Fasting is a very controversial and somewhat shocking subject. Most physicians who have no significant experience or study of water fasting will tell you to stay clear of such extreme measures; it is dangerous and will invite all sorts of health challenges and risks. However, fasting has been practiced since the beginning of time, and when done properly can produce a wide range of benefits. In addition to reducing excess body fat, fasting can aid in systemic detoxification on a cellular level and reestablish healthy and normal body chemistry and secretions along with allowing the body (and mind) to empty years of toxic waste.

Fasting is not a “cure”

What a fast does is to provide the optimal conditions for the body to heal itself. The body spends a tremendous amount of time and energy digesting food. When done properly with proper supervision, this energy can be redirected to natural cleansing and healing processes that are within the sacred design of our bodies to heal themselves.

Fasting is a time of rest

It is necessary to know, understand and respect the rules of rest and recuperation to give full attention to increasing bodily awareness. Complete rest, both mental and physical is necessary. You must slow down and honor your body’s needs and messages. Give your body every opportunity for this to be a healing experience—on many levels—and you will know intuitively what you need to do and what you need to let go of to allow this.

Tips for Water Fasting

Getting Ready:  No matter how long you plan to fast, it is not recommended to water fast on your own. Seek guidance from an experienced water fasting source as experienced supervision is invaluable. The toughest part is actually beginning. Many long-term dieters say fasting is easier than dieting after the first 2 or 3 days.

Water:  Drink at least 1/2 gallon of high quality water per day.

Weight loss:  Weight comes off rapidly at first, mostly water weight, then weight loss tapers off. The average sustained weight loss from longer term fasts is one pound per day. Following the fast, the weight can be put back on, but reducing added salt in your diet will help to significantly maintain weight loss.

Rest:  Give yourself plenty of opportunity for rest, both physical and emotional. Even a few minutes on the computer can wear you out in the fasting state. Consider instead to read or watch videos of an uplifting spiritual or self-help nature to add to your experience. Nap whenever you feel the need. Avoid emotional upset, when possible.

Listen to your body:  Use common sense. Overweight individuals may have more energy, while thinner individuals may feel more tired. Light exercise, such as walking or yoga or stretching, may be fine or too much. Work with, not against, yourself.

Detox:  It is helpful to do dry skin brushing and breathing exercises. As cleansing of the body progresses, a natural aversion to unhealthful substances—not just inferior foods, but also alcohol and tobacco and drugs.

Breaking the fast:  Ending the fast requires the utmost care. Begin with thin juices every two hours. Follow with thicker juices with added small pieces of juicy fruit, such as watermelon, every two hours. The length of the fast performed will dictate how many days you take to reacclimate your body to regular eating.

After the fast:  Subtle signals from your body and expert nutritional help can guide you to the foods most appropriate for your needs.

For those who wish to experience the benefits of the fast, “Fasting Can Save Your Life” by Herbert M. Shelton is a good place to start. Happy Fasting!

Recently, Dr. Steiner completed his own 28-day pure distilled water fast under the supervision of Victoria Bidwell. Dr. Alan Steiner practices holistic dentistry at Aesthetic Family Dentistry in Denville. For information, call 973-214-7565 or visit AestheticFamilyDentistry.com.