The Power of Monkfast: My Personal Journey to 36-Hour Fasting

In a previous blog post, I wrote about intermittent fasting and my introduction to monkfast. Now, I'd like to share my recent experiences, successfully fasting for 36 hours twice and strengthening my belief that I can also fast for 48 hours. But before I delve into my personal journey, let's explore the science behind fasting and why it can be so beneficial for our health.

The Motivation Behind Fasting: Explaining the Benefits of Monkfast

Fasting, in various forms such as intermittent fasting or longer periods of abstinence like with monkfast, has captured the attention of both scientists and health enthusiasts due to its potential health benefits. Here are some reasons why fasting can be beneficial, supported by scientific research:

1. Weight loss and fat loss: Fasting can help reduce calorie intake, leading to weight loss. Additionally, fasting can put the body into a state of ketosis, where fat is burned for energy instead of carbohydrates, contributing to fat loss.
2. Improved insulin sensitivity: Fasting can improve insulin sensitivity, meaning cells can more efficiently uptake glucose from the blood. This can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent insulin resistance, thereby reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
3. Extended lifespan: Animal studies have shown that fasting may contribute to a longer lifespan. By increasing the production of certain proteins and enzymes associated with longevity, fasting may provide protection against aging and age-related diseases.
4. Enhanced brain health: Fasting can have neuroprotective effects, promoting brain health and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. This is attributed to the increased production of certain proteins that protect brain cells from damage and inflammation.
5. Anti-inflammatory effects: Fasting can reduce inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for overall health. Chronic inflammation is associated with an increased risk of various diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.

It's important to note that while there is promising research on the benefits of fasting, more studies are still needed to understand the long-term effects and optimal fasting methods for different individuals. Before starting a fast, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have health issues or are taking medications.

The Theory Behind Ketosis

Ketosis is a metabolic state in which the body breaks down fats into ketones and uses them as the primary energy source instead of glucose. This process occurs when glycogen stores in the liver are depleted, typically after a period of fasting or a very low-carbohydrate diet. Here's the theory behind ketosis and why it can be beneficial for our health:

1. Fat breakdown: When carbohydrate intake is low, the body switches to burning fat for energy. Fats are broken down into fatty acids and then into ketones in the liver. These ketones can be used by the body as an energy source, including the brain, which normally relies on glucose.
2. Increased fat burning: Ketosis promotes increased fat burning, which can be beneficial for weight loss and fat loss. Because the body derives its energy from fats rather than carbohydrates, stored fats are used as fuel, leading to a decrease in body fat percentage.
3. Lowered insulin levels: Ketones have the potential to lower insulin levels, which can be beneficial for people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. Low insulin levels also promote increased fat burning and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
4. Improved mental clarity: Many people report improved mental clarity and focus during ketosis. This is attributed to the constant supply of energy to the brain by ketones, as opposed to the peaks and valleys caused by fluctuations in blood sugar levels on a carbohydrate-rich diet.
5. Potential health benefits: In addition to weight loss, ketosis may also be associated with other health benefits, including improved cholesterol levels, lowered blood pressure, reduced inflammation, and a decreased risk of certain diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

While ketosis may offer benefits for many people, it's important to note (similar to fasting) that it's not suitable for everyone, and it's advisable to seek advice from a healthcare provider before embarking on a low-carbohydrate diet, especially if you have health issues or are taking medications.

My Monkfast Journey: Victories and Challenges

Two weeks ago, I decided to try monkfast, and I succeeded! I fasted for 36 hours, drinking plenty of water and tea. The first 18 hours went smoothly as I am accustomed to intermittent fasting, and I often don't eat until noon. However, around 2 p.m., I experienced a slight dip and began to feel hungry. Fortunately, I was able to suppress this feeling by drinking. In previous attempts with monkfast, the most challenging moment for me was when I had to feed my children. However, this time, I had prepared their meals the day before, which only needed to be reheated. To make it even easier for myself, I asked my husband to help our youngest son with his meal. He was also fasting, albeit with less difficulty. However, the smell of food remained a challenge and triggered hunger again. While showering our two youngest children, I also felt a bit weaker and lightheaded. I also noticed that I became somewhat irritable, albeit much less than during my previous attempts. After putting the two youngest to bed and asking the older two to watch over them, my husband and I went for a long walk with the dog, at a leisurely pace. This helped distract my mind. Throughout the evening, I noticed that I alternated between feeling hot and cold, which repeated itself at night. As a result, I didn't sleep very well and kept waking up slightly.

The next day, I had eggs for breakfast. I noticed that I felt satiated more quickly than usual and ate smaller portions throughout the day. All in all, my first experience with monkfast went well, so much so that I decided to fast for 36 hours again a week later. I found fasting easier when I was working. Occasionally, I felt hungry, but it subsided with enough water. During work, I found that I could concentrate better and was more alert. This time, I wasn't tired or irritable in the evening, perhaps because my body was more accustomed to it? Now that I've successfully fasted for 36 hours twice, I'm convinced that I can also do 48 hours!

Would You Dare?

After sharing my personal journey, I challenge you to consider whether fasting is right for you! Learn more about the potential benefits and be inspired to take on the challenge yourself and let me know how it goes.