Fast and rejuvenation : how fasting stimulates cell renewal

Fasting is not only an ancient practice related to spirituality or the weight loss. Numerous scientific studies show that it also plays a key role in the cellular rejuvenation and longevity. Through biological mechanisms powerful as the autophagy and cell regeneration, fasting could slow down the effects of aging and promote younger looking skin, body more energetic and better overall health.

But how exactly does this process ? What are the types of fasting more effective to boost the rejuvenation ?

1. The link between fasting and rejuvenation

1.1. Autophagy : a cleaning powerful cell

Autophagy is a natural process by which cells eliminate their damaged components and recycle internal waste. This phenomenon, discovered by the scientist Yoshinori Ohsumi (Nobel Prize in medicine in 2016), is triggered when the body is in a fasting state.

🔹 Why is it important for rejuvenation ?

Eliminate the aging cells and dysfunctional.
Promotes the renewal of tissues, including the skin.
Protects against some age-related diseases (neurodegeneration, cancers…).

In other words, the more autophagy is activated regularly, the more our body to function effectively and keep a youthful appearance.

1.2. The production of growth hormone

Fasting also stimulates the production of growth hormone (HGH), which plays a key role in the maintenance of muscle mass, bone density and elasticity of the skin.

✅ Fasting for 24 hours can multiply by 5 the secretion of HGH.
✅ This hormone promotes cell regeneration and fights against the loss of tonicity of the skin.

1.3. The reduction of oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is a major cause of aging. It is caused by a buildup of free radicals that damage our cells and accelerate the appearance of wrinkles, fatigue, and degenerative diseases.

💡 The fasting activates antioxidant enzymes that reduce this oxidation, thus helping the body to protect against premature aging.

2. What types of fast are most effective for rejuvenation ?

All the types of fasting are not created equal in terms of rejuvenation. Here are the ones that provide the best results :

2.1. Intermittent fasting (16/8, 18/6, 20/4)

Intermittent fasting involves alternating periods of fasting and feeding on a daily basis.

✔ 16/8 : 16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of window food.
✔ 18/6 : 18 hours of fasting, a 6 hour window food.
✔ 20/4 : 20 hours of fasting, a 4 hour window for food.

💡 Why it is effective ?

Active autophagy after 12 to 14 hours of fasting.
Reduces inflammation and improves insulin sensitivity.
Increases the production of collagen, essential for skin youthful and firm.

2.2. Prolonged fasting (24 hours to 72 hours)

A fast longer allows you to activate the mechanisms of the deeper cellular regeneration.

🔹 Fasting of 24 hours : Already effective to boost HGH and autophagy.
🔹 Fasting for 48 hours : Stimulates the regeneration of immune cells.
🔹 Fasting for 72 hours : Allows a complete regeneration of the immune system and active markers of rejuvenation.

💡 To know : This type of fasting should be framed and practiced occasionally to avoid deficiencies or excessive fatigue.

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2.3. Fasting mimetic

It is a reduced calorie diet that mimics the effects of fasting while allowing a minimum intake of nutrients.

✅ It reduces inflammation and stimulates the rejuvenation process without the disadvantages of a strict fast.
✅ It emphasizes foods that are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants (avocado, nuts, green leafy vegetables, olive oil…).

3. The benefits visible in the fast aging

Numerous studies and testimonials show that fasting leads to tangible impact on the youth and longevity :

3.1. A skin younger and glowing

Fasting stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, making the skin more firm and bright. It also reduces the inflammation of the skin, improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

3.2. A brain more sharp and durable

Fasting increases the production of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a protein essential for the storage and regeneration of neurons. It helps to prevent the cognitive decline related to age.

3.3. A better metabolic health and immune

Reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Strengthening the immune system thanks to the renewal of the white blood cells.
Rebalancing hormone promoting energy and vitality.

4. How to incorporate fasting in his daily life ?

🔹 Start gradually : If you are a beginner, try the intermittent fasting 12/12 before you increase the duration.
🔹 Drink plenty of water : stay hydrated with water, tea or broth to avoid side effects.
🔹 Listen to your body : fasting must be adapted to your lifestyle and to your state of health.

💡 To avoid : A fasting too long or too often without supervision, especially if you have pre-existing health problems.

Conclusion

The fast and the rejuvenation are closely related through biological mechanisms powerful asautophagy, cell regeneration, and hormonal stimulation. Through the intermittent fasting, prolonged or mimetic, this practice naturally helps slow down the effects of aging and improve our overall well-being.