As someone who fasts for a full month of the year, I can chime in. It is true that you probably shouldn't do it for the weight loss alone, as you tend to compen

As someone who fasts for a full month of the year, I can chime in. It is true that you probably shouldn't do it for the weight loss alone, as you tend to compensate, or over-compensate, once fasting is broken. That said there are many other benefits, as acknowledged by the author. Most people feel a heightened sense of awareness and clarity during fasting (the opposite of the lazy feeling after a meal). There is a reason most spiritual traditions include an element of fasting. Besides this there is a range of proven health benefits (Wikipedia cites reduced risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, insulin resistance, immune disorders, slowing of the aging process, and the potential to increase maximum life span). Just like exercising, it is 'unpleasant' for the mind to be forced into, but feels 'right' once you get it done and you actually grow fond of it in spite of the hardship.