PM Modi's numerous fasts: How scientific are they?

India's PM Narendra Modi's practice of going on long fasts numerous times a year has been discussed in online forums since he mentioned it in a podcast with scientist Lex Fridman. While many hail his determination and discipline, people are also wondering how scientific these meal practices are and who it suits.  Doctors say it's important to consider individual body responses to meal patterns and health before attempting fasting, especially long-term fasts. Here are a few of the fasts the PM mentioned in the podcast and what health experts opine about them. 

1. Chaturmas Fast (Mid-June to November) – One meal in 24 hours
This resembles the One-Meal-a-Day practice that many often claim to do. Last year, when iconic rock singer Bruce Springsteen revealed he follows it, the New York Times spoke to many experts on its health results. Dr Caroline Apovian, an obesity specialist, responded that it's not a good idea and said that for most people, it would be a disaster. She explained that getting the daily required calories in a single sitting is challenging, especially if a person is active. At the same time, the experts the paper spoke to also opined that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to meal plans. 

2. Navratri Fast (September/October) – Only hot water for 9 days
We have seen many celebrities attempting water fasting on social media and explaining its health benefits. Water fasting, according to Medical News Today, is when someone abstains from eating and drinks nothing other than water. Apparently, there are no set guidelines for this fast, but children, adolescents, adults above 75 years, pregnant and nursing people and individuals with eating disorders should not go for it without medical supervision. Those who are underweight, have heart issues, type 1 diabetes, migraine and are taking medications should not attempt it at all. Again, there is no one-fit-for-all plan here. 

3. Chaitra Navratri fast (March/April) – One fruit once a day for 9 days
A meal pattern similar to a frutarian diet, which involves eating primarily fruits, is considered an extremely restrictive diet. According to dietician Kate Patton of the Cleveland Clinic, there is a big risk of malnourishment. Therefore, it is generally not recommended. Fruit intake should generally be only 30% of a person's diet, to avoid nutritional imbalances. 

Most fast the wrong way
According to celebrity nutritionist and health coach Ryan Fernando, while fasting is a great way to improve health, lose fat, and increase lifespan, if done wrong, it can result in muscle loss, intense cravings, and tiredness. To get its benefits, the person who is fasting should ensure proper hydration, eat the correct foods before, during, and after fasting, and focus on timing. He opines that fasting for more than 48 hours should only be done under medical supervision.