Do the Benefits of Fasting Extend to the Gut Microbiome? New research confirms this potential mechanism
By Tina Kaczor, ND, FABNO, and Karolyn A. Gazella
November 2021 Vol. 13 Issue 11
https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2021-11/do-benefits-fasting-extend-gut-microbiomeThere were two (2) study groups of young/healthy (Age 18 to 30) and middle-aged/healthy that obesrved an overnight fast of 16 hours in observance of Ramadan. 57 fasting and 10 non-fasting between both groups.
Both groups experienced major changes in microbiome (gut environment and bacreria concentrations) similar to each other during the fasting period while the non-fasting group experiences no significant changes in composition of the microbioe. There was an observed increase in butyric producing bacteria which is associated with a reduced risk of cancer, improved inflammatory bowel disease, better mental health, reduced allergies and improved cardiorespiratory health.
The fasting group also experienced weitht loss and had improved liver enzyme activity.
Overall Fasting has its benefits to us all.