.svg.avif)
🧬 What is prolonged fasting and why it attracts the attention of researchers
Intermittent fasting is already popular for weight loss, but researchers from University of Southern California (USC)They discovered something even more amazing:
👉 during a prolonged fasting 72 hoursThe body doesn't just burn fat, it also burns fat. regenerates the immune system.
In the study led by Drs. Valter Longo, it has been observed that when the body does not receive food for several days, it goes into a “conservation” mode, destroying old, damaged or ineffective cells — including white blood cells.
Then, on the return of nutrition, hematopoietic stem cells(those that create new immune cells) are reactivated, essentially rebuilding an entirely new army of internal defenders.
📖 Source:
University of Southern California -- Fasting triggers stem cell regeneration
⚙️ How the “reset” of immunity works
In short, a 72h fast triggers 3 main mechanisms:
- 🧹 Autophagy— the body removes damaged cells, including worn immune cells.
- 🔄 Activation of stem cells— in the absence of glucose and protein, IGF-1/PKA signaling decreases, which stimulates cell regeneration.
- 🌱 Repopulating the immune system— after re-feeding, stem cells produce new, effective leukocytes with enhanced immune function.
📚 In an article published in Cell Stem Cell, researchers have confirmed that this process is noticeable even in elderly people or in patients who have undergone chemotherapy.
👉 The complete study (Cell Stem Cell Journal)
💪 Observed benefits
- 🔄 Regeneration of the immune system— by the formation of new, young leukocytes.
- 🧠 Reduction of chronic inflammation— decrease in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- 🦠 Improving resistance to infectionsThe immune system becomes more “clean” and efficient.
- 💊 Support in Oncological Treatments— in patients who fasted before chemotherapy, better protection of the immune system was observed.
⚠️ Important to remember
A 72h post not recommended to anyone.
❗ Avoid it if:
- have diabetes, hormonal disorders or chronic diseases;
- you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking constant medication;
- you are in convalescence or have a weight below the limit.
If you want to try it, do it under the supervision of a doctorand constantly moisturize (plain water, teas without sugar, natural electrolytes).
🌿 Conclusion
72-hour fasting isn't an extreme fad — it's a scientifically validated way to “fix” your immune system.
Your body knows how to regenerate itself — all you have to do sometimes is leave him alone for a little while.
📚 Sources:
No. People with chronic conditions, diabetes, tension problems or below normal weight should avoid prolonged fasting.
Not recommended. The natural process of autophagy and regeneration is negatively influenced by the intake of amino acids or calories.
Specialists recommend a maximum of once every 2—3 months, depending on lifestyle and general health.
.svg)
