When the human body is deprived of food for long enough—typically 14 to 24 hours—it enters a process called autophagy, which means “self-eating.”
In this state, the body begins to break down and recycle old, damaged, or diseased cells, including those associated with aging, inflammation, and potentially even diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.
This natural detox and repair system helps clear out cellular waste, faulty proteins, and dead mitochondria, effectively cleaning the body from the inside out.
It’s a biological survival mechanism that not only conserves energy but also renews tissues and strengthens immunity.
Discovered by Japanese scientist Yoshinori Ohsumi, this process earned the 2016 Nobel Prize and has since become a growing field in health and longevity science.
Occasional or intermittent fasting may boost this process, helping the body reset and rejuvenate—but it’s not suitable for everyone and should be approached with medical guidance.