I just finished a 48 hours fast and here is my experience:
It was not terrible. First 24 hours are difficult but if you can carry on around 36 hours then you enter a different phase where the hunger does not bother you and you are very much at peace with yourself.
By 24 hours for sure the body starts utilizing fats as a source of energy because by that time the body has already depleted glycogen so gluconeogenesis sets in and fats start melting or burning , at the same time preserving proteins. Ketosis is in full pace at 24 hours, because the hepatic and muscle glycogen has depleted by then (glycogenolysis).
A 48 hours fast does not develop into protein catabolism.
Medically speaking, Growth Harmone also increases while fasting. As obvious, Insulin secredtion goes down and Glucagon increases to maintain blood sugar.
Fasting does give some tiredness but one has to keep hydrated. I took sufficient amount of water and added salt in between to the water and on my second day I did take some black tea and coffee (without sugar).
The autophagy starts at about 18 hours of fasting. It multiplies several fold by 36 hours and it’s a good healing process for the body so fasting is like a ‘doctor sitting in the body helping you’. Fasting is a very good way to lose weight and keep your body in good shape.
intermittent fasting has definitive advantages wherein if one fast for about 12 to 16 hours with 8 hours of eating in a 24 hours cycle.
fasting is also good and once one has become accustomed to 24 hours fasting one can extend it further to 36 48 hours. All in all it was a pleasant experience and my advice is also that if you’re fasting keep working on the day like for example I did go to gym on both days and I was walking around like anyone else.
iv) Break the fast by eating something light. I broke the fast by eating an apple and a bowl of soup (from a Thai restaurant which was just very delicious and I applauded the restaurant owner for that).
Note: I have undertaken fasting experiments in the past, to the tune of 72 hours, 96 and 120 hours. Once you cross 3 days, you get into a very different stage of tranquility that can not be described here.
Interesting read, intermittent fasting can support overall body health by promoting better metabolism and giving some time for body to repair. Its suggested sometimes but its not not suitable for everyone so its better to check with a doctor or a nutritionist before starting it.
I completely agree with you intermittent fasting is good for health but not for everyone. I do this fasting along with that I do some workout and believe me within 3 months I lost 5 kgs and also feels so good. No tiredness, no body pain and the most important feeling energetic. Some people don’t understand the concept of intermittent fasting. They take it to the another level where they have some issues with body sugar level and those who have some issues they should consult their doctor first.
Sounds like a very interesting experience. Thank you for sharing @Hbdoctor sir.
Can you please also mention how you broke the fast?
A lot of people overdo salts or sugars based on craving or fatigue after fasting for a lengthy periods of time.
Interesting. I appreciate the way you’ve described and detailed your experience. This just highlighted the memory of my 8 days fasting experience. Though that fasting was just for religious purpose so I don’t have the detailing like yours. The idea of fasting for research purpose is fascinating. Thank you for sharing the experience
Just like our ancestors belived and created many techniques for fasting (Upvasa/Vrata). Such as, Ekadashi fasting which can help balance the body’s energy due to the lowest atmospheric pressure on these days.
Sir your dedication towards your health is outstanding. You are not only benefitting yourself, You are also helping the society by sharing your experience in details. Experience like that coming from a professional practitioner is very motivational.
Thanks for sharing your experience @Hbdoctor
It’s awesome how you stayed active and kept hydrated during your fast.
I love how you explained the body’s shift to fat-burning and the benefits of autophagy so clearly.
Breaking the fast gently with light food is such a smart move. Sounds like a powerful journey—thanks for inspiring us!
to have that much dedication into it , I won’t have been able to control my bhukad dimag only