In my household, we've embraced the concept of Fasting Fridays, a day when our dogs skip breakfast to allow their bodies to reset and heal.
Now, some readers might raise an eyebrow at this idea – why would you deprive your dog of a meal once a week? Read on to discover why we've adopted this weekly fasting routine.
Renowned Harvard University researcher and longevity expert, Dr. David Sinclair, advocates for increased longevity through the simple principle of "eating less often."
Just like humans, scientific research indicates that our animals can also benefit from intermittent fasting, potentially even extending their lives.
What is Fasting?
Fasting involves refraining from eating for a set period, typically for health reasons.
We recommend a 24 hour fast, which is actually only skipping one meal for a dog who’s fed twice a day. During fasting we recommend not giving your canine anything aside from water, or perhaps a raw bone to chew on.
Why Fasting?
Fasting is a long-standing global practice with numerous benefits for both humans and canines.
This form of eating mimics the way your canine would behave in a natural environment, as even excellent canine hunters would regularly go without food for a day or two between kills. Unlike herbivores, predatory animals aren't designed for constant digestion.
In a fasted state, where your dog hasn't consumed its regular meal, the body taps into fat reserves for energy. This process helps eliminate accumulated waste products such as toxins, stored in fat reserves and the liver over time. It also clears the digestive system of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemical toxins.
To put it simply, fasting boosts your dog’s immune system and allows your dog’s body to reset and heal when they are not well.
What are the benefits of fasting?
Intermittent fasting for our canines has been linked to the following benefits:
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Regulates blood sugar levels
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Improved brain function
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Boosts metabolism
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Supports weight loss
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Lowers inflammation levels
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Prevents neurodegenerative disorders
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Assists in longevity
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Reduces “bad” cholesterol levels
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Slows down the ageing process
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Potentially reduces tumour growth
A boosted metabolism and lowering of inflammation means relief for arthritis and other joint problems, along with reduced risk of cancer and heart disease!
Is fasting right for my dog?
The only dogs who shouldn’t fast are puppies (wait until they’re fully grown) or dogs who are severely underweight. If your dog doesn't fall into these categories, a weekly or monthly fast could have remarkable benefits for them.
We understand that asking your canine companion to skip a meal might make you nervous. They might even give you those classic puppy dog eyes, wondering where their breakfast is. However, the potential health benefits make it worth trying.
Give it a shot and witness the positive effects for yourself!
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