Several studies indicate that fasting can increase immunity. Conversely, there are no studies that show fasting risks increasing COVID-19 infection
Yogyakarta (ANTARA) - Fasting can boost the immune system or the body's immunity in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to R. Dwi Budiningsari, a nutritionist at the Gadjah Mada University. "Several studies indicate that fasting can increase immunity. Conversely, there are no studies that show fasting risks increasing COVID-19 infection," Budiningsari noted in a written statement received in Yogyakarta on Friday.

The nutritionist stated that proper fasting can repair damaged cells. Fasting for a 30-day period can stimulate the production of new white blood cells, thereby facilitating the regeneration of the entire immune system.

Budiningsari believes that the regenerated immune system will further strengthen the body in warding off various bacterial and viral infections and other ailments.

The nutritionist emphasized that the body's immunity is significantly influenced by the quality and quantity of nutritional intake.

Budiningsari pointed to malnutritioned people being increasingly susceptible to contracting the COVID-19 infection.

People, with proper nutritional intake, are most likely to destroy the new type of coronavirus also known as COVID-19.

Budiningsari highlighted the three functions of proper nutritional intake: a source of energy for the body as the main priority; regulatory function to regulate the body to stay healthy and fit, including the immune function; and growth that will occur if the first and second functions are fulfilled.

Not only does fasting boost immunity, but it can also help in detoxifying or expelling several poisons stored in the body. For instance, addictive substances in food, such as preservatives and food coloring.

Furthermore, fasting can reduce excess body fat mass that can harm the balance of the human immune system. This is since the excess fat will trigger cell production that causes inflammation of the body's organs, thereby triggering the emergence of vascular disease and other health conditions.

"If the excess fat can be shed, then the body’s immunity can be improved," the chairperson of the Yogyakarta Association of Nutrition and Food Experts stated.

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Reporter: Luqman Hakim, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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