Is intermittent fasing helpful after bypass surgery?

[Jogeshwar]

It is usual to revise life style after bypass surgery. Can intermittent fasting be added to it?

[kenkeith]

No one on this forum is qualified to give advice regarding an unproven procedure that could be detrimental to one's health.  Consult your doctor who is familiar with your general health or contact an expert on the expert forum.

[cath911]

Oh, on the fasting days, you could drink fresh fruit juices which are very high in antioxidants, plus good for vitamins and minerals.

[cath911]

If you drink plenty of fluids but you must ensure you eat a well balanced healthy diet for the other six days. You don't want to end up with iron deficiency for example. It might be worth checking with your GP first. They could do a blood test before you start to make sure you have everything you need in the right quantities, then do a follow up test a couple of weeks later to see if anything has dropped too much.
The important thing is not to over compensate for the loss. What I mean is, if you decide every sunday you will fast, don't eat double on monday because you feel so hungry.

[kenkeith]

I haven't ever read anywhere a cardiologist recommending  fasting to be therapeutic for post surgery bypass or any heart disorders.  The opponents of fasting (mostly physicians) are as ardent as fasting's supporters. "No scientific evidence exists that fasting has any benefits for the body. In fact, a body that is starved or depleted would not be as effective or efficient at eliminating offending substances," says Dr. Peter Pressman, assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Southern California.

Fasting and "cleansing" programs can create a host of medical problems, including damage to your gastrointestinal tract, nutrient malabsorption, impaired liver function, anemia, kidney stones,  and hypoglycemia. Gaining body fat is yet another possible hazard of fasting. "When you stop fasting, the first thing your body wants to do is nourish and refeed. Your body is afraid it's going to starve again, so it will crave high calorie foods — that's why this is the most important phase. If you eat the same unhealthy foods you had before the fast, you will gain fat," says Patton.

Consult your doctor before going on any fasting program, it could be harmful.

[Jogeshwar]

Thanks.I had undergone bypass surgery on December 29,2009. Can I start fasting once a week henceforth?

[cath911]

According to lab tests there are benefits to fasting. Lab animals have been shown to live much longer if fasted for one day a week and this seems to also work with insects. One theory states that it allows all the antioxidants built up in the body to be brought under control and the acidic ph of the body to be lowered. I've often wondered if this would benefit humans and so long as plenty of water is consumed, I can only see benefits.
Of course, I don't think it would serve much benefit for someone highly active, they need the energy. I wonder how many of us actually only eat what the body requires for our daily needs, not many I bet.

[kenkeith]

It is better to eat a heart healthy, balanced meal regularily and regular exercise.  I don't know of any benefits with fasting?