Prolonged Fasting: The Metabolic Reset for Diabetes, Obesity & Hypertension

Lifestyle diseases like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension are becoming more common today. While medicines often manage symptoms, prolonged fasting offers a natural way to target the root causes. This ancient practice, supported by modern science, is gaining attention for its ability to improve health and reset metabolism effectively.

What Exactly Is Prolonged Fasting?

Prolonged fasting, also known as extended fasting, means going without food for more than 24 hours—typically between 36 hours and several days. Unlike intermittent fasting, which lasts 14–18 hours daily, prolonged fasting dives deeper into metabolic healing. Some choose water-only fasts, while others use fasting-mimicking diets under medical supervision. Both approaches activate cellular repair and enhance overall health.

Prolonged Fasting and Diabetes Management

Prolonged fasting and diabetes control are closely linked. By shifting from glucose to fat as the main fuel source, insulin levels drop and insulin sensitivity improves. This helps lower blood sugar naturally and reduces insulin resistance, which is central to type 2 diabetes. Supervised programs even show cases of diabetes remission, making fasting a promising tool for long-term sugar control.

Weight Loss Benefits of Extended Fasting

For those struggling with obesity, prolonged fasting is more than a trend—it is a metabolic reset. By depleting stored glucose, the body begins burning fat, including visceral fat, which is hard to lose. Extended fasting lowers the hunger hormone ghrelin, increases fat-burning ketones, and reduces cravings. Combined with a balanced lifestyle, it supports sustainable weight management.

Prolonged Fasting and Hypertension Relief

Research shows that prolonged fasting and hypertension reduction go hand in hand. Fasting flushes excess sodium, reduces oxidative stress, and balances hormones like cortisol. Within days, many people see improved systolic and diastolic readings. Some even reduce or discontinue blood pressure medication under medical guidance.

What Happens Inside the Body?

During a prolonged fast, blood sugar levels drop, fat burning increases, autophagy (cell repair) activates, and inflammation decreases. This isn’t just calorie restriction—it’s deep metabolic healing.

Conclusion

From balancing sugar levels to reducing blood pressure and promoting fat loss, prolonged fasting is a powerful, drug-free way to heal from within. When done safely under guidance, it offers a sustainable path to reversing chronic conditions and restoring health.

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https://www.freedomfromdiabetes.org/blog/post/prolonged-fasting-for-diabetes-obesity-hypertension/4738