Purpose of This Article

I have previously explored the multifaceted benefits of fasting, emphasizing its role in promoting ketosis for cellular, mitochondrial, metabolic, immune, endocrine, neurological, and mental well-being, as well as its anti-inflammatory properties. In a recent piece, I posed the question: "What if we could leverage fasting as a therapeutic tool?" This sparked considerable interest among my readers.

Here, I aim to summarize a significant study published in the BMJ, titled “Association of Periodic Fasting with Lower Severity of COVID-19 Outcomes in the SARS-CoV-2 Prevaccine Era: An Observational Cohort from the INSPIRE Registry.” Additionally, I will share related studies and my personal experiences with COVID-19 to underscore the potential of fasting in enhancing immune health and managing infectious diseases.

Study Overview

The research featured in BMJ’s Nutrition, Prevention, and Health Journal analyzed the relationship between periodic fasting and the severity of COVID-19, as well as initial infections from SARS-CoV-2. Researchers proposed that "intermittent fasting may enhance host defense mechanisms while modulating inflammatory responses." They found that less frequent fasting was linked to improved survival rates and reduced risks associated with COVID-19 comorbidities.

Conducted in a secondary care facility in Salt Lake City, Utah, the study involved patients from the INSPIRE registry between 2013 and 2020, tracking COVID-19 positive tests from March 2020 to February 2021. Approximately 1,500 participants were queried about their fasting habits over their lifetimes. The findings revealed that hospitalization or mortality rates were significantly lower in individuals who practiced routine fasting—11% among fasters compared to 28.8% among non-fasters.

In conclusion, the researchers stated, “fasting may be a supportive therapy to vaccination by enhancing immune function and controlling hyperinflammation during and beyond the pandemic.”

Personal Reflections on Fasting During COVID Infection

Earlier this year, I contracted COVID-19, having been exposed by family members. While all symptoms presented, my experience was notably milder than that of my younger relatives. Thankfully, we were all fully vaccinated, but I recall a severe episode my wife endured after her first vaccination, which required hospitalization. Remarkably, when I contracted the virus, I recovered within six days, aided by my fasting practices.

I have practiced intermittent fasting for decades, typically adhering to a one-meal-a-day routine, which has conferred numerous health benefits, including bolstering my immune system. During my illness, I increased my fasting window from 22 hours to 46 hours, yielding positive results. One family member, inspired by my experience, also chose to fast and recovered more swiftly than others who did not.

Key Mechanisms of Fasting in Virus Protection

Fasting induces substantial biochemical transformations in the body, such as reduced insulin levels, increased growth hormone, optimized neurotransmitter function, enhanced autophagy, and improved immunity. Based on my experiences and research, the primary advantage of fasting is its ability to lower inflammation via the ketosis process.

In a 2014 article in Cell Metabolism, it was noted that fasting could mitigate oxidative damage and inflammation, optimize energy metabolism, and enhance cellular protection. Chronic fasting, particularly in lower organisms, has been shown to extend lifespan by reprogramming metabolic pathways. In rodents, intermittent fasting protects against various diseases, while in humans, it has been linked to decreased obesity, hypertension, and autoimmune disorders.

Fasting effectively lowers glucose and protein levels in the bloodstream, creating an anti-inflammatory environment. A 2019 study highlighted that caloric restriction positively influences inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, yet the underlying mechanisms remain inadequately understood.

During fasting, the body shifts from glucose to ketones for energy, with ketone bodies like BHB (?-Hydroxybutyrate) exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. Studies dating back nearly three decades have confirmed that fasting can increase linoleic and arachidonic acids in liver triglycerides, suggesting potential antiviral benefits.

A recent 2022 study in Nature explored the antiviral properties of fatty acids, revealing that linoleic acid can bind to SARS-CoV-2 RdRp and inhibit the replication of human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2.

In 2020, a review highlighted the immunomodulatory potential of intermittent fasting as a promising strategy for COVID-19 prevention. The researchers noted that fasting could prime the immune system and activate autophagy, enhancing overall immunity. They also recommended integrating other health-promoting practices, such as exercise and meditation, to maximize immune function.

Concluding Thoughts

Fasting has been employed as a therapeutic method for centuries across various cultures and religions. Due to its numerous benefits, scientific interest in understanding the mechanisms of fasting has grown substantially.

Current studies reveal that fasting can lead to significant biochemical changes, including:

• Reduced oxidative stress
• Diminished inflammation
• Initiation of autophagy
• Strengthening of the immune response
• Mobilization of stem cells
• Hormonal and neurotransmitter balance
• Marked increases in growth hormone
• Lowered glucose and protein levels
• Decreased insulin secretion
• Enhanced gut microbiota

If these benefits can be harnessed effectively, fasting could become a powerful tool in combating infectious diseases. Unlike pharmaceuticals, it incurs no cost and is associated with fewer side effects.

Beyond viral conditions, fasting may also improve metabolic syndrome, type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative disorders. I have encapsulated these insights in my earlier piece, "What If We Can Package Fasting as a Therapeutic Tool."

While fasting can be relatively straightforward for some, others may find it challenging until they adapt to utilizing stored fat for energy. Achieving metabolic flexibility can make fasting enjoyable and effective as a therapeutic strategy.

However, fasting may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with existing health conditions, who should seek guidance from healthcare professionals.

Thank you for engaging with my perspectives. I hope to inspire a healthy and fulfilling life.

If you are new to my work and find this article insightful, I invite you to explore my holistic health and well-being narratives, which reflect my extensive research and personal experiences.

Exploring Fasting and Health Improvement

I delve into various hormones and neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, and aim to raise awareness of the causes and risk factors of widespread diseases that significantly impact health and well-being.

For those interested in my holistic health findings, I have compiled several articles to facilitate easy access to important information regarding various health conditions.

The first video, "Always Fast During an Infection," discusses the benefits of fasting during viral illnesses and how it can support the immune system.

The second video, "Intermittent Fasting & STDs (Sexually Transmitted Disease) – Dr. Berg On Alternate Day Fasting," explores the implications of fasting in managing various health conditions, including infections.

Thank you for your interest in my work. I look forward to sharing more insights and experiences in the future.