Its not everyones cup of tea, but Ive found that fasting once a week helps me focus mentally and physically. And, despite what you might think, its not too tough to do. Usually I choose Sunday when the family naturally slows down and there are fewer demands made. In truth, I look forward to my fasts, especially if Ive had a stressful week.
The primary function of the shortened fast is to allow the organs of the body to rest and go through a general, quick-fix housekeeping. You wont be scrubbed clean the way you are after a ten-day detox, but youll definitely feel a difference. This fast will facilitate the excretion of organic and inorganic poisonous substances, such as iodine, arsenic and mercury, as well as viral agents and oxalates. These are tough for the body to eliminate under ordinary circumstances. Their expulsion is greatly facilitated during a fast since the activity of many internal organs is altered.
The carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and water we ingest are modified by the internal organs through a complex series of metabolic reactions before they can be used by the body. But the majority of these reactions, such as intestinal digestion, nutrient transport, and excretion via the lungs and skin, continue even when we are not eating. The liver alone can store protein and up to seventy-two hours supply of glycogen (stored carbohydrates) which can offer cells nutrients for growth and maintenance. Typically, after energy and protein reserves have been depleted, the body may break down cells to provide the missing nutrients in a process called autolysis. Fat will be broken down, thereby reducing stored body fat levels. Protein requirements will be met first with protein found in the bloodstream and later from the breakdown of interior tissues, such as old, damaged or abnormal cells.
Even though youre fasting for only twenty-four hours, your stomach and intestines will probably shrink a bit. The excretion of digestive juices will decrease, and your intestines will change from being organs of absorption to organs of excretion. The excretion of waste product and toxins will also take place in the liver and other organs participating in the digestive system. A once a-week detoxing program offers continuous, as well as a few dramatic results. Try it:
