Listen to this articleWhat happens to your body if you avoid eating food for 72 hours?x00:001x1.5x1.8xFasting for 72 hours, also known as a three-day water fast, can have various effects on the body. Initially, your body will utilise stored glycogen for energy, leading to a decrease in blood sugar levels. As the fast continues, the body shifts into ketosis, burning fat for fuel. This metabolic state may promote weight loss, mentioned Dr Pankaj Verma, senior consultant, internal medicine, Narayana Hospital, Gurugram.During the fast, there’s a potential decrease in insulin levels, improving insulin sensitivity. “Autophagy, a process where the body removes damaged cells, may also increase, possibly benefiting cellular health,” explained Dr Verma.A 72-hour fasting cumulatively puts one at 7,000 calorie deficit equivalent to about two pounds of fat loss. “If done for longer periods the 72-hour fasting may adversely affect weight and cause weight gain because of adaptive thermogenesis. One s...
