Why I No Longer Do Extended Fasting

About this video

• Video Title: Why I No Longer Do Extended Fasting
• Channel: Siim Land
• Speakers: Siim Land
• Duration: 00:07:23

Overview

This video explains why the speaker, Siim Land, no longer practices extended fasting (beyond five days). He discusses the perceived benefits like autophagy and longevity pathways, but argues that these are not clearly proven in humans and can be achieved through other means. He highlights the negative side effects of extended fasting, such as decreased thyroid function and metabolic rate, and suggests that shorter fasts (3-5 days) or regular exercise are more beneficial and sustainable for health and longevity.

Key takeaways

• Limited Benefits of Extended Fasting: While extended fasts (over 5 days) might activate autophagy and longevity pathways in animal studies, there's a lack of clear human data to support these benefits for human longevity.
• Weight Loss vs. Fasting: Improvements seen from extended fasts are often attributable to severe calorie restriction and subsequent weight loss, which can also be achieved through less extreme methods.
• Negative Side Effects: Extended fasting can lead to a significant decrease in thyroid function, metabolic rate, and leptin levels, which may persist for months even after refeeding.
• Exercise as a Superior Alternative: Exercise, especially intense training, can mimic some benefits of fasting like activating longevity pathways and is more beneficial for overall health, muscle mass, and fitness, which are crucial for vitality and health span.
• Shorter Fasts are Acceptable: Fasts of 3-5 days, done occasionally, are generally considered safe and unlikely to cause significant metabolic damage or muscle loss, unlike longer fasts.