If you’re struggling to lose weight, you’re not alone. According to 2023 statistics, 61% of Americans are trying to lose weight. Faced with the challenge and countless weight loss methods on the market, some people are turning to intermittent fasting (IF) as a tool for weight loss.
Intermittent fasting involves refraining from eating during a “fasting window,” usually between 16 and 20 hours. The idea is to allow the body to burn fat more effectively and reduce daily consumption of calories.
Recently, many people are trying a new form of fasting, known as dry fasting.
During dry fasting, you refrain from eating food for certain periods of time. You also abstain from all liquids. That’s the “dry” part. Great! You might think. You’ll lose even more weight that way, right? And since it’s only for a day or two, you decide to give it a try.
But what is a dry fast? Is it safe? We’ll break it down below.
Fasting for spiritual reasons vs. fasting for health reasons
Fasting for spiritual reasons is beyond the scope of this article. But briefly, some religious practices include dry fasting as an important part of their faith. However, among those who include dry fasting, they also include allowable exemptions for elderly people, those with medical conditions, people who are pregnant, and those who perform heavy physical labor.
In addition, this type of fasting is limited to 16 hours, at most, during specific times of the year and followed by appropriate rehydration. In contrast, fasting for weight-loss reasons tends to be a more frequent, year-round practice.
What is dry fasting?
When you fast, your body starts to break down muscle and fat. After all, it needs to live on something. As part of this process, toxic byproducts must be flushed out of your body. That means to fast effectively, you actually need more water than you normally consume, not less.
Unlike intermittent fasting, dry fasting involves not drinking any fluids during the entire fasting period. Some people believe that dry fasting could help reduce inflammation, delay the aging process, or lead to enhanced weight loss. However, there is not enough scientific data to support these claims. Additionally, proponents of dry fasting don’t acknowledge the potential health risks that could go hand-in-hand with dry fasting.
How long can you dry fast?
Dry fasting occasionally is unlikely to cause a problem. Most people who practice dry fasting do so for 12 to 24 hours at a time. However, some people may take on extended dry fasts that last up to three days.
The longer the dry-fasting period, the higher the risk of uncomfortable side effects and developing adverse health effects.
Dry fasting regularly means you’re not only denying your body food, but you’re also denying it crucial hydration. Dry fast long enough (even on and off) and you risk headaches, fatigue, and hypoglycemia, which can lead to fainting. You can also develop urinary infections, kidney stones, and even organ failure.
Here’s another thing: If you eliminate water, your body will produce hormones and chemicals to retain what little water there is. Your body’s need to keep things balanced is called homeostasis — and that requires water.
Is dry fasting safe?
Dry fasting may be all the rage with some celebrities, but it’s probably not a good idea to take fasting advice from someone who wants to lose “camera” weight. If you want to give regular (non-dry) fasting a try, it’s best to run it by your doctor first.
If you decide to join the intermittent fasting tribe, don’t leave home without a water bottle filled with freshly filtered water. Your body will thank you for it. Traditional intermittent fasting is safer due to the consumption of fluids and electrolytes during the fasting period or “window.”
Hydrating properly during your fast
Staying hydrated is an essential component of successful intermittent fasting and feeling great during your fasting window. Plus, balancing your electrolyte levels by drinking enough fluids can help prevent headaches and fatigue.
Looking for a water bottle for your fast? GEO Sports Bottles offers a variety of sizes, styles, and fun colors. These bottles are designed to last a long time in rugged conditions and are BPA-free.
Please note, this article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek guidance from your doctor or other qualified medical professional before undertaking a fasting regime.
Deja un comentario