Fasting is often used as an effective way to lose weight, but it also helps the body fight disease. Fasting for just two days allows immune cells to regenerate, helping the body fight infection.
Scientists at the University of Southern California tested the effect of 2-4 days of fasting in mice and humans in courses for six months. In both cases, after each course, a decrease in the number of white blood cells in the blood was recorded. In mice, as a result of the fasting cycle, the process of regeneration of white blood cells was launched, thus restoring the body’s defense mechanisms. Walter Longo, professor of gerontology and biological sciences at the University of Southern California, says: “Fasting gives the green light to increase the number of stem cells, restoring the entire system. The good news is that when fasting, the body gets rid of old, damaged cells.” The study also showed that fasting reduces the production of the hormone IGF-1, which is associated with the risk of cancer. A small pilot clinical trial found that fasting for 72 hours before chemotherapy treatment prevented patients from becoming toxic. “While chemotherapy saves lives, it is no secret that it also has significant side effects on the immune system. The results of the study confirm that fasting can alleviate some of the effects of chemotherapy,” says Tanya Dorff, assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Southern California. “More clinical research is needed on this topic and this kind of dietary intervention should only be carried out under the guidance of a physician.”