New research: Greek religious post is good for health (video)

A new study revealed significant benefits for the health of the Greek post. It improves the performance of the heart and metabolism associated with the longevity and decrease in the risk of diseases.

Millions of Christians are fasting during the previous Easter weeks. Scientists suggest that ancient religious practice It can bring tangible health benefits.

A recent study under the leadership of Konstantinos Ruskas in the research center of the Biomedical sciences “Alexander Fleming” It connects seasonal abstinence from animal products, common during the post of Greek Orthodox Easter, with positive changes in the metabolism of the body and blood chemistry.

The results of the study demonstrate that short periods of power restrictions, especially those that are practiced for spiritual reasons, can not only feed the soul. They are able to help Reduce the risk of diseases and contribute to a healthier aging.

The study published in NPJ Metabolic Health and Disease tracked more than 400 adults from Thessaloniki. Half of the participants adhered to the traditional Greek Orthodox diet, which includes a post from meat, dairy products and eggs. The other half adhered to a typical “omnivorous” diet throughout the year, tells GreekrePorter.

Researchers Analyzed blood samples Both groups: For the first time during the period when both groups fed normally, and the second time during the Great Lent, when the fasting group avoided animal products.

The tests showed that In the religious post of people, a decrease in the level of substances associated with heart disease was observed, including “poor” cholesterol and saturated fats. In addition, the level of amino acids usually contained in meat decreased. These amino acids are associated with obesity and increased risk of diabetes.

The most significant change was Increase hormone FGF21. It plays a certain role in the body processing fat and sugar. In animals, high levels of FGF21 are associated with longer life and better metabolism. Although the exact role of the hormone in people is still being studied, its increase during starvation indicates the potential benefit for health.

The dietary model of the Greek post is similar to the vegan diet. During fasting, followers avoid meat, fish, dairy products and eggs, although some seafood, such as mollusks, are allowed.

Scientists compared the results of their work with previous studies of veganism and discovered a strong coincidence. More than 80% of metabolic changes observed during starvation coincided with constant vegans.

But unlike vegans, a group of starving returned to the use of animal products. This allowed researchers to observe how quickly the body reacted to changes in the diet. They found that Even short -term restrictions led to noticeable changes in blood chemistry.

Although the periods of starvation lasted only a few weeks, changes in metabolism were quick and significant. Researchers emphasize that they can be temporary and are associated with the restriction period. Nevertheless, the results indicate that even short -term diet adjustments can affect health.

The assessment used to determine the general risk of death – based on 14 different blood markers – decreased during starvation. She remained the same for people who did not starve. The result suggests that A temporary change in the diet improved markers associated with long -term survival.

The team of scientists also considered about 1,500 proteins in the blood. They affect everything: from the immune response to the hormonal balance. In the starvation group, more than 250 proteins have changed over a limited period. One of the outstanding results was a sharp increase in FGF21, mentioned earlier.

It is interesting that about a quarter of proteins, which are influenced by starvation, are targets of existing drugs, including drugs from such ailments as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. This opens doors for future research How food and medicine can work together to improve health.

Eight proteins have changed most during the fasting period. These include those that are associated with metabolism, immune response and inflammation. Some of them, such as OXT, FOLR2 and HAVCR1, are already studied in clinical trials for new treatment methods:

• HAVCR1 associated with the restoration of the kidneys and inflammation. Its level decreases during fasting, which may indicate a decrease in the load on the kidneys or a decrease in inflammation.
• OXT It affects social behavior and appetite, but it can also affect the risk of stroke.
• FGF21 It remains the most noticeable hormone. Produced by the liver, he can help regulate energy and showed himself promising in early tests of drugs for obesity and diabetes. Its increase during starvation, as well as a decrease in the enzyme that breaks it down, can enhance its action.

The study revealed many positive points, but noted some potential disadvantages. Increased levels of certain hormones can eventually affect bone health. Besides, One protein (OXT) was associated with a higher risk of strokeAlthough additional research is necessary to confirm this.

Earlier studies have shown that Vegetarians may face a slightly higher risk of stroke. Some experts suspect that a low level of certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, can play a role. The current study suggests that Similar effects can occur during long periods of starvation if the diet is not balanced.

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