More and More Medical Researchers Praise the Benefits of Fasting, Some Even Claim It Can Cure Serious Illnesses
“Fasting can even cure certain serious diseases, notably cancer, because cancer cells cannot survive hunger.”
Although scientific studies have not yet confirmed human cures through fasting, its multiple benefits have been demonstrated—especially in the West, where an ever‑growing number of people turn to fasting to purify their bodies and boost natural defenses in a world plagued by medication over‑consumption that has taken a toll on human health.
La Presse interviewed Dr. Néji Daly, a general practitioner specialized in geriatrics and phytotherapy, to discuss the advantages of fasting and the rules that should be followed to maximise its effects, even after the end of Ramadan.
“Fasting is beneficial to the organism in more than one way, both physically and mentally. First, fasting strengthens immunity through the process of autophagy,” he explains.
How Autophagy Works
Autophagy is a biological mechanism that enables our cells to eliminate unnecessary, defective, or toxic components and to recycle those that can be reused. It is triggered when a cell lacks external nutrient inputs—such as during a fast.
Fasting and the Gut Microbiome
Fasting also re‑balances and strengthens the intestinal microbiota, the community of beneficial microbes that protect the gut—the first line of defence against disease, according to the specialist.
- In everyday life, the over‑consumption of low‑quality, sugar‑rich, processed foods destroys this gut flora.
- Excessive use of antibiotics is another major factor that severely disrupts the microbiome.
Stress Relief
For people who practice fasting with conviction and according to proper guidelines, it acts as an antidote to stress, bringing serenity and calming the nerves—essentially a natural anti‑stress remedy, Dr. Daly adds.
Clinical Services in the West
The recognized benefits of fasting have led to the creation of dedicated fasting units in hospitals across Western countries. In these units, patients can try fasting under medical supervision. Dr. Daly stresses, however, that strict rules must be respected to experience fasting safely and fully reap its rewards.
Key Rules for Safe and Effective Fasting
- Moderate Overall Consumption – Avoid overeating before and after the fast.
- Eliminate Harmful Habits – Cut out stimulants (e.g., caffeine, energy drinks) and tobacco.
- Break the Fast Gradually – Re‑introduce food slowly, in small portions, respecting the body’s rhythm.
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water throughout the evening.
- Choose a Balanced “Suhur” – Prefer a pre‑dawn meal composed of low‑glycemic (slow‑release) carbohydrates to sustain energy levels.
“It is essential to think about drinking enough water throughout the night and to have a balanced suhur preferably made of slow‑release sugars,” Dr. Néji Daly emphasizes.
This article was translated from French to English and formatted in Markdown for easy reading and SEO‑friendly publishing.
