What is the effect of fasting on the effectiveness of medications and chemotherapy?
A program on Al Jazeera discusses the potential benefits of fasting on health and medication effectiveness, especially for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
The program "With the Wise" on Al Jazeera presented a report from Healthline magazine discussing how regular fasting not only improves physical health but may also enhance the effectiveness of certain medications, including some chemotherapy treatments for cancer patients. Research indicates that fasting supports cellular health, reduces inflammation, regulates sugar levels, and boosts metabolic processes. However, experts emphasized the need for comprehensive medical supervision during fasting, particularly for diabetic and cancer patients, to avoid any interference with treatments or effects on dosage.
Additionally, the program highlighted an American study on processed foods targeted at children, revealing that 71% of 651 analyzed products, such as sweetened yogurt, chips, and breakfast cereals, contain high levels of sugar and sodium. Experts explained that these products expose children early to sweet and salty flavors, which may steer their preferences towards fast food and reduce their acceptance of fresh foods in the future.
The episode also featured a report from Al Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, Gaza, showcasing the resilience of patients and medical staff amid the collapse of the healthcare system. The segment illustrated the challenges faced by healthcare workers and the ongoing struggle to provide care in such dire conditions, emphasizing the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure.