FASTING, THE HABIT TO PICK UP

On a daily basis, an unbalanced diet, stress, and exposure to toxins overload our bodies. Sometimes, it needs a helping hand to regenerate. Detox fasting, a true natural ally, offers your body a break. By limiting food intake, it activates powerful cleansing mechanisms, such as toxin elimination and cell renewal.

This practice will benefit you in many ways, whether it's to regain energy, improve your digestion, lose weight, or simply refocus on your health. Discover why and how to incorporate this simple and effective practice into your routine for lasting benefits.

Fasting and detoxification are closely linked. By reducing or stopping food intake, fasting activates natural biological mechanisms that promote deep detoxification of the body. During this period, the body begins to draw on its reserves, particularly fats, where fat-soluble toxins often accumulate. Once released, these substances are eliminated by key organs of the detoxification system, such as the liver, kidneys, and intestines, which play a vital role in expelling waste and toxins.

Fasting also stimulates a process called autophagy, a natural cellular cleansing mechanism. During autophagy, cells rid themselves of damaged components, debris, or unnecessary structures. This recycling process not only renews cells, but also deeply cleanses the body, removing non-functional substances that could hinder its proper functioning. Thus, fasting acts as a true trigger for internal purification, not only cleansing fats and promoting the elimination of toxins, but also improving cellular health and reducing inflammation.

In summary, while fasting doesn't replace the body's natural detoxification functions, it acts as a powerful catalyst to maximize the body's natural detoxification. Following a detox fast, tailored to your level and needs, is a powerful and beneficial approach to supporting your overall well-being and promoting true bodily regeneration.

During this time, the body is using energy from recent meals. Insulin levels are still high to manage blood glucose and store excess as glycogen. No major detoxification has yet begun, as the body is focused on digestion.

During this time, the body is using energy from recent meals. Insulin levels are still high to manage blood glucose and store excess as glycogen. No major detoxification has yet begun, as the body is focused on digestion.

After 24 hours of fasting, the body has fully entered "energy-saving" mode. Autophagy intensifies, allowing the recycling of old or dysfunctional cells. Insulin levels drop sharply, facilitating access to stored fat. You also begin to experience a slight improvement in mental clarity thanks to the use of ketone bodies as an energy source.

After two days, the cellular cleansing process is well underway. The body actively recycles damaged cells, reducing inflammation. Hormones like glucagon increase, helping regulate blood sugar, while your gut microbiota begins to evolve, promoting better digestive and immune balance.

After three days of fasting, the body enters a phase of more intense regeneration. Autophagy reaches its peak, and new immune cells begin to form to replace the old ones. You experience a surge of energy, accompanied by a general feeling of lightness and well-being.

A week of fasting allows for profound regeneration. Old and damaged cells are almost entirely eliminated, and new ones take their place. Systemic inflammation decreases significantly, and metabolic processes are optimized. However, this stage requires proper preparation and gradual recovery.

The benefits continue, but after a week, the body may begin to use muscle as an energy source, which can weaken the body. Such a long fast must be strictly supervised by professionals to avoid the risk of deficiencies or imbalances.

Adopting a detox fast can be a great way to cleanse your body and support your overall well-being. However, it's important to follow a program that's tailored to your experience level and needs. Here's a simple example program to get you started, which you can adjust as you feel more comfortable and tune into your body.

If you're new to fasting, starting with a 24-hour period is a great option. This allows your body to begin cleansing without being too intense.

How to do a 24-hour detox fast?

• Day 1 : You fast for 24 hours . This can be from 7 a.m. to 7 a.m. the next day or from 8 p.m. to 8 p.m. During this time, avoid consuming any solid food. You can drink water, unsweetened herbal teas, and green tea to support detoxification.

Goals : Allow the body to begin resting, eliminating toxins and activating autophagy.

If you're ready to take it further and already have some experience with fasting, a 3-day program can offer a more comprehensive detox. This type of fast allows the body to truly immerse itself in the internal cleansing process.

How to do a 3-day detox fast?

• Day 1 : Begin with a 24-hour fasting period as described above.
• Days 2 and 3 : Continue the fast by consuming only liquids. This can include water, homemade vegetable broths, herbal teas, and green tea. If you feel very tired or dizzy, you can add a little fresh vegetable juice or lemon to your water for a little comfort.

Objectives : To enable the body to maximize detoxification by increasing the cellular regeneration process and releasing more toxins.

The 1-week fast is a more advanced approach that is suitable for those with prior experience with fasting or those who are healthy and well-prepared. This extended period allows the body to fully focus on detoxification and regeneration.

How to do a one-week detox fast?

• 3 to 4 days before the fast (Day -4 to -1): You begin with a transition phase, gradually reducing your food intake to lighten the digestive system. Eat light meals, such as soups or vegetable broths.
• Days 1-7: Fasting Phase: You enter the fasting phase. During these days, you focus on consuming fluids (water, broths, tea). You can add natural electrolytes (like a little sea salt to the water) to support hydration.
• 3 to 4 days after the fast (Day 8 to 11) : At the end of the fast, slowly reintroduce solid foods, starting with broths, steamed vegetables and then fruits, to reaccustom your body to digesting food.

Goals : Benefit from deep body detoxification, cell repair, and complete tissue regeneration. According to a clinical study published by Science Daily , fasting activates natural biological mechanisms that promote cellular repair and tissue regeneration, while supporting deep body detoxification.

• Listen to your body : Everyone reacts differently to fasting. If you experience severe symptoms such as dizziness, pain, or extreme weakness, it's important to reassess and consult a healthcare professional if necessary. Fasting shouldn't be a painful experience, but a way to support your health.

• Stay hydrated : Hydration is essential during any type of fast. Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and support bodily functions. Herbal teas and green tea are also excellent options.

• Start gradually : If you are new to fasting, start with a 16 or 24 hour fast and gradually increase the duration as you feel more comfortable.

• Pre- and Post-Fast Preparation : Before beginning a fast, gradually reduce your food intake by eliminating heavy and processed foods. After the fast, reintroduce light, easily digestible foods to avoid upsetting your digestive system.

To go further:

3 detox secrets from a naturopath and skincare specialist

SOS pimples during your detox

How to do intermittent fasting?