Fasting – When the body is finally allowed to listen again

Introduction

Fasting is not a diet – it is a dialogue between body, mind, and cells.
And sometimes, it is the most honest conversation you can have with yourself.

Many people associate fasting with deprivation or discipline.
Yet biologically, fasting means exactly the opposite: renewal, relief, regeneration.
Those who fast activate their self-healing powers and give their cells time to recover.

What really happens during fasting

As soon as you go without food for a while, your body switches to an ancient survival program:

• The cells start their internal repair mechanisms (autophagy).

• The liver regenerates.

• The immune system is modulated.

• Inflammation decreases.

• The gut microbiome – our inner ecosystem – gets to breathe.

Studies show that intermittent fasting (e.g., 16:8)
→ improves insulin sensitivity,
→ reduces inflammation
→ and stabilizes the metabolism.

The result: fewer cravings, a clearer mind, more energy.
But – fasting is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Which forms of fasting make sense

Intermittent fasting (16:8)

You eat within an 8-hour window and fast for 16 hours.
Suitable for everyday life and well-researched scientifically.

Tip: Start gently. Skipping one meal is often enough to activate the processes.

Time-restricted fasting (5:2)

Eat normally for five days, severely restricted for two days (500–600 kcal).
Ideal for structured people who prefer fixed routines.

Water or therapeutic fasting

Only water, herbal tea, or broth – therapeutically useful for certain metabolic or inflammatory diseases.
Perform only under medical supervision.

Tip:
Herbal teas like sage, rosemary, or nettle support the liver and detoxification.
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When you should be careful

Fasting changes your biochemistry – that is both its power and its risk.
People with diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or those on psychiatric medication should only fast under medical supervision.

Because: insulin, blood pressure, and electrolytes shift significantly during fasting.
Fasting is not a competition, but a reset.

How to fast optimally

• Start slowly: Your body needs time to adapt.

• Drink plenty: Preferably still water or herbal tea.

• Supplement minerals: Magnesium, potassium, and zinc support cell regeneration.

• Stay calm: Stress sabotages the positive effects of fasting.

Tip:
A glass of warm water with lemon juice in the morning activates the liver and stabilizes the acid-base balance.

Fasting – an ancient medicine

Hippocrates already knew:

"When you are sick, nourish yourself; when you are healthy, fast."

In ancient Greece, fasting was considered a cleansing for body and soul.
Today, studies confirm what was intuitively understood back then:
Fasting is the oldest form of biological medicine.

Fasting as a return to inner order

Fasting does not mean taking something away – it means letting go of the superfluous.
It is a return to simplicity, an invitation to the body to listen.

You give your cells space to communicate and your mind an opportunity to clear.
Health is not created through "more" – but through conscious less.

Sources

• Stange, R. & Michalsen, A. (2015): Fasten und Ernährung bei rheumatischen Gelenkerkrankungen (Fasting and Nutrition for Rheumatic Joint Diseases).

• Berger, B. (2022): Fasten bei Tumorerkrankungen – ist das ratsam? (Fasting with Tumor Diseases – Is It Advisable?)

• Somburg, O. (2021): Schweigen und Fasten, Dankbarkeit und Demut: Wege zur psychischen Gesundheit (Silence and Fasting, Gratitude and Humility: Paths to Mental Health).

• Siedenburg, J. (2015): Medikamente und Fasten – was müssen Ärzte beachten? (Medication and Fasting – What Should Doctors Consider?)

• DMW (2024): Essen während der Nachtschicht beeinflusst Insulinsensitivität (Eating During Night Shifts Affects Insulin Sensitivity).

Recommendation: Gentle companions for your fasting period

Our Anthos herbal teas made from Mediterranean organic herbs naturally support you during detoxification and regeneration.
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Our products are intended for aromatherapy and culinary use. Traditional uses do not replace medical advice. The information provided here describes traditional applications, is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. If you have health concerns, please consult your doctor.