72-hour fasting trend explained: What celebrities are trying, and is it really safe or practical?

In a recent interview, actor Tovino Thomas revealed that he occasionally follows a 72-hour fasting routine as part of his fitness and discipline approach, which has sparked fresh curiosity online.

Fans and fitness enthusiasts are now discussing what such a prolonged fast actually involves, and whether it is a safe or practical practice for everyday people. The comment has added to a growing social media trend where extended fasting is often linked with wellness, fat loss, and “body reset” routines, leaving many wondering if it is a celebrity-level habit or something that can realistically be followed in normal life.

Why are people talking about 72-hour fasting?

In recent years, fasting has moved from a medical or religious practice into mainstream wellness culture. Many celebrities and fitness personalities talk about longer fasts as a way to “reset” the body, improve discipline, or support weight management. This has led to curiosity around the 72-hour fast in particular, which is often described online as a “deep cleanse” or “metabolic reset”.

For example, people see posts about skipping food for three days and claim feeling more “focused” or “lighter”, which naturally makes others wonder if it is a new health secret or just another trend.

What actually happens in a 72-hour fast?

A 72-hour fast means consuming no calories for three full days, usually only water, tea, or black coffee. After about a day, the body starts running out of stored sugar and shifts into burning fat for energy. This process is called ketosis.

By the third day, the body is fully adapted to this state, meaning it is using fat-derived fuel instead of carbohydrates. Some people report reduced hunger and occasional mental clarity, while others may feel fatigue, dizziness, or irritability as the body adjusts.

Is it really a “detox” or metabolism reset?

The term “detox” is often used in popular discussions, but scientifically, the body already has natural detox systems like the liver and kidneys. What fasting actually does is change how the body sources energy.

During a long fast, insulin levels drop, fat stores are used more actively, and cellular processes like autophagy may increase. This is why some people associate fasting with a “reset” feeling, although the extent of these effects can vary from person to person.

This is where the reality becomes important. A 72-hour fast is not a casual lifestyle habit. While some healthy adults may attempt it under supervision or with experience in fasting, it is not suitable for everyone.

For example, someone with a busy routine, physically demanding work, or underlying health conditions may experience weakness, low blood sugar symptoms, or dehydration. Even for healthy individuals, improper fasting can lead to headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

It is also not practical for people who need consistent energy throughout the day, such as students during exams, athletes in training, or individuals with irregular health patterns.

Why do some people try it anyway?

Despite the risks, some people are drawn to it because of claims around fat loss, mental clarity, or “discipline building”. On social media, fasting is sometimes portrayed as a quick way to reset eating habits or break unhealthy patterns.

However, results are not the same for everyone. What feels manageable for one person may feel overwhelming or unsafe for another, depending on hydration, sleep, stress levels, and overall health.

A 72-hour fast is not a miracle solution or a universal wellness hack. It is a strong physiological challenge that changes how the body uses energy, and while it may have potential benefits in controlled settings, it also carries real risks if done incorrectly or without preparation.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Prolonged fasting such as a 72-hour fast can carry health risks and may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals should consult a qualified healthcare professional before attempting any extended fasting regimen, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions, are on medication, pregnant, or under 18 years of age.)