In an article written by Shari Roan entitled “Running on empty: the pros and cons of fasting” and published online in the Los Angeles Times on February 29, 2009 presented relevant issues pertinent to fasting as a way of losing weight. Roan initially disclosed that there have been some staggering and alarming information on the continually increasing trends of obesity in the American population. In response to the need to lose weight, it was indicated that fasting was seen as an alternative, or what was specifically termed as intermittent fasting. Citing various studies conducted by scientists and dieticians, it was thereby revealed that fasting has some benefits in terms of restricting calories, reducing risks of contracting illnesses, and even potentially extends a person’s lifespan.
Roan likewise identified counterarguments with regard to fasting’s negative impact. Citing the statement indicated by a registered dietitian in Burbank and an alleged spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, Ruth Frechman was quoted to state that “You're hungry, fatigued, irritable. Fasting is not very comfortable. People try to cut back one day and the next day they're starving and they overeat” . This argument was rebutted by researchers who disclosed that the body has a natural response to adjusting to fasting, seen to be a healthy and natural process.
Other research studies on the subject were noted to be undertaken but more conclusive findings need to be validated to confirm positive effects. There were studies conducted by the Salk Institute in La Jolla regarding the effect of fasting on memory function of older people; the University of Utah’s research on the Mormons of the Latter Day Saints who were found to have the lowest incidents of heart disease in America; the study published in the American Journal of Cardiology that allegedly links fasting to lower diabetes rates; among others.
One firmly believes that through the support and validated findings of diverse studies and researches, intermittent fasting, as an option to losing weight could be a viable alternative for improving health and wellness of individuals. It has already been revealed in government published reports and thrusts towards addressing the problem of obesity that there are higher risks of contracting different illnesses as people become overweight and obese. As such, with the information provided by Roan, and with the support of credible and authoritative sources, readers could be enjoined to try intermittent fasting slowly at first and eventually make this a regular part of everyday life. The benefits noted are worth realizing and the sacrifice of limiting food intake is significantly lesser in exchange for longer, healthier, more productive, and disease-free life.
Work Cited
Roan, Shari. "Running on empty: the pros and cons of fasting." 2 February 2009. Los Angeles Times. 5 December 2012
