The hidden benefits of fasting...

More Than Skipping Meals

Fasting has been part of Christian life since the earliest centuries. Jesus Himself said, “When you fast…” (Matthew 6:16), showing it was expected, not optional. Early believers fasted to humble themselves before God, sharpen prayer, and prepare for holy seasons.

What Science Shows

Today, medical research reveals that fasting does more than help the soul — it helps the body. Studies show intermittent fasting can:

• Improve insulin sensitivity, helping regulate blood sugar

• Trigger autophagy, the body’s natural process of cleaning out damaged cells

• Lower inflammation, linked to reduced risk of chronic disease

• Boost mental clarity by supporting brain cell health

Harvard Medical School has published findings showing that fasting reduces oxidative stress and promotes healthier aging.

How to Try It Safely

• Start small: Skip one meal a week and dedicate that time to prayer.

• Hydrate: Drink water during the fast to support your body.

• Pray with purpose: Use hunger pangs as reminders to seek God.

Why It Matters

Fasting isn’t about dieting. It’s about devotion. The physical benefits are real, but the spiritual benefits are greater. By aligning body and spirit through fasting, you find a rhythm of health and holiness working together.