What are the benefits of Fasting?

Fasting is considered the most healthy habit in our culture. It is said that Lankhanam Paramoushadham. This Sanskrit phrase translates into, Fasting is the most important medicine. Another name for fasting is Upavaasam. Upavaasam is derived from two words Upa and Vaasam which means staying near. So upavaasam gives the meaning of staying near god or divinity. When meditating or performing a ritual nature calls and gases in the stomach disturb a lot. Fasting is advised during these times.