Ancient wisdom for modern times.
In recent years, intermittent fasting has surged in popularity as a health trend, captivating the attention of fitness enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, and researchers alike. But what many may not realise is that the roots of intermittent fasting extend deep into ancient history, finding resonance in religious and spiritual practices of old, including those of ancient Chinese monks.
The Historical Tapestry of Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting, or controlled periods of abstaining from food, is not a novel concept. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations where fasting was intertwined with cultural, religious, and health practices.
Religious fasting is practised by people of all faiths, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, as well as Hinduism, Judaism, and Taoism. For more info read this study
Among these, ancient Chinese monks notably incorporated fasting into their lifestyles as a means of spiritual devotion and physical well-being.
The Natural Rhythm of Fasting
Interestingly, in ancient times, regular periods without food occurred naturally due to factors like seasonal fluctuations in food availability as well as times of war, plague and environmental changes. This natural rhythm allowed the body to adapt to periods of scarcity without the need for structured fasting regimes.
Intermittent Fasting in the Modern Era
Fast forward to the present day, and intermittent fasting has undergone a resurgence, propelled by scientific research highlighting its potential health benefits. From weight management to improved metabolic health and longevity, the allure of intermittent fasting has captivated the mainstream. It can be a useful technique to try, now that we have access to all different types of foods any time of the day or night or season. In our part of the world at the moment, We fortunately don’t fall prey to famine caused by war or environmental changes and so we’ve brought in these constraints artificially which can be super helpful.
A Word of Caution: Understanding the Female Body
However, amidst the fervour surrounding intermittent fasting, it’s crucial to acknowledge that its suitability may vary based on individual factors.. From a Chinese medicine perspective, women, in particular, need to exercise caution when embarking on intermittent fasting journeys.
The Menstrual Cycle and Fasting
For women, timing is key. Intermittent fasting may be safest and most beneficial when aligned with specific phases of the menstrual cycle, typically from day 3 to day 15. This precaution is rooted in the delicate interplay of hormones, particularly progesterone.
Protecting Progesterone Levels
Progesterone, a crucial hormone for reproductive health, can be adversely impacted by stress, including the stress induced by fasting. By limiting fasting to specific times in the menstrual cycle, women can help safeguard progesterone production and overall hormonal balance, which can help improve symptoms pre-period as well as help to hold an embryo in its place.
Planning for Pregnancy
Furthermore, for women planning to conceive, it’s imperative to approach intermittent fasting with caution. In the months leading up to conception, avoiding fasting can support the body in creating an optimal environment for pregnancy, including the development of a healthy uterine lining and the maturation of a beautiful egg.
Peri-menopause and Menopause
Once women are in this phase of life things change again. They can tolerate more intermittent fasting. If they’re still cycling here and there, the safest time to do it is still day 3 to 15. Once women have stopped having periods for 12 months and so they’re officially in menopause, then they can experiment with a lot more intermittent fasting as they’re not having monthly hormonal cycles anymore.
Embracing Balance and Awareness
In essence, while intermittent fasting holds promise as a tool for health and wellness, it’s essential to approach it with mindfulness, particularly concerning its impact on the female body. By understanding the historical context, respecting the body’s natural rhythms, and heeding individual needs, we can harness the potential benefits of intermittent fasting while safeguarding our well-being.
Incorporating intermittent fasting into one’s lifestyle can be a powerful ally on the journey to optimal health, but like any tool, it must be wielded wisely, with knowledge, balance, and respect for the intricacies of the human body.