Is there any science on water fast over drinking caffeine like coffee and green tea? Also is there any science on taking fiber that has calories like Chia seeds or Flax seeds as breaking a fast? What is supposed to be the problem with eating low calories like AF one day and then no calories the next? This would be for weight loss and stomach healing.
There are many benefits of fasting that are still being explored, and there is some pretty exciting things being learned about ketosis and autophagy, along with other fringe benefits having to do with mental improvements and many other things.
That being said, the accepted science on the subject still apprehensive about overtly embracing many of these things on the whole. Scientifically speaking, until there’s more data on these other benefits, the reason fasting works for well for weight loss is simply because it puts you into a caloric deficit, just like any other diet. I might get strung up for saying that in this sub, but oh well.
There may have been more things learned since this came out originally in early 2019, but it’s still full of relevant information. It’s an episode of a podcast called “Science Vs” where, as you could guess, journalists use science to approach common topics or misconceptions. In this particular episode they talk all about fasting with many reputable professionals and explore the topic pretty deeply. I highly recommend giving it a listen. The rest of the episodes are genuinely good, as well, if you’re into the subject material and science in general.
Science Vs. Fasting: What’s the Skinny?
And here is a link to a transcript of the episode complete with links to sources.
Good luck on your fasting journey!
Dr Fung says: Chia seeds: Chia seeds are high in soluble fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These seeds absorb water and form a gel when soaked in liquid for thirty minutes, which may aid in appetite suppression. They can be eaten dry or made into a gel or pudding. These may be taken during a fast to help suppress hunger. Once again, while technically breaking the fast, the effect is so slight that it does not significantly detract from the benefits of the fast. The increased compliance more than compensates.