Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Experts weigh in on Sonali Bendre's 18-20 hour fasting routine
Sonali Bendre, an actress, revealed that she practices intermittent fasting for 18-20 hours a day to promote autophagy, a process where the body clears out damaged cells.
This has sparked a debate among experts.
Some experts say that fasting for such long periods can be harmful and disrupt the stomach's natural digestive cycle, leading to ulcers and other digestive issues.
They recommend a fasting window of 12-13 hours for the general population.
Other experts argue that extended fasting can be beneficial for certain individuals, particularly those with specific medical conditions.
However, they caution that it should be done under medical supervision.
The scientific evidence supporting the benefits of extended fasting is still limited, and more research is needed.
People with diabetes, eating disorders, or a history of cancer should be particularly cautious before attempting prolonged fasting.
Sonali Bendre practices intermittent fasting for 18-20 hours a day to promote autophagy.
Experts warn that prolonged fasting can disrupt the stomach's natural digestive cycle and lead to ulcers.
Most scientific research supports 14-16 hour fasting windows for metabolic benefits.
Autophagy, a process of clearing damaged cells, is increased by fasting in animal studies but lacks robust clinical evidence in humans.
Extended fasting is not suitable for everyone, especially those with specific medical conditions like cancer or diabetes.
- Who
- Sonali Bendre, Dr. Jayati, Mayanka Singhal, Priyanka Shah, Aditi Biswas
- What
- Extended fasting for 18-20 hours
- When
- Not specified
- Where
- Not specified
- Why
- To promote autophagy and potential metabolic benefits
Proponents of Extended Fasting
Critics of Extended Fasting
Health Benefits
Proponents of Extended Fasting
Proponents argue that extended fasting promotes autophagy, which helps clear damaged cells and may offer metabolic benefits.
Critics of Extended Fasting
Critics contend that prolonged fasting can disrupt the stomach's natural digestive cycle, leading to ulcers and other digestive issues.
Suitability for General Population
Proponents of Extended Fasting
Some believe that extended fasting can be beneficial for certain individuals, particularly those with specific medical conditions.
Critics of Extended Fasting
Critics argue that extended fasting is not suitable for most people and should only be undertaken under medical supervision.
Scientific Evidence
Proponents of Extended Fasting
Proponents cite animal and laboratory studies that show increased autophagy during fasting.
Critics of Extended Fasting
Critics point out that robust clinical evidence in humans, particularly linking autophagy to improved cancer outcomes, is still lacking.
- Fasting Duration
- 18-20 hours
- Common Fasting Window
- 14-16 hours
- Autophagy
- Process of clearing damaged cells
- Recommended Fasting for General Population
- 12-13 hours
- Risks of Prolonged Fasting
- Gastric ulcers, malnutrition, nutritional deficiencies