Fasting has been practiced for centuries, often for religious or spiritual reasons, but more recently, it has gained attention for its potential health benefits. One area of growing interest is the impact of fasting on gut health and its implications for autoimmune conditions like ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. Understanding how fasting might influence gut health and, in turn, affect AS could open new avenues for managing this condition.

The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiota. These microorganisms play a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and overall health. An imbalance in the gut microbiota, often referred to as dysbiosis, has been linked to various health issues, including inflammatory diseases like AS. The hypothesis is that fasting might help restore balance to the gut microbiota, thereby reducing inflammation and potentially alleviating symptoms of AS.

Understanding Fasting and Its Types

Fasting can take many forms, from complete abstinence from all food and drink for a pe...