TO LIVE LONGER AND HEALTHIER?
Dr Isabelle Meurgey and Dr Alain Butnaru
Fasting is a practice that is as old as humanity itself. For thousands of years, it has been part of numerous cultures and spiritual traditions, and our bodies have adapted by adopting a new metabolism that is beneficial to health in order to make up for this absence of food.
Today, people are taking more of an interest in fasting, but from a more scientific point of view. It is not just perceived as an act of faith or a tradition, but as a promising therapeutic tool. We know about the virtues of intermittent fasting in neutralising the damaging effects of our lifestyle, both in terms of diet (junk food, pesticides, overabundance of food) and the effects of stress on our metabolism.
But we can take this further and enhance all the benefits in an exponential way with a one-week water fast:
• Naturally detoxifying
When there is no food supply, the liver and kidneys – the primary organs of elimination – step up their action, allowing the body to get rid of any accumulated toxins.
• Regenerates the cells thanks to autophagia
Autophagia, a process discovered by researcher Yoshinori Ohsumi (Nobel Prize for Medicine 2016), is stimulated during fasting. This mechanism recycles the defective components of the cells, thus slowing down aging and particularly the risk of degenerative diseases.
• Improves the metabolic markers
Fasting reduces insulin resistance, regulates the blood glucose levels and supports a healthy lipid profile, thus lowering the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
• Reduces inflammation
In the absence of food, the body lowers its production of inflammatory cytokines, a key factor in the development of chronic illness.
• Stimulates the cognitive functions
The ketonic bodies produced during fasting nourish the brain in an effective way, improving concentration, memory and mental clarity.
• Boosts longevity
Studies show that fasting can activate the genes associated with cell repair and longevity, suggesting that fasting might have a protective effect against aging.
Essential precautions
Though the water fast has a number of benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for expectant mothers, children or teenagers, fragile elderly people, or those who suffer from certain illnesses such as type 1 diabetes, renal insufficiency, eating disorders or severe chronic conditions. Before starting a prolonged fast, it is important to see a healthcare professional for suitable monitoring.
A week-long water fast is more than simply abstaining from eating. It is a holistic experience that allows you to reboot your mind and body, disconnect from old habits and reconnect with yourself. By giving your body a well-deserved break, fasting promotes cell regeneration, improves metabolic function and strengthens the immune system. It also encourages us to be more mindful of what we really need, helping us to develop a healthier and more balanced relationship with food. However, it is essential to think carefully before fasting and to do it in a controlled way, respecting your individual requirements and paying attention to any medical counterindications. Fasting is not a miracle solution, but a powerful tool which, when included in a comprehensive approach to healthcare, can contribute to long-lasting wellbeing.
By reviving this ancestral practice, we can reinvent our relationship with health, prioritising balance, simplicity and self-awareness. Fasting reminds us of the importance of taking care of our body and mind, in a world where excess and overstimulation are omnipresent.
Dr Isabelle Meurgey: Doctor of anti-aging and aesthetic medicine. Graduate of the Rouen medical faculty. Has specialised in preventative and performance medicine since 1997. Permanent member of the French Society of Aesthetic Medicine.
More informations: docteurisabellemeurgey.com
Dr Alain Butnaru: Graduate of the Paris Medical Faculty. Aesthetic and
Anti-Aging Medicine since 1985. Permanent member of the French Society of Aesthetic Medicine. Degrees in Morphological and Anti-Aging Medicine.
More informations: docteuralainbutnaru.com
