Hour by Hour: What Happens in Your Body When You Intermittent Fasting?

When we fast, our body goes through a series of changes hour by hour. Here's a breakdown of what happens in the body during a fast:

First 0-6 hours of fasting:

• Shortly after your last meal, your body starts to use up the glucose (sugar) in your blood for energy.
• As glucose levels drop, the pancreas releases less insulin, a hormone that helps the body store and use glucose.
• As insulin levels drop, fat cells start to release stored fatty acids into the bloodstream, where they can be used for energy by the body's cells.
• The liver also starts to release stored glucose (in the form of glycogen) into the bloodstream to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

6-12 hours of fasting:

• By this point, the body has used up most of the glucose stored in the liver and muscles, and starts to rely more on fatty acids for energy.
• The body also starts to produce ketones, which are produced when the liver breaks down fatty acids. These ketones can be used by the body's cells for energy, especially in the brain, which can't use fatty acids for fuel directly.
• Hunger pangs and feelings of hunger may start to set in as the stomach empties and the body prepares for the next meal.

12-24 hours of fasting:

• The body continues to use ketones and fatty acids for energy, and insulin levels remain low.
• Growth hormone levels may start to increase, which can help the body break down fat cells and preserve muscle mass.
• The body may also start to recycle damaged cells and proteins through a process called autophagy, which can help improve cellular function and may have other health benefits.

24-48 hours of fasting:

• The body continues to burn fat for energy and increases production of ketones.
• The body may enter a deeper state of ketosis, which may help suppress hunger and increase mental clarity.
• The immune system may be activated, leading to potential health benefits like reduced inflammation.

48-72 hours of fasting:

• The body continues to burn fat for energy and produces high levels of ketones.
• Autophagy, a natural process of cellular cleanup and repair, may increase. This can help remove damaged cells and improve cellular function.
• The body may begin to break down muscle tissue for energy, leading to potential muscle loss.

Beyond 72 hours:

• The body continues to burn fat for energy and produce ketones.
• Autophagy continues to increase, potentially leading to improved cellular function and longevity.
• The risk of muscle loss increases as the body continues to break down muscle tissue for energy.

Conclusion:

It's important to note that fasting can have different effects on different individuals, and these changes may vary based on factors like age, sex, and overall health. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any type of fasting regimen. Additionally, it's important to listen to your body and break your fast if you experience any severe symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or fainting.