| Fasting Tips Since my 90-Day Renewal program incorporates a series of 1 and 2-day fasts, let me say a few words on the subject before we begin. If you have any medical concerns about fasting, talk with your doctor first. Obviously, those with blood-sugar related diseases need to seek special guidance before undertaking a fast. First, the Benefits of Fasting:
Fasting guidelines: · First and foremost: Do NOT consume caffeine while fasting! If possible, eliminate caffeine a few days before your fast. For a great coffee alternative, try Teeccino. It is all natural and caffeine-free, yet tastes JUST like coffee (maybe even better!) and provides even more energy through potassium. Take a whole food supplement, such as JuicePlus, to ensure that your body continues to get the nourishment it needs. When I completed my 40-day fast, I actually felt BETTER and more energetic than when I eat normally. · Be aware that you may experience headaches, jitters, shivering, nausea, diarrhea and other side effects as your body “detoxifies” itself. This is especially true if you have been eating an unhealthy diet for many years. (NOTE: It would be helpful for you to do the Cabbage Soup Diet at least once before attempting a fast, because it is a great detoxification program) Don’t give up your fast just because you experience symptoms of detoxification! It is actually good news. It means your body is getting rid of the junk. · You might want to eat a salad or steamed vegetables, then take a warm bath, before going to bed on the eve of your fast. This jumpstarts your body’s cleansing processes. · Eat healthy foods for several days prior to your fast. · Don’t gorge yourself on junk food the night before. · You might consider purchasing one of the 48-hour diet juices for some (but not all) of your fasts. I’ve found that these lessen the possible side-affects of fasting, especially headaches. · If you have a juicer, you can consume a small amount of fresh vegetable juices. · Drink at least ½ gallon of water; preferably 1 gallon per day. · You may add a little fresh lemon or a small amount of cranberry juice concentrate (available at health food stores) to your water. · The day after your fast, try to eat healthy and light. For breakfast, you might start with fresh fruits, then a salad for lunch. Resist the temptation to eat starchy or sugar-laded foods, as these will undo the health benefits of your fast. · If a complete fast is not possible, you may consider a partial fast. For example, fast from solids, restricting yourself to liquids such as protein shakes, fruit juice, soup, etc. (I often do this type of fast.) Or you might fast from a food group or favorite food. · If your doctor advises against any form of fasting from food, consider alternative fasts, such as “fasting” from TV, the internet, telephone, music, reading (other than your Bible), etc. · Prepare your family’s meals in advance; crock pot meals are wonderful because you can throw the food in and forget it. Your family can serve themselves without too much involvement on mom’s part. Pray for your family while they enjoy their meals. When I am fasting, I often use mealtimes to read aloud to my children. · Keep your schedule light, if at all possible. Run errands in advance, put your household in good order by getting ahead of schedule on chores, etc. · Enlist your family’s support. Explain to them why you are fasting. Ask them to pray for you and not tempt you with food offerings. · You can be certain the Enemy of your soul will do everything in his power to dissuade you from fasting. He knows you are about to tap into some powerful spiritual resources. Be determined, in advance, to resist every temptation he will send your way. From the book, Becoming The Woman I Want to Be: A 90-Day Journey to Renewing Your Spirit, Soul and Body. Bethany House Publishers, January 2004. |
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