The cold hard truth about fasting...

More Than Just Skipping Meals

From the first century on, fasting has been a rhythm of Christian life. Jesus said, “When you fast…” (Matthew 6:16), showing that it was a normal part of discipleship. Early believers fasted not to punish the body, but to humble themselves before God and open space for prayer.

What Science Reveals

Modern research now confirms what the faithful practiced for centuries. Studies show that fasting can:

• Improve insulin sensitivity, helping balance blood sugar

• Trigger autophagy, the body’s way of clearing out damaged cells

• Lower inflammation, which is linked to heart disease and other chronic conditions

• Support brain health and improve focus by promoting growth factors in the nervous system

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health notes that fasting reduces oxidative stress and may even promote healthier aging.

How to Begin Safely

• Start small: Try skipping one meal a week and dedicating that time to prayer.

• Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the fast.

• Keep it spiritual: Use moments of hunger to pray, reflect on scripture, or intercede for others.

Why It Matters

Fasting is not a diet plan. It’s devotion. The physical benefits are real, but the deeper reward is spiritual clarity. By uniting body and spirit in fasting, you discover strength and peace that go far beyond the plate.