Depriving yourself of something you want is difficult enough, but fasting is more than simple self-denial: It goes against your physical needs and a lifetime of habits and mores. This self-denial is one reason why fasting is used in many of the world’s religions, but there is evidence that abstaining from food, at least temporarily, can bring a wealth of health benefits too.

Around the world and throughout time, fasting developed independently among different groups for its spiritual and physical benefits. Now, outside of religious context, some doctors consider fasting an effective method of reducing cholesterol, lowering the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and even extending life span. But this level of deprivation may not be healthy for everyone, and it certainly isn’t a good introduction to living well.

It’s not for everyone

“Fasting is an advanced technique,” says Dr. Joel Fuhrman, author of “The End of Dieting” and a fasting expert. “If someone isn’t already committed to eating healthy both before and after, it just isn’t realistic.”

Going from a strict fast back to a diet of unhealthy foods is more dangerous than skipping the fast altogether. This sort of yo-yo effect is hard on your body.

“Also, the fast itself will be more unpleasant, as your body will go through more intense withdrawal symptoms than if you were someone who was normally eating healthy foods,” Fuhrman says.

These unpleasant feelings— such as headaches, moodiness and difficulty concentrating— are often attributed to hunger by inexperienced fasters, and could give you reason to never fast again. But, several studies have identified that these symptoms stem from changes in the brain brought on by high-fat and high-sugar diets. When you cut out those types of foods suddenly and without warning, your body goes into crisis mode.

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Article Courtesy: http://www.foxnews.com/health/