those with certain health conditions or who are taking certain medications. If you are considering fasting, it is important to speak to your health care provider first.
For those who are able to fast, it can be a safe and effective way to improve health. A fast of 12 to 14 hours is generally considered safe for most people. However, it is important to make sure you are still picking healthy foods during your eating window.
If you are struggling to stick to a fasting diet, there are some things you can try. Firstly, make sure you are staying hydrated and getting enough electrolytes. Secondly, try to avoid thinking about food by planning distractions on fasting days. Finally, ensure you are still getting enough nutrients by choosing healthy foods during your eating window.
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Frequently asked questions
Fasting can be dangerous for some people, especially those with certain health conditions or who are taking certain medications. It is also not recommended for people under the age of 25, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Fasting can lead to a lack of nutrients, such as fibre, which can increase the risk of cancer and have an adverse effect on digestive and immune health.
People under the age of 25, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should not try a fasting diet plan. People with certain health conditions or who are taking certain medications should also avoid fasting.
It is important to speak to a healthcare professional before starting any fasting diet plan. They will be able to advise you on whether it is safe for you to fast and provide guidance on how to do so safely.
