The surprising biblical roots of intermittent phase revealed as the diet trend grows
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A popular diet trend can have its origin in the Bible.
The intermittent fasting, a feeding pattern based on time limits, intends to help with weight loss and other health benefits, according to May Clinic.
There are several types of intermittent fasting, but all follow the same concept of alternation between fasting and food, a practice that is often mentioned in biblical writings.
This weight loss plan works better than the traditional diet, the study finds
What is intermittent fasting?
With a restricted approach to time for intermittent fasting, the diet only eats during a certain window. For example, with method 16/8, the person fasts for 16 hours and then can eat within a period of eight hours, between 10 am and 6 pm
The intermittent fasting, a feeding pattern based on time limits, is intended to help with weight loss and other health benefits. (Istock)
Other versions involve fasting for 24 hours once or twice a week, or just consume limited calories in fasting days.
“The idea is that intermittent fasting causes the body cells to change how they work,” says the May Clinic website. “Chronometer feeding can push cells to focus on repair, energy use and balance of functions throughout the body.”
What the Bible says about fasting
Religious fasting is practiced in many religions, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and Jainism, as well as Hinduism, Judaism and Taoism, according to research.
About 21% of Americans report that they fast for certain periods of time for religious reasons, according to a 2024 survey of the PEW Research Center.
Religious fasting is practiced in many religions, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and Jainism, as well as Hinduism, Judaism and Taoism. (Istock)
Some see intermittent fasting as a modern form of biblical fasting.
Fasting is mentioned in the Bible as a way of being closer to God.
In Matthew 6: 16-18, for example, Jesus instructs his followers on how to fast.
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“When fasting, you don’t look bleak as hypocrites, since their faces disfigure to show others who are fasting. I really tell you that they have received their reward in their entirety. Specifically, when you fast, you put oil in your head and wash your face. Then, it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only for your father, who does not feel;
While religious fasting is for spiritual purposes, intermittent fasting can also have physical and mental benefits, such as weight loss and focus. (Istock)
Fasting is also mentioned in Joel 2:12, when the Lord declares: “However, even now, he returns to me with all your heart, with fasting, crying and mourning.”
Several religions teach that fasting improves self -control, increases spiritual awareness and even encourages empathy for the least fortunate, according to Pew.
Potential benefits and risks
While religious fasting is for spiritual purposes, intermittent fasting can also have physical and mental benefits that go beyond the main objective of weight loss.
Studies have shown that practice can have positive impacts on blood pressure, cardiovascular health, cognitive function and other health factors, but long -term effects are not so clear.
Fasting is mentioned in the Bible as a way of being closer to God.
“When changes are produced with this metabolic switch, it affects the body and the brain,” Johns Hopkins’ neuroscientist, Mark Mattson, who has studied the intermittent fasting for 25 years, he says on the hospital website.
Mattson’s research has confirmed multiple health benefits associated with fasting, including greater longevity, a thinner physicist and a clear mind.
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“Many things happen during intermittent fasting that can protect organs against chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, age -related neurodegenerative disorders, including intestinal inflammatory disease and many types of cancer,” he said.
However, News Digital previously reported a 2024 study that linked restricted food in time with a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular death.
Studies have indicated multiple health benefits associated with fasting, including greater longevity, a thinner body and a clear mind. (Istock)
“Intermittent fasting is not appropriate for people with a history of disorderly eating or active eating disorders, those with hypoglycemia or diabetes type 1 in insulin, children under 18, pregnant women or infants, and more,” said the dietitian registered in New Jersey headquarters, Lauren Harris-Pincus, News Digital said in time.
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The cardiologist with the headquarters in Ohio, Dr. Lou Vadlamani, did not participate in the study, but told News Digital that it would be “exaggerated” concluding that the fast has a direct impact on the risk of heart attack.
“It certainly raises many questions and supports the need for a more complete study, since intermittent fasting has become very common,” he said.
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As with each important lifestyle change, it is important to consult a doctor before starting intermittent fasting, experts advise.
Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a variety of stories issues that include food and drink, travel and health.