Fasting Myths Debunked: What Happens When You Don't Eat?

Every year millions of Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset, as part of the holy month of Ramadan.

Fasting during Ramadan goes back to one of Islam's core tenets, but the act of giving up food from eight to 12 hours a day isn't exclusive to a single religion. Fasting, as Discovery News points out, can be a lifestyle choice, not just a spiritual one.

So while just about anyone can fast — many of us do already after waking up from a long night's sleep — what happens to our bodies when we're deprived of food and nutrients?

While the idea of starving during lunch doesn't sound like the best idea, research claims there are some perks to fasting regularly. Check out the video above for more.

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