What Fasting Does to the Body?

Essentially, fasting cleanses our body of toxins and forces cells into processes that are not usually stimulated when a steady stream of fuel from food is always present. When we fast, the body does not have its usual access to glucose, forcing the cells to resort to other means and materials to produce energy.

What happens to your body when you fast for 16 hours?

This may lead to weight gain, digestive problems and the development of unhealthy eating habits. 16/8 intermittent fasting may also cause short-term negative side effects when you're first getting started, such as hunger, weakness and fatigue — though these often subside once you get into a routine.

What are benefits of fasting?

The health benefits of fasting include a decreased resting heart rate, decreased blood pressure, improved pumping action of the heart, increased insulin sensitivity and reduced LDL cholesterol, fasting insulin and inflammation.

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.