The Effects of Fasting Program on the Concept of Intermittent Fasting according to Buddhist Integration

Abstract

The purposes of this research were 1) to study the fasting concept in Theravada Buddhism, 2) to study the concept of intermittent fasting, and 3) to propose the effects of fasting program on the concept of intermittent fasting according to Buddhist integration. Mixed methods research was used in this research by using a quantitative method to extend qualitative results. The research instruments were the fasting program on the concept of intermittent fasting according to Buddhist integration, Health record form, 3) the Thai depression inventory for assessing depression score emotional state when fasting for 16 hours, Nutrition Alert Form (NAF), and daily diaries. Results indicated that 1) The Buddhist way to solve the imbalance problem is fasting. The Lord Buddha gradually introduced fasting to his monastic disciples by mentioning that he was at ease and healthy by taking only a single meal per day. 2)  Intermittent fasting can be defined as an eating pattern where one alternates between periods of eating and fasting. Anytime that they are not eating, it means they are intermittently fasting. Intermittent fasting is not unusual but a part of everyday normal life. There are a lot of benefits of intermittent fasting including, weight and body fat loss, increased fat burning, lowered blood insulin and sugar levels, the reversal of type 2 diabetes, improved mental clarity and concentration, increased energy, improved growth hormone, improved blood cholesterol profile, possibly longer life, possibly activation of cellular cleansing by stimulating autophagy and reduction of inflammation. 3) The fasting program on the concept of intermittent fasting according to Buddhist integration aims to change dietary habits to achieve good health and longevity. The level of depression after joined the program had shown a decreasing level of depression at the non-significant level.