Fasting: Religion and Physiology

In honor of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, I thought it would be appropriate to delve into the origins and significance of fasting. Islam is not the only faith where fasting is prescribed. Restricting food intake is only one of many forms of fasts. The reasons for fasting are not always religious, non-religious reasons can be political (like Gandhi’s famous peace fasts) or even medical or health related.

Most cultures incorporate fasting though religious practices. The benefits of abstaining from food and water have been observed in many cultures dating back centuries. The general idea behind the fast is that restricting food (and in most cases water,) helps the observer connect more readily with the higher power. By limiting physical satisfaction, individuals can separate physical from spiritual desires. This therefore helps one understand impurities and human imperfections. This seems to be a common theme across the board. 

In the Far East, fasting is a part of Buddhist and Hindu practice. Although, not generally encouraged for most Buddhists, fasting is part of the clergy’s practice. In Hinduism, there are variations in the customs from one region to another. However, those who do observe the practice, do so in worship of the Gods, in remembrance or mourning as well as to guard against egoism and self-indulgence. 

In Christian practice, it is a generally held belief that abstaining from the wants of the flesh frees the soul. Although some Christians observe by only giving up certain items (for example during lent,) other churches observe whole days of fast without food.  In the Greek Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, for example, fasting is used to guard against gluttony and self indulgence.

In Judaism, fasting is part of the ritual of atonement from sin. In addition, fasting is to commemorate of those lost in the past as well as to celebrate salvation and gratitude. Observers are to abstain from food, drink as well as other pleasures such as lotions, oils and physical contact. The belief is that abstaining from the simple physical indulgences will increase one’s appreciation for the dependence on God and heighten the understanding of loss.

The premise behind fasting in Islam is very similar, and in fact is derived from the tradition of fasting in Judaism and Christianity. Fasting is practiced primarily during the month of Ramadan, marked by the Islamic lunar calendar, but other days are encouraged as well.  It is believed that in abstaining from food and drink, you can more fully understand the plight of those less fortunate and gratitude for what you have. It is also a time of reflection on your actions, words and thoughts, since Muslims are encouraged to refrain from angry outbursts, impure or hateful thoughts and distasteful actions especially during Ramadan. It’s a time for self-reflection and a chance to improve personal conduct, find motivation for self-control as well as seek atonement from God.

There are many proponents as well as opponents in health and nutrition on the topic of fasting. Some argue that the practice is dangerous, and could throw off the body’s natural rhythm and metabolism. Others would assert that the opposite is true; that the occasional reduction of caloric intake is actually beneficial, if not necessary for optimal biological function. This reduction allows the body to slow down and shift from storage mode to “spring cleaning” mode- providing opportunity for the body to clear up the intestines, joints and fat cells of the stores of toxins. Opponents point fingers at the fasting fad, calling the claims of cleanses, detoxes and fasts fraudulent. Question is, can a practice dating back hundreds of years and spanning dozens of cultures be considered a fad?

Most studies conducted on the matter conclude that to some effect the reduction of calories does in fact result in beneficial effects on insulin production and glycogenisis (breakdown of stored fat to form glucose.) Under controlled conditions, and medical supervision and support, fasting could improve your health, lower your blood pressure, your cholesterol and blood sugar levels. But since we are physical and spiritual beings, the spiritual effects must be considered. This tradition can help the observer find balance between the physical world and the spiritual world.

Is fasting part of your religious or health practice? Ever been curious about the beneficial effects of a supported detoxification program? The next blog will explore the effects of detoxes and cleanses. Can’t wait? Get in touch with me now!