Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar has began. It involves abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual relations from dawn to sunset, in the hopes that it will lead to greater "taqwa", or consciousness of God.

Muslims were commanded to fast during Ramadan more than 1,400 years ago. The fasting help deliveres many healthy benefits to us. some scientists are advocating a modified fast for its mental and physical benefits.

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According to the experts, restricting food intake during the day can help prevent health problems such as high cholesterol, heart disease and obesity, as well as improve mental health and wellbeing.

By not consuming any food, our body is able to concentrate on removing toxins, as we give the digestive system a rest.

Fasting allows the gut to cleanse and strengthens its lining. It can also stimulate a process called autophagy, which is where cells self-cleanse and remove damaged and dangerous particles."

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Scientists have also been studying the link between diet, gut health and mental wellbeing and, as Mosley explained, fasting can lead to the release of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in the brain.

Fasting also help in get rid of the fat. Many people who have embraced fasting have also found that, done properly, it has helped them lose fat and gain lean muscle mass.