From the Guidelines
Fasting is not recommended as a universal approach to expedite the healing process, as it may delay healing by restricting necessary nutrients, especially in cases of acute injuries or post-surgical recovery. The relationship between fasting and healing is complex and varies significantly depending on the type of healing needed and individual health circumstances 1. While short-term fasting (16-48 hours) can trigger autophagy, a cellular cleaning process that removes damaged components and may support tissue repair, proper nutrition is essential for wound healing and recovery from illness or surgery 1. The body needs adequate protein, vitamins (especially A, C, E), and minerals like zinc for tissue repair and immune function.
Some studies suggest that fasting can be beneficial in certain contexts, such as reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular markers 1. However, these benefits may not outweigh the potential risks of malnutrition and delayed healing, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with existing health conditions 1.
In the context of surgery, nutritional therapy is crucial to support healing and recovery, and fasting may not be the best approach 1. The ESPEN guidelines recommend avoiding long periods of preoperative fasting and re-establishing oral feeding as early as possible after surgery 1.
Overall, while fasting may have some potential benefits, it is not a recommended approach to expedite the healing process, and individualized nutritional advice should be sought from a healthcare provider, taking into account the specific needs and circumstances of each patient 1.
Key considerations for fasting and healing include:
- Maintaining hydration
- Consulting with a healthcare provider, especially for those with existing health conditions, the elderly, or anyone recovering from significant illness or injury
- Ensuring adequate nutrition, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, to support tissue repair and immune function
- Avoiding long periods of fasting, especially in cases of acute injuries or post-surgical recovery
- Considering intermittent fasting approaches as a potential middle ground, while still allowing nutritional intake during eating windows 1.
From the Research
Fasting and Healing Process
- Fasting has been shown to have various health benefits, including reducing oxidative damage and inflammation, increasing energy metabolism, and boosting cellular protection 2, 3, 4.
- Studies have found that fasting can be beneficial in the treatment of certain diseases, such as rheumatic diseases, chronic pain syndromes, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome 3.
- Fasting has also been found to have potential health-promoting effects, including deceleration or prevention of most chronic degenerative and chronic inflammatory diseases 3, 5.
- The mechanisms of fasting point to its potential health-promoting effects, including fasting-induced neuroendocrine activation and hormetic stress response, increased production of neurotrophic factors, reduced mitochondrial oxidative stress, and promotion of autophagy 3, 4.
Clinical Applications of Fasting
- Fasting therapy might contribute to the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases and should be further evaluated in controlled clinical trials and observational studies 3.
- Caloric restriction and intermittent fasting have been found to have molecular effects that can lead to increased life- and healthspan in model organisms and ameliorate various diseases 5.
- Fasting has been found to have potential clinical applications, including reducing obesity, hypertension, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as improving cognition and increasing healthy life span 4, 6.
- Different protocols of fasting, including intermittent fasting and long-term fasting, can be used therapeutically, but their effects and potential side effects need to be carefully considered 5, 6.