Happy Ganesh Chaturthi - Know The Unmatchable Health Benefits Of Fasting!

Ganesha Chaturthi is one of the most auspicious festivals, widely celebrated in India. Also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, the occasion marks the birth of the Hindu God of success and wisdom, Lord Ganesha. The festival is celebrated on the fourth day of the Hindu Bhadra month, usually between mid-August and mid-September.  Ganesha Chaturthi is the grandest festival celebrated particularly in the Western Indian state of Maharashtra, where people worship the elephant-headed Hindu God for ten days before immersing the idol on the day of Ananta Chaturdashi. 

During the ten-day festival, colourful pandals are set up across various locations and gigantic Ganapati idols are placed, which attract local crowd and visitors. On this auspicious day, people worship Lord Ganesha, the God of knowledge, prosperity and wisdom with complete faith and devotion. People usually start their day getting up early in the morning, taking a bath, changing into nice and clean clothes, and performing the rituals of the Ganapati puja. Devotees, who intend to offer their prayers, fast and refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol during this time. Some people even observe ‘nirjala vrat’ (go without drinking water) during the puja. 

Benefits of Fasting

There have been mixed opinions on the effects of fasting, as many people believe that going without food and water for hours or days can be harmful to the body. However, recent scientific studies have shown different results. 

Researchers suggest that fasting can actually benefit you in more than one way – it is good for your physical as well as spiritual well-being. 

Here is how fasting improves your physical health –

• Improves Blood Sugar Control and Lowers Insulin Sensitivity

Alternate day fasting and intermittent fasting help reduce blood glucose levels and lower insulin resistance.

• Helps to Fight Inflammation

Studies found that fasting reduces several inflammation markers and may help treat inflammatory conditions like multiple sclerosis.

• Improves Heart Health 

Fasting may help bring down triglyceride levels, cholesterol and blood pressure – factors that contribute to the risk of coronary heart disease. Thus, staying off food for a specific period may actually improve your heart health.

• Boosts Functioning of the Brain 

According to studies, fasting improves your brain’s ability to function – it increases the synthesis of nerve cells and helps keep neurodegenerative conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s at bay.

• Aids Weight Loss

Contrary to general belief, fasting boosts metabolism and help to preserve muscle tissues to reduce body fat and weight.

• Increases the Secretion of Growth Hormone

Fasting increases the level of secretion of the growth hormones, which is vital for your growth, weight loss, metabolism and muscle strength.

• Delays Ageing 

Several studies have stated that fasting could help delay the natural process of ageing and increase longevity. 

• May Help in Cancer Prevention

Some studies suggest that fasting may help prevent the development of cancerous tumours and increase the efficacy of chemotherapy.

Fasting has been practised from time immemorial and has been known for numerous health benefits, as stated above. However, the practice is not restricted to physical welfare alone; it has several spiritual benefits as well. Mindful fasting as a form of prayer can help you understand yourself better and lead to spiritual upliftment.