Does Fasting Lower Blood Pressure?
Fasting has been practiced for centuries for religious and spiritual purposes, but more recently, it has been gaining attention as a potential health intervention. Studies have found that fasting can help with weight loss, improve heart health, and even lower blood pressure. But does fasting actually lower blood pressure?
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. When your heart beats, it pumps blood, and the pressure of the blood against the artery walls is your blood pressure. If your blood pressure is too high, it can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health problems.
Does Fasting Lower Blood Pressure?
Studies have shown that fasting can indeed lower blood pressure in some individuals. A study from 2014 found that alternate-day fasting (eating every other day) was effective in lowering systolic blood pressure (the top number) by an average of 7.5 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) by an average of 5.5 mmHg. Another study from 2019 found that fasting for 16 hours a day could lead to a significant decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
What are the Benefits of Fasting?
In addition to potentially lowering your blood pressure, fasting has other health benefits. It can help you lose weight, improve your metabolic health, and reduce inflammation. It can also help you reset your metabolism and give your body a chance to rest and repair.
How Do I Start Fasting?
If you’re interested in trying fasting, it’s important to consult with your doctor first to make sure it’s the right choice for you. Once you’ve been cleared by your doctor, you can start with a short-term fast like a 16-hour fast. Then, you can gradually increase the length of your fasts as your body adjusts.
In conclusion, fasting can have a positive effect on blood pressure in some individuals. However, it’s important to speak with your doctor before beginning a fasting regimen to make sure it’s safe for you.
