Philippov fast and disease: nutritional, metabolic and psychosomatic dynamics in the context of asceticism Introduction: Fasting as an anthropological and physiological phenomenon Philippov (Rozhdestvensky) fast is one of the four multi-day fasts in the Orthodox tradition, lasting from November 28 to January 6. From a medical and nutritional point of view, it represents a unique example of a long-term, cyclically repeated food restriction with certain qualitative characteristics (refusal of animal products, in some days - fish and vegetable oil). The study of its impact on the body during illness requires a comprehensive analysis, taking into account not only the biochemistry of nutrition, but also the psychoneuroimmune aspects of faith and ritual. Biochemical and metabolic aspects of fasting during illness Energy balance and protein: The main limitation is the deficiency of high-quality animal protein containing all essential amino acids. For a healthy organism, a short-term deficiency can be compensated for by means of plant combinations (legumes + grains). However, during illness, the need for protein sharply increases - it is necessary for the synthesis of immunoglobulins, antibodies, tissue repair. A long-term fast with an unbalanced vegetarian diet may slow down recovery in acute infections, traumas, after operations. Fat-soluble vitamins and trace elements: The refusal of animal products creates a risk of a deficiency of vitamin B12 (critical for hematopoiesis and the nervous system), iron (in heme form, better absorbed), calcium and vitamin D (especially in the absence of fish and dairy products). This may exacerbate conditions related to anemia, osteoporosis, immune dysfunction. Food fibers and microbiome: A sharp transition to a diet rich in fiber (vegetables, grains, legumes) may cause dyspeptic symptoms in an unprepared person (bloating, gas formation). However, in the long term, this has a beneficial effect on the gut microbiome, which is important for ... Read more