Fasting, in its simplest definition, is giving up anything for a specific period of time.

Typically, we think of fasting as is in giving up food or water as in a fasting diet. In

this regard, there are basically three types of fasts: a total fast in which you give up

all food and water, a water fast, in which you give up all food and drink only water,

and a juice fast, in which you give up solid foods but drink only fresh juices.

There are different reasons for fasting as well. The three main reasons for fasting

are:

1. Weight loss. This type of fasts has the end goal of losing weight. If you take in

less calories than you burn, the end result should be weight loss. So if you give up

solid foods for let’s say a week or so, and drink only juice and water, you should be

able to lose a fair amount of weight. This is the theory behind weight-loss fasting.

Obviously, weight-loss fasting should not be attempted, or started, without first

consulting a medical professional.

2. Religion. Most religious texts including the Bible, refer to fasting and prayer.

Fasting, is a way to show obedience and faithfulness to God. When we fast, we are

sacrificing our carnal instinct to heat and drink. This is pleasing to God. Also, when

we fast, it alters our mind. This is said by some to cause a deeper relationship with

God. In the Old Testament, many times God’s chosen people were called to fasting

and prayer. There are many examples where God answered the prayers of his

people when they fasted and pray to him.

3. Health. They held fast typically involves either a water fast or a juice fast. With

this type of fast, solid foods are given out for a set period of time sometimes as

long as several weeks. The only substance allowed to enter the body would be pure

water or fresh juices. This has the healthful benefit of cleansing

the body and eliminating toxins that have built up in the intestinal tract. When water

fasting, typically distilled water is used. Never use faucet or tap water when water

fasting. Tap water contains harmful chemicals that can cause more damage when

you are fasting. This is because the only liquid entering the body is water it is

assimilated very quickly. This causes the harmful chemicals to be rapidly absorbed

as well. Distilled water contains no harmful chemicals or bacteria and in fact, can

pull harmful toxins out of the body.

Whatever the reason, fasting can be a healthy choice for your body, soul, and mind.

Whether your goal is weight-loss, health, or a deeper relationship with God, a fast

can be a beneficial activity to try. The most important thing about fasting, is to not

give up. The first couple of hours of fast are the most difficult ones. Even two to

three hours without food can seem like an eternity we are used to eating at any

time. We live in a society where food is easily and readily available. When we deprive

our bodies of this food, it can cause severe mental distress. However, the body will

adjust to your fast. Just give it time and remember that your mind is what is craving

the food. Your body can survive several days without food. Once you get past this

initial thought, your fast can be an enjoyable and healthful benefit.

Dean Novosat writes about health issues. His current website is http://www.fastinglife.com.

Tags: intestinal tract, religious texts, fruit and vegetable juices, fresh fruit and vegetable, first consulting

Filed under: Fasting

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