A 3-day fast can regenerate the entire immune system, even in the elderly (fasting with water+tea). Many studies have shown that “starvation” causes the body to produce white blood cells, which have a role in the fight against infections. Researchers at the University of Southern California say that this finding would be especially beneficial for patients who have conditions that lower their immunity, such as those undergoing chemotherapy. Benefits have also been seen in the elderly, who have a weakened immune system and are generally unable to effectively fight off common infections.
Fasting causes a “regenerative switch” in the body, which causes stem cells to produce new white cells in the body (these being essential for the entire immune system). At the same time, the body “gets rid” of damaged or “aged” components through the autophagy mechanism. Long fasting (>24h) forces the body to use the body’s glucose and fat stores as an energy source.
In one study, participants were asked to fast regularly for 2 or 3 days over a period of 6 months. After these 6 months, they were evaluated and it was found that fasting led to a decrease in the PKA enzyme. This enzyme is correlated with the acceleration of the aging process, but also with the development of cancer.
When you fast, the body tries to conserve energy, a process that leads to the recycling of damaged immune cells. It has been observed that fasting for 72 hours helps patients undergoing chemotherapy in reducing the toxicity related to this treatment.
Fasting is not recommended for breastfeeding or pregnant women and for people who have eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia).
