What is water fasting, 19 year old girl died

March 25,Kathmandu.A 19-year-old girl from Kannur district of Kerala was influenced by an online portal and fasted to lose weight. She was doing water fasting. She did not eat properly for almost a year. Due to this, she developed the eating disorder anorexia nervosa. Due to this, her body became very weak and many organs inside the body also got damaged. Therefore, despite treatment in the hospital, she died.

Fasting is a beautiful process for weight loss, which has been adopted by people across the world since ancient times. If fasting is done properly, then along with weight control, self-discipline comes and mental peace is also obtained.

However, getting influenced by some online portal or watching a social media video and doing methods like water fasting for a long time can put you at risk.

What is water fasting?

Water fasting is a special type of fasting in which a person does not eat any kind of food, only drinks water. People adopt it to lose weight, detox the body or to deal with any health problem. However, some people also follow it for spiritual or religious reasons.

Usually it is recommended to do this for 24 to 72 hours. It is important to consult a doctor before water fasting for longer than this because this can weaken the body.

Water fasting causes autophagy

During water fasting, food is completely discarded. This gives birth to a special process in our body, which is called 'autophagy'. Due to this process, the healthiest cells remain in the body and we become completely healthy. This process is also used in the treatment of serious diseases like cancer.

benefits of water fasting

Water fasting helps in detoxifying the body the most. All the organs related to digestion get a chance to rest. Apart from this, it is helpful in weight loss. If it is done properly, the body gets a chance for cell repair. Apart from this, it is also beneficial for heart health.

What is the correct way of water fasting?

Dr.  says that water fasting means that only water can be drunk during the fast. During this time, you cannot eat or drink anything that gives energy. If it is done correctly, it can be very beneficial. Whereas, if done incorrectly, it can also cause many health problems. Therefore, before water fasting, definitely take these precautions-

1. Prepare before fasting

Reduce your food intake gradually: Avoid eating heavy or oily foods before starting the fast. Eat a light diet.

Stay hydrated: Keep track of whether you are drinking enough water a day or two before you start fasting, to avoid dehydration.

Be mentally prepared: Prepare yourself mentally before long fasting so that you do not feel weak.

2. Choose the right time

Start with a short fast: If you are doing water fasting for the first time, then do it for 12-24 hours only. Later you can gradually increase it to 48-72 hours.

Consult a doctor: It is important to consult a doctor before fasting for more than 72 hours.

Choose a less busy day: Choose a day for water fasting when the body does not need a lot of energy. A holiday is a good option.

3. Keep these things in mind while fasting

Drink enough water: Drink 2-3 liters of water throughout the day to keep the body hydrated.

Don't drink too much water: Drinking too much water can cause electrolyte imbalance in the body.

Rest: Avoid strenuous work and exercise while fasting so that the body retains energy.

Pay attention to your body's signals: break your fast if you feel weak, dizzy, or extremely tired.

4. The right way to end fasting

Start with a light diet: While breaking the fast, include light and easy to digest foods like fruits, soup, coconut water or oatmeal in your diet.

Avoid eating heavy food suddenly: Eating very fried, spicy or heavy food suddenly after fasting can cause digestive problems. Avoid this.

Slowly return to regular diet: After fasting, eat light and balanced meals for at least the next 1-2 days.

Common questions and answers related to water fasting

Who should not do water fasting?

Water fasting is not safe for everyone. It can cause great harm to some people. Therefore, these people should avoid water fasting-

How much water can one drink daily during water fasting?

Generally, it is considered right to drink 2-3 liters of water throughout the day. Drinking more water than required can cause electrolyte imbalance, which can cause weakness.

Can I exercise while water fasting? 

During this time, light exercises like yoga or stretching can be done. However, intense exercises should be avoided as the body may lack energy during fasting.

Is it okay to do water fasting repeatedly?

 Yes, but for this it is necessary to adopt a balanced and correct method.