Doctor 24/7: Can fasting and drinking alkaline water cure diseases?

Specialist Doctor 1 Truong Le Luy Na, Deputy Head of the Department of Nutrition, Hospital for Tropical Diseases (HCMC), answered: Currently, some people follow the trend of intermittent fasting - that is, eating in cycles, for example, eating only during an 8-hour period and fasting for the remaining 16 hours of the day. Some studies show that, if applied correctly and in accordance with the physical condition, this method can support weight control, improve blood sugar, and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases.

Some people follow the intermittent fasting trend, which involves eating in cycles, for example eating only during an 8-hour window and fasting for the remaining 16 hours of the day.

Illustration: AI

However, if you fast completely for a long time or without a doctor's guidance, it can cause many consequences: lack of energy, hypoglycemia, muscle loss, and effects on internal organs. In particular, children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people being treated for chronic diseases (such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, etc.) should not apply it.

Does alkaline water cure diseases?

Alkaline water is water with a higher pH than regular filtered water. Some people believe that alkaline water helps neutralize acid in the body and cure diseases. However, there is currently not enough scientific evidence to confirm that drinking alkaline water every day can prevent or cure diseases.

The body has a very good mechanism to self-regulate pH through the kidneys and lungs, so alkaline water supplementation is not necessary, and if abused, it can cause acid-base balance disorders.

What is a healthy diet?

• Eat a variety of foods: You should rotate food groups such as carbohydrates, proteins, good fats, vegetables and fruits.
• Limit sugar, salt, saturated fat: Reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
• Eat lots of green vegetables and fresh fruits: Provide vitamins, minerals and fiber.
• Drink enough water every day: About 1.5-2 liters of filtered water, not necessarily alkaline water.
• Eat on time.
• Combine regular physical exercise every day.

Fads like fasting and drinking alkaline water are not “miracle cures.” They are not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. If you want to improve your health, consult your doctor or nutritionist for advice that is best suited to your condition.

Readers can ask questions to the Doctor 24/7 column by entering comments below the article or sending them via email: suckhoethanhnien247@gmail.com .

Questions will be forwarded to doctors, experts... to answer for readers.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/bac-si-24-7-nhin-an-uong-nuoc-kiem-co-chua-duoc-benh-185250401225837951.htm