Khaberni - After two weeks of continuous fasting during Ramadan, many notice vague changes in their health: a sense of vitality, and sometimes a feeling of lightness.
But what happens internally is more complex; the body may actually begin detoxification processes, but not as some believe, and not in a magical way.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Jamal, a gastroenterology consultant at Menoufia University, explained to "Al Ain News," that the body possesses natural systems for detoxification, the most important of which are the liver, kidneys, digestive system, and skin.
He points out that fasting does not create a new cleaning system, but it improves the efficiency of existing organs and reduces the burden on them.
A study published in the "Journal of Translational Medicine" titled "Physiological Effects of Fasting on Detoxification" supports Al-Jamal's points, showing that fasting increases the activity of certain liver enzymes responsible for detoxification and enhances the role of kidneys in filtering waste.
Al-Jamal adds that "after two weeks of regular fasting, these systems begin to work more efficiently, but this requires support from fluids and healthy nutrition at Iftar and Suhoor."
An important part of what is known as "detoxification" is linked to the breakdown of fats stored in the body.
A study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" titled "Metabolic Adaptations to Intermittent Fasting," shows that the body begins to convert stored fat into energy after 10–14 hours of abstaining from food.
Al-Jamal says: "This process leads to the release of some compounds stored in the fat, such as some cellular waste or lipid-soluble chemicals, which are later eliminated through the liver and kidneys, thus, fasting does not create a new detoxification, but it motivates the body to recycle its internal compounds more effectively."
A study published in "Frontiers in Nutrition" titled "Effect of Fasting on Liver and Kidney Functions" indicates that adhering to fasting for two weeks increases the liver's ability to detoxify and enhances urine secretion, thus supporting the waste elimination process.
Al-Jamal points out that these effects become more evident when adhering to good hydration, and avoiding fatty and fried foods at Iftar.
Despite these benefits, Al-Jamal warns of the idea that fasting automatically or rapidly washes away toxins. According to a study published in "Nutrition Reviews" titled "Fasting and Detoxification: A Review," it has been affirmed that fasting helps the body improve the efficiency of internal organs, but it is not a substitute for natural liver and kidneys. The detoxifying effect becomes tangible when adhering to regular fasting, balanced nutrition, and adequate hydration.
Al-Jamal explains: "Toxins do not disappear overnight, but fasting for two weeks stimulates the body to be more effective in eliminating internal waste."
