Navratri is considered as one of the most auspicious time for Hindus. Devotees offer prayer to Goddess Durga and observe fast during this time.

Fasting has always seemed like too much hard work to a lot of us. And we make it sound even harder when we assume that fasting is basically starvation. Who would want to put themselves through hours of grueling, self-imposed starvation?

But actually, fasting isn’t quite the same as starvation. Sure, you go a few hours without eating. But you don’t go whole days without eating.

Fasting, if done during navratri  for all nine days can detoxify body, provided that good amount of fruits, vegetables, milk products and unsweetened beverages are included. It can also improve cardiovascular function, blood composition, and blood pressure, say experts.

Benefits of Fasting : Here are few of the benefits of fasting.

Helps in Weight loss

Fasting can be a safe way to lose weight as many studies have shown that intermittent fasting – fasting that is controlled within a set number of hours–allows the body to burn through fat cells more effectively than just regular dieting.

Improves Insulin Sensitivity

Fasting has shown to have a positive effect on insulin sensitivity, allowing you to tolerate carbohydrates (sugar) better than if you didn’t fast. A study showed that after periods of fasting, insulin becomes more effective in telling cells to take up glucose from blood.

Speeding up the Metabolism

Intermittent fasts can regulate your digestion and promote healthy bowel function, thus improving your metabolic function.

Improves your eating patterns 

Fasting can be a helpful practice for those who suffer with binge eating disorders, intermittent fasting going all afternoon without a meal is okay and it can allow you to eat at a set time that fits your lifestyle.

Improves your immune system 

Intermittent fasting improves the immune system because it reduces free radical damage, regulates inflammatory conditions in the body and starves off cancer cell formation.

Brings self-discipline

Another benefit of fasting is that it brings self-discipline and keep us away from eating unnecessary food.

Thus these are few of the benefits of fasting.