You likely feel good after fasting because your body is undergoing cellular processes that offer various physical and potentially mental benefits. When you fast, your body shifts its energy source, leading to beneficial changes.
How Fasting Impacts Your Body and Mood
When you fast, your body depletes its readily available glucose stores and begins to utilize alternative energy pathways. This metabolic shift can result in several positive effects:
- Cellular Cleansing (Autophagy): Without a constant influx of food, your cells initiate a cleaning process called autophagy, where they remove damaged components and recycle them.
- Metabolic Shift: According to the provided reference, "the body does not have its usual access to glucose, forcing the cells to resort to other means and materials to produce energy." This shift can lead to improved insulin sensitivity and fat burning.
- Hormonal Changes: Fasting can influence the levels of various hormones, including growth hormone (HGH) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which can positively affect mood and cognitive function.
- Reduced Inflammation: Some studies suggest fasting can decrease inflammation, which can contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
The Science Behind the "Fasting High"
The feeling of well-being after fasting can be attributed to the body's adaptive responses to the absence of food. These include:
- Ketogenesis: As glucose becomes scarce, your body starts producing ketones from stored fat, which can be used as an alternative fuel source, especially for the brain. Some people experience increased mental clarity and energy when their bodies are in ketosis.
- Increased Energy Production: The body becomes more efficient at energy production as cells adapt to using different fuel sources.
- Mental Clarity: For some individuals, the metabolic changes associated with fasting can lead to improved focus and mental clarity.
- Sense of Control: Completing a fast can provide a sense of accomplishment and control over one's health and habits, contributing to positive feelings.
