Fasting, the age-old practice of abstaining from food for certain periods of time, is being proposed as a treatment for long Covid and post-vaccine injuries.
This method, championed by the Front Line COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC), aims to stimulate autophagy: a protein-recycling process that breaks down COVID-19 spike proteins implicated in symptom manifestation. Physicians recommend prolonged fasting, typically around 72 hours, to initiate this process. Multiple case reports indicate symptom improvements, often with associated decreases in anti-spike antibodies.
Apart from treating COVID-related conditions, fasting holds potential in addressing several other health issues. The practice can promote weight loss and assist in managing conditions like diabetes, as fasting reduces insulin levels and encourages the use of stored fat for energy.
Fasting is also compared to the ketogenic diet, which maintains low insulin levels and promotes the breakdown of fat. Research suggests that fasting may aid in achieving Type 2 diabetes remission, primarily through reduced meal frequency and consequential decreases in insulin release. Fasting also helps dismantle harmful visceral fat, associated with inflammation and insulin resistance.
In the realm of cognitive health, fasting has demonstrated potential benefits for Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that takes decades to develop. Some patients have reportedly reversed their symptoms after adhering to a 12- to 14-hour daily fast, alongside other lifestyle modifications. However, it’s unclear if the improvements resulted solely from fasting.
In terms of cancer prevention, particularly those related to diabetes and obesity, fasting could starve cancer cells by driving the body to use fats and produce ketones for energy. Lowering insulin levels through fasting could potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers, like breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer.
Despite the potential benefits, fasting isn’t without its side effects, including mood swings and hunger. It’s essential to note that not everyone responds positively to prolonged fasting, and muscle breakdown can occur. Doctors suggest it is vital to take precautionary measures such as medical consultations before fasting, especially for people with existing health conditions. It is also dangerous for pregnant women and children to fast.
