Are There Any Health Benefits of Fasting in Hinduism?

Are There Any Health Benefits of Fasting in Hinduism?
Page content

Fasting in Hinduism

In most religions, including Hinduism, fasting means abstinence from food in observance of a holy ceremony or religious ritual. The popular belief that fasting is only for attaining spiritual well-being is partially true. There are various benefits of fasting backed up by health experts.

In Hinduism, the health benefits of fasting follow a two-fold approach. Firstly, fasting is a great channel for self-discipline. Secondly, it keeps an individual healthy and active. The fasting ritual in Hinduism follows two concepts: living in a clean environment and having moral thoughts. Generally, a Hindu fasts on certain days of the month, especially lunar days (during a full moon or waning moon) and weekdays. Observing fasts on Hindu festivals, like Navaratri and Karva Chaut, is common among Hindu women.

The fasting ritual takes different forms:

• A common fasting ritual may mean avoiding “tamasic” foods like fish and meat for a couple of days. This is applicable to non-vegetarians only. Most Hindus abstain from eating such foods for more than one day.

• Moderate fasting involves avoiding solid foods and adopting a liquid diet consisting of vegetable juice or fruit juice. Moderate fasting is more prevalent during festivals.

• Some follow a strict fasting ritual by consuming only water or avoiding any form of liquid for a set number of days. The Karva Chauth fasting ritual among women is the best example of abstinence from liquids. (Source: The Himalayan Academy)

According to the Ayurveda, the ancient Hindu medical system, when a person fasts, the digestive organs get cleansed and corrected. Fasting also controls emotional imbalances of the body and prevents acidity and flatulence. But, do scientists and health experts agree with this notion? Are there any conclusive benefits of fasting?

Health Benefits of Fasting in Hinduism: What the Scientific Community Has to Say About It?

There is some debate on whether fasting in Hinduism is a healthy way to cleanse our digestive system and improve our fitness levels. According to the late William Esser, N.D, D.C, co-founder of ANHS and Director of Dr. Essers Health Ranch in Lake Worth, Fla:

Fasting, once considered a fad, has gained acceptance not only by a constantly increasing segment of society — and has also earned the stamp of approval by many in the scientific community.

He also adds that fasting can be a healthy gift to an overburdened, sick body if followed “under qualified and experienced supervision”

Fasting lets the body “desalt”. Research has proved that people “over consume” salt than the normal requirement of the body. This can cause water logging, and become a major factor in elevating blood pressure and affecting the cardiovascular system. Some Hindus fast by avoiding salt completely on a particular day of the month.

One of the key benefits of fasting is improving muscular performance. Fasting eliminates lactic acid, which reduces muscle fatigue. It also improves blood circulation and ensures a healthy heart.

But, Dr. Jennifer Marano, Co-director of the Center for Chiropractic and Conservative Therapy warns people to consider various factors before fasting. She says:

Not everyone is a good candidate for fasting. Many factors need to be considered before a fast is undertaken. Not every condition will respond optimally to fasting and conservative care alone. Occasionally, medical care may be necessary.

So, it is very important to fast under medical supervision only. If you are not a good candidate for fasting, it would be advisable to follow your doctor’s advice before acting.

References

https://www.hinduwebsite.com/hinduism/h_food.asp

https://www.bodybuildingtipsguide.com/blog/fasting-may-improve-muscular-fitness-and-health/

https://www.experiencefestival.com/a/Fast/id/59495

https://www.healthpromoting.com/Articles/articles/benefit.htm

Disclaimer

The information in this article should not be considered medical advice. The information in this article is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure any ailment. Always check with your physician before taking any products or following any advice you have read on Brighthub.com. Always consult your doctor before you start, stop or change anything that has been previously prescribed.