The Power of Long-Duration Fasting
- Britt Ringstrom
- Mar 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 11
A Natural Reset for Brain, Body & Longevity
Here is a topic I enjoy thoroughly because I have seen the beautiful outcomes for many; whether on a physical or spiritual level BUT also, on the disclipline front.
In a world of consumers of...all and anything—more meals, more screens, more stimulation—perhaps not consuming might be the key to deeper healing.
Long-duration fasting, typically defined as going without food for 36 to 96 hours. Although, this isn't a "new method".....some of todays handsome experts like Andrew Huberman, Ben Greenfield, and Dr. Peter Attia all speak volumes of this powerful longevity tool.
When done with good intentions, fasting becomes more than just another "biohack" for your family to casually roll their eyes about. It becomes a cellular reboot—enhancing brain health, cancer resistance, inflammation control, and metabolic clarity.
Neuroprotection & Alzheimer's Prevention
This man, to my right, is my Father.
He was and still is, a big "Why" of the passion I hold towards natural healing, but especially around Neuroprotection. My Dad had Alzheimer's and one tool I added to our toolbox, of so many, was fasting.
One of the most profound benefits of long-duration fasting is its effect on the brain. Fasting increases a critical protein called BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)—think of it as fertilizer for your neurons. BDNF supports the growth of new brain cells, strengthens memory pathways, and protects against cognitive decline.
Are you compelled yet?? Well, as you have heard me chirp a few too many times....Alzheimer’s is finally being properly referred to as "Type 3 Diabetes", due to insulin resistance in the brain. When your neurons cannot process glucose efficiently, they starve, inflame, and deteriorate.
Fasting helps to shift the brain to using ketones for energy—which is a cleaner fuel that bypasses insulin resistance and helps reduce amyloid plaque buildup. This was originally labeled as a linchpin of Alzheimers but more debate has come to fruition over the years on this method. (Another day, another discussion)
Cancer Defense & Cellular Cleanup (Autophagy)
By around the 24-hour mark, your body begins activating autophagy—a deep cellular cleansing process. Damaged proteins, aging cells, and precancerous mutations are broken down and recycled.
Cancer cells thrive on glucose. But during fasting, your glucose levels drop, and your healthy cells adapt using fat and ketones—while cancer-prone cells weaken without their fuel source.
Inflammation Control:
A Systemic Reset
Chronic inflammation is behind nearly every major health issue: heart disease, autoimmune conditions, chronic pain, even anxiety and depression.
Long-duration fasting helps reduce inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-6, giving your immune system space to rest and regenerate.
Many people experience reduced joint pain, clearer thinking, and calmer mood after multi-day fasts.
Blood Sugar Regulation & Metabolic Flexibility
Fasting powerfully improves insulin sensitivity, stabilizes blood sugar, and teaches your body to switch efficiently between burning carbs and fat—a concept known as metabolic flexibility.
This shift reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and stubborn fat storage. Plus, you’ll likely notice better energy, less brain fog, and more stable moods throughout the day.
Fasting, at its core, is a return to rhythm—a reminder of how our bodies were designed to function when not overloaded or overstimulated. Please know, my friends, it’s not about punishment or deprivation. It’s about clarity, healing, and resilience. Whether you’re looking to prevent disease, sharpen your mind, or simply reconnect with your body’s natural intelligence, consider the powerful tool of long-duration fasting.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to join me, my clients, and friends in our weekly 36-hour fasts every Sunday evening into Tuesday morning. It’s a beautiful way to step into discipline, restoration, and community—together.
Here, is to your health and longevity,
-Britt
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