In the last decade, fasting has gained popularity in the world of health and wellness. There are many benefits to this eating pattern, such as its ability to aid in weight loss and control, increase energy levels, improve mental clarity, and even improve the immune system. So what are the conclusions of science about the relationship between fasting and the Microbiome?
Before addressing this possible relationship, it is important to understand what fasting actually is.
Fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of fasting and eating, that is, the fasting practitioner only eats during a specific time, and remains fasting the rest of the time. It does not specify which foods to eat, but when to eat them, so it is not considered a diet, but an eating strategy. One popular method is the 16/8 protocol, where all meals are taken within an 8-hour window (for example, from noon to 8 p.m.) and fasting is done the remaining hours of the day. Another approach is the 5:2 method, where you restrict your caloric intake for 2 days of the week and eat a regular, healthy diet on the other 5 days. Then there is the alternate day fast, where you fast on alternate days.
The relationship between fasting and possible benefits to the Microbiome is a topic that has been studied in recent years by the scientific community. Some studies have found that after Ramadan, individuals had higher levels of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Akkermansia, Faecalibacterium, and Roseburia. Fasting also increased microbial richness (number of different species in the microbiome), diversity (how diverse and evenly distributed the species are), and increased levels of short-chain fatty acids, such as butyric acid, which are generally associated with a healthy gut microbiota.
It is certain and known that, in addition to fasting, what we eat has a very strong effect on the bacteria that live in our gut. A high-fiber diet provides fuel for these beneficial microorganisms, and in turn they provide their host with substances that benefit their metabolism, immune system, and even mental health. It is important to remember that fasting is not for everyone and may be associated with some risks. It is not recommended for certain people, such as children, pregnant women, or people at risk for an eating disorder.
The good news? Stargut provides you with a 7-week program and has a set of qualified professionals at your disposal to help you start your fasting journey safely and help you get all the powerful health and Microbiome benefits this eating pattern has to offer! 🙂
