The fasting month may be over, but it's still a great introduction to an anti-aging lifestyle.
read more…
Back in 2003, I was a young boy in my late teens who, like most people my age, wanted a chiseled body and six-pack abs. So I went to the gym and talked to my coach. He said it was simple and that a few weeks of growth hormone and steroids would help. I may not have been the smartest person in town at the time, but I certainly knew that I didn't want to use unnatural means to get a good body. This led me to many more coaches and gyms, but unfortunately, most of them had the same advice.
In the summer of 2014, I was reading about Ayurveda and came across the concept of intermittent fasting. At that time, fasting was only associated with religious practices. After years of eating four or five meals a day, intermittent fasting seemed like a daunting prospect. This transition has not been easy. For the first few days, I suffered from hunger, headaches, and general irritability. But when I was able to overcome this with patience and realized the benefits, it became a part of my life.
Intermittent fasting involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. Not only does it help with weight management, but it also gives your digestive cycle a much-needed break. The result is improved heart health, reduced inflammation, strengthened brain function, and improved insulin sensitivity.
It also has great anti-aging effects. Fasting induces a mild stress response in cells, which in turn activates pathways involved in DNA repair and maintenance through a process called autophagy, which plays a role in slowing aging.
This past month has been all about fasting. Ramadan also introduces a more advanced version called dry fasting, where you don't even consume water. Comparing the benefits, a 1-day dry fast is considered equivalent to his 3-day water fast. There's no better way to become mentally alert and kick your caffeine addiction.
Intermittent fasting is most likely to fail if you use mealtimes to consume large amounts of junk. It's important to note that moderation is key here. What's even more important to note is that it's not suitable for everyone. If you are diabetic, pregnant, or suffer from an eating disorder, please consult a medical professional before starting a fasting plan.
After many years and lifestyle changes, I got the six-pack abs I once dreamed of. However, the key to achieving a good and healthy body and mind is discipline. As exercise became a part of my life, so did intermittent fasting.
Health should not be a byproduct of shortcuts. Aim to move your body and practice mindfulness while eating. This will help you look and feel your best.
Virendra Raj Singh is an ACE and ACSM certified coach
