The opinion of nutritionists and weight loss experts are divided when it comes to intermittent fasting. The dietary pattern which alternates between fasting and eating period is said to be effective in shedding kilos by some, while others suggest the opposite. Even so, this lifestyle habit is a rage at this time among weight watchers and fitness enthusiasts. New research suggests that intermittent fasting can benefit your health in a way unrelated to weight loss.
New benefit of intermittent fastingAccording to a team of researchers from Canada’s University of British Columbia, fasting can prevent severe symptoms of food poisoning. In lab tests carried on mice, it was found that when administered Salmonella orally to mice that were on fasting for 48 hours, they experienced less infection. The bacteria did not cause food poisoning in the mice as compared to those who were on a normal diet. The scientists stated that fasting can reduce all intestine tissue damage and inflammation, which can be prime causes of gastrointestinal discomfort in case of food poisoning.
Why this happensAs per the researcher, when food present in the intestine is limited, the microbiome separates the remaining nutrients, preventing pathogens from acquiring the energy they need to infect the host.
However, the team of researchers also stated that to fast or not too fast to prevent food poisoning symptoms is a complex topic. There are a lot of theories related to it. No concrete conclusion can be drawn from this study as a lot more research is needed in this area. Also, there is a huge difference between animal study and human exposure to pathogens. It is better to speak to your doctor before trying intermittent fasting for reducing the symptoms of food poisoning.
Other benefits of Intermittent fasting other than weight loss
Weight loss isn’t just the only benefit of intermittent fasting, this eating pattern can help you in more than one way.
It changes the function of hormonesDuring the fasting phase, several things happen in your body. First of all the hormone level changes to make the stored food more accessible for producing energy and cell repair. The insulin level drops significantly and the body starts to remove waste material from cells.
It can reduce inflammation in the bodyAgeing and chronic disease are all caused due to oxidative stress. The free radicals present in the body react with other important molecules, such as protein and DNA, and damage them. This eating pattern enhances the body’s resistance to oxidative stress.
It is good for heart healthIntermittent fasting has also proven to be beneficial in cutting down the risk of heart disease. It can help to improve blood sugar levels, blood pressure, blood triglycerides, all of which contribute to heart diseases.
It can benefit your brainIntermittent fasting improves various metabolic features known to improve brain health. Studies suggest that it may increase the growth of new nerve cells and reduce the risk of stroke.

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