Health Benefits of Fasting

By Bello Ruqayyah Abiodun

Fasting is the act of abstaining from food and or drinks, during certain hours for whatever purpose. Similarly, the literal meaning of the Arabic term which is Sawm (صَوم) means any form of abstinence, but when used in a religious context, it refers to refraining from engaging in certain actions that would make a person’s fast void as declared by the Lord.

What fasting does Islam recommend; Continued or Intermittent fasting?

Al-Nawawi said in al-Majmoo’, 6/357: 

"With regard to the ruling on continual fasting, it is 'makrooh', and there is no difference of opinion among us concerning that". But is it makrooh in the sense of being forbidden or makrooh in the sense of being disliked? There are two opinions concerning that. The more correct of which according to the companions and the apparent meaning is that it is 'makrooh' in the sense of being forbidden. 

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen also said in al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 6/443: 

"It appears that the ruling with regard to continual fasting is that it is haraam. And Allaah knows best."

This gives us clarity on what sort of fasting Islam recommends. It is not far away from Intermittent fasting.

What then is intermittent fasting?

Many diets focus on what to eat, but intermittent fasting is all about when you eat.

With intermittent fasting, you just don't stop eating, you only stop eating for a specific time.

The Purpose of Fasting in the Quran

As other commands of God, there are many hidden and apparent wisdoms to why a person must fast. Allah has then explained to us clearly what we tend to gain for fasting, in the glorious Qur'an. When taking part in an action, each person would naturally need motivation, and the best way to acquire that motivation is to understand the benefits they would inherit from engaging in that action.

As stated in verse 183 of Chapter 2 of the Qur'an, Allah has made fasting incumbent upon the believers so they may be God-wary. 

Health Benefits of Fasting

Over the years, many other benefits of Fasting have been unveiled but for the purpose of this article, we will be looking at the Health benefits as proven by Healthcare professionals.

1. Fasting Promotes blood sugar control by reducing insulin resistance

Several studies have found that fasting may improve blood sugar control, which may be helpful for those at risk of developing diabetes.

A 2023 study of 209 people found intermittent fasting to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity.

Decreasing insulin resistance can increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing it to transport glucose from the bloodstream to cells more efficiently.

Coupled with the potential blood sugar-lowering effects of fasting, this could help keep blood sugar steady, preventing spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels.

2. Fasting helps in fighting inflammation

While acute inflammation is a natural immune process used to help fight off infections, chronic inflammation can seriously affect one's health negatively. 

Research shows that inflammation may be involved in the development of chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Some studies have found that fasting can help decrease levels of inflammation and promote better health.

One 2022 review of 18 studies even found that intermittent fasting could significantly reduce levels of C-reactive protein, which is a marker of inflammation.

3. Fasting may enhance heart health by improving blood pressure, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels

Heart disease is considered the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for an estimated 19 million deaths globally in 2020.

Some research found that incorporating fasting into your routine may be especially beneficial for heart health.

A review showed that fasting could significantly decrease blood pressure, as well as levels of blood triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL (bad) cholesterol.

4. Fasting Improves brain health

All the ways intermittent fasting can benefit the body, such as reducing inflammation, blood sugar levels, and insulin resistance, may also impact brain health.

An animal research from 2019 shows that intermittent fasting may increase the growth of new nerve cells. This may, in turn, benefit brain function.

Other animal studies have found that intermittent fasting can reduce the risk of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease,Parkinson’s disease and Stroke

All of these may also be applicable in humans and investigations are ongoing regarding that.

5. Fasting may also aid in cancer prevention and increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy

A review published in the American Cancer Society Journal notes that intermittent fasting may benefit the treatment and prevention of cancer.

Another review of test tube and animal suggests that fasting could reduce tumor progression and increase chemotherapy’s effectiveness.

Fasting is associated with various physical and spiritual benefits, from improved health to a stronger connection with the divine. So, why not consider trying it out? After all, following Allah's guidance brings spiritual rewards in addition to physical benefits. 

As the Prophet ﷺ said: "Allah says: Fasting is for me I shall reward for it". (Muslim).

Fasting is a powerful and fulfilling experience, leading to personal growth, improved health and a deeper understanding of one's relationship with the divine,if done with the right intention.

May Allah accept our efforts, bestow upon us His blessings and never deny us of the bountiful rewards associated with Fasting for His cause. Ameen.

References

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fasting-benefits

https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/-/media/453448D7D79948B39D5851D1FF2A0CFE.ashx

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8151159/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/intermittent-fasting-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work