It has been researched that fasting is of high importance to human health. Of recent is the discovery that fasting can be helpful in fighting against cancer. This has been researched by different medical practitioners and the reasons behind these discoveries unrivaled.
Below are the importance of fasting to cancer treatment according to Medical News Today.
Boosts immune system
Fasting is very helpful in boosting the immune system. Fasting reduces damage to cells while also replenishing white blood cells and replacing damaged ones. White blood cells fight infection and destroy cells that may cause disease. When white blood cell levels drop as a result of chemotherapy, it affects the immune system negatively.
This means that the body has a harder time-fighting infections. The number of white blood cells in the body decreases during fasting. However, when the fasting cycle concludes and the body receives food, white blood cell levels increase.
Improves quality of life
During chemotherapy, fasting helps improve the quality of life. This is because fasting promotes cellular regeneration, protects blood against the harmful effects of chemotherapy and also reduces the impact of side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, and cramps.
In a research study, a 60-hour fasting period starting 36 hours before the start of chemotherapy treatment was done by cancer patients. The results show that participants fasting during chemotherapy reported higher tolerance to chemotherapy, fewer chemotherapy-related side effects, and higher energy levels when compared with those who did not fast.
Reverse chronic conditions
Conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes are risk factors for cancer. Both are linked to a higher risk of multiple types of cancer and lower survival rates. In a 2017 research, the effect of short-term fasting on type 2 diabetes was studied.
The participant in the study fasted for 24 hours two to three times per week. After 4 months of fasting, the participant had a 17.8 percent reduction in weight and an 11 percent reduction in waist size. Also, they no longer required insulin treatment after 2 months of this fasting pattern.
The medical information provided in this article is provided as an information resource only. This information does not create any patient-physician relationship and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.
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