Did you know that just four hours without eating can start causing some big changes in your body? A viral YouTube video breaks down exactly what happens when you fast for a long time, but some experts are still a bit skeptical about it.
People fast for all sorts of reasons — some for religious practices, some to lose weight, and others to boost brain function. While it might sound tough or even unpleasant to some, many folks actually make fasting part of their daily or weekly routine.
Experts say that if done right, fasting can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve how your body responds to insulin. But it’s not for everyone, so it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before you try it.
So, what happens during a 36-hour fast? According to the video from Wellness Wise:
After 4 hours, your body stops digesting food and starts breaking down stored energy to fuel your cells.
After 8 hours, blood sugar drops and your body begins using glycogen stored in the liver for energy.
At 12 hours, glucose is used up, so your liver starts turning fat into ketones, which your body uses as fuel.
After 16 hours, a process called autophagy kicks in — your cells clean out damaged parts and recycle what they can.
At 24 hours, your body is in full fat-burning mode, reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity.
After 30 hours, growth hormone levels spike, helping to preserve muscle and burn fat faster.
And at 36 hours, your body reaches peak autophagy — regenerating tissues and boosting metabolism.
That said, opinions about long-term fasting are mixed. Some researchers say there isn’t enough evidence to back all the health claims in humans, while others highlight benefits like protecting against chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Remember, everyone reacts differently to fasting. If you’re thinking of trying it, make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to keep it safe!