Eating less is a tried and true way to lose weight. Humans can live without food longer than they can live without water or air. How long depends on the physical health of the individual. Someone new to fasting may want to start with a 24 hour period and no one should fast on water alone for more than three days without supervision. Certain medical conditions make it inadvisable to fast for even a short time unless under the care of a physician. Diabetics, for instance, would require careful monitoring of blood glucose levels. Before fasting for any reason, it is wise to consult a doctor.
Fasting in Literature
Arnold Ehret's book Rational Fasting, written in 1913, is a classic among books about fasting for health. The author details how he was cured of tuberculosis by extended fasting on lemonade. Although there is some outdated medical information in the book, much of Ehret's commonsense advice is followed by fasting advocates today. The central point regarding safety is in ending the fast; Ehret recounts a tragic tale of a man who died after a lengthy fast from a meal of cooked potatoes. Fasts should end with either cleansing fruit or healing non-starchy raw vegetables, according to Ehret, and nothing else should be eaten until after an adequate bowel movement.
Prepare For A Fast
Take fiber supplements daily with plenty of water for a week before the fast. Avoid those containing wheat bran, a substance which is irritating to the intestines, and do not take fiber while fasting. Prepare for a fast by cutting down gradually on coffee and caffeinated sodas, so that caffeine headaches do not occur. A diet of nothing but raw fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds for a day or two before the fast begins will better prepare the digestive system and help the body load up on nutrients.
Fast on Liquids
Most fasts are done on liquids alone. Water fasting is not recommended for more than one to three days without supervision. Juice fasting can be safely done for up to 10 days and is gentler than water fasting. A home juicer can provide nutrients from fruits and vegetables in liquid form. Fresh raw organic vegetables and fruits should be used; commercial juices have high sugar content, few nutrients and are not appropriate for fasting. Herb teas are a good addition to a fast and green tea with raw honey or stevia is acceptable for those who are accustomed to caffeine.
Fruit juice is cleansing and can be taken freely by those in good health. Raw vegetable juices are healing; a person with impaired health will do better to start with dark leafy greens. Celery, romaine lettuce, and cucumber can be combined for a refreshing drink. Add carrot and tomato for a more robust flavor. If not used to juicing, go slow, taking only six to eight ounces at a time. A 12-ounce glass of spinach juice might trigger diarrhea.
When using fruit juices, also, start with small amounts to gauge the effect on the stomach. Pineapple contains bromelain, a digestive enzyme, which is healthy but might create nausea in some people. The high pectin content of fresh raw apple juice can cause abdominal cramps in some when taken in large amounts. Combine lemon and apple juice for a luscious lemonade.
Manage Symptoms During and After Fasting
Do not chew gum while fasting, as this causes the body to secrete digestive enzymes and nausea may result. Spirulina is a blue green algae which is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. A serving of spirulina taken three times a day while fasting can help to stabilize low blood sugar. Don't forget to consume plenty of clean fresh water. Take it easy and rest while fasting. Those with slower metabolisms may feel energized when only taking liquids. Others, such as those with faster metabolisms, might feel weak or dizzy and have mild temporary symptoms such as headaches, mental confusion, or lethargy. Any unwanted symptoms can be stopped immediately by breaking the fast, but it is crucial to do this in the right way. Green salad vegetables or a bowl of fresh fruit is appropriate. Watermelon, eaten alone, is good for causing a bowel movement. Delay eating cooked starches or proteins until the next day and do not combine them in the same meal.
References:
Arnold Ehret, Rational Fasting, Health Research, 1996
Phyllis Balch, CNC, Prescription For Nutritional Healing, Avery, 2004
Paul Bragg, Patricia Bragg, The Miracle of Fasting, Bragg Health Sciences, 2005
Mary Earhart - Mary Earhart, RN, BSN, is a Licensed Midwife. She has written articles for professional journals and grants for non-profit agencies as ...
Join the Conversation