Is it true or false that fasting is a healthy way to lose weight?

Answer 1

Fasting is NOT a good way to diet, fasting is just a way which is related to religion or other purpose. Not a dieting way. But you can go on a water diet where you won't faint unlike in fasting

Answer 2

False. Although there exists a long history of fasting in the tradtions and practices of many religions, this practice was first engaged in out of necessity. Winter stocks of food would run out (before the age of refrigeration, just a century ago) and fasting would often be necessary in the spring, before the first crops could be harvested.

The problem with fasting, in general, and as a means of losing weight, is that after 24 hours of carbohydrate and fat store usage, the body begins to break down muscle protein for energy. Although this was beneficial for survival (speaking in evolutionary terms), it is not a particularly adaptive or healthy activity for individuals in this modern era.

That being said, it IS healthy to increase the brief fasting period from sundown to sunrise. A twelve hour fast has been shown to help in promoting gradual healthy weight loss, improved control of blood glucose levels, and improved energy overall. Ideally, food consumption should stop around 8 p.m., at the latest, and not resume until 7-8 a.m. Also, more frequent smaller meals, consisting of whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits, with protein coming from fish, poultry and comination plates (e.g. rice and beans) helps to control weight. It is important to strictly limit the intake of white sugar and flour products, especially in the form of processed foods. Also, fried foods should be severely curtailed.

Lastly, people who get at least eight hours of sleep tend to eat significantly less than those who are sleep deprived and chronically tired (because the latter turn to food for energy, when there has not been adequate rest).