The Potential Benefits and Risks of Prolonged Fasting

Dr. Berg emphasizes the importance of understanding the benefits and risks of prolonged fasting. Individuals interested in starting prolonged fasting should be well-informed and supervised, especially if they have existing health conditions or concerns. 

The Potential Benefits of Prolonged Fasting 

1. Cellular Rejuvenation and Autophagy: Prolonged fasting triggers cellular cleanup processes, removing damaged cells and regenerating new ones. 

2. Supports Digestive Health: Fasting provides a physiological rest for the digestive system, potentially improving its function upon refeeding. 

3. Fights Inflammation: It helps reduce inflammation linked to chronic diseases. 

4. Improves Insulin Sensitivity: Lower risk of insulin resistance, which can help prevent diabetes. 

5. Heart Health: Linked to a lower risk of heart disease by improving various risk factors. 

6. Anti-Aging Effects: The autophagy triggered by fasting can have profound anti-aging effects. 

7. Mental Clarity and Cognitive Function: Some evidence suggests fasting can improve mental clarity and protect against neurodegenerative diseases. 

8. Weight Loss: Extended periods of fasting push the metabolism to burn stored body fat as a fuel source, supporting maintaining a healthy body weight. 

 Review the ‘6 Stages of Fasting’ video to understand the stages of potential benefits of prolonged fasting. 

 The Risks of Prolonged Fasting 

1. Prolonged Fasting Is Not Suitable for Everyone:  

(A) The following individuals MUST avoid prolonged fasting: 

1. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers 

2. Children under the age of 18  

3. Anyone who is already underweight and needs to gain weight. 

(B) Individuals with the following medical conditions must avoid prolonged fasting or be under consistent medical supervision: 

1. Diabetes 

2. Hypoglycemia 

3. Eating disorders 

4. Cardiovascular disease 

5. Kidney problems  

6. Any other medical condition. 

2. Potential Nutrient Deficiencies: Extended fasting without proper planning can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients. 

3. Medication Interactions: Certain medications, especially those for blood pressure or heart disease, may increase the risk of side effects such as sodium and potassium deficiencies during fasting. 

4. Requires Supervision for Those with Medical Conditions: If you have underlying health issues, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting prolonged fasting. 

 Always consult with your healthcare provider. 

If you want to try prolonged fasting, discussing the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider is essential. Although some healthcare providers may be unfamiliar with the benefits and only know about the potential risks, it's essential to listen to their concerns and provide them with resources to educate them about the benefits of fasting. If you and your healthcare provider agree that prolonged fasting is safe for your individual health, request nutrient testing before starting, such as a Nutrient Panel Blood Test, to ensure you have the necessary nutrient reserves to do a prolonged fast safely. 

Review “The 5 BIG Prolonged Fasting Mistakes: MUST WATCH” before consulting with your healthcare provider to understand more of the risk factors around prolonged fasting. 

This information is provided from Dr. Berg's Guidelines for Prolonged Fasting.docx.

Dr. Berg Nutritionals staff, including Dr. Berg Advisors, do not encourage prolonged fasting. We are not healthcare professionals equipped with the tests and facilities to perform the necessary monitoring during a prolonged fast, nor do we have an individual's medical health records. Dr. Berg Advisors provides this document based on Dr. Berg's education for informational purposes only to those already on a prolonged fast or independently choosing to do one.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a prolonged fast.  If you're considering prolonged fasting, discussing the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider is essential.