Fasting - healthful or harmful?
When exploring dietary therapy, the topic of fasting may come up. Fasting has been considered a healing practice by traditional cultures for centuries.
When fasting, the body takes a break from digesting food. This throws the body into an imbalance, which accelerates the removal of toxins and other unnecessary substances. Fasting is mostly appropriate for those experiencing sensations of heaviness and being “stuck”. In Chinese medicine, diseases caused by excess and/or stagnation can indicate the need to fast. Often, people with acute illnesses will also naturally fast.
Robust people with a strong build and overweight people are better candidates for fasting.
Those who are malnourished and/or weak should not attempt a liquids-only fast. If they desire to fast, they can follow a special bean and rice diet or a Kitchari fast, which will provide nourishment during detoxification. Cooked vegetables and small amounts of animal protein will also be beneficial.
Another group of individuals that may not benefit from a fast are those with nervous system disorders like anxiety or nervousness. Food plays an important role in grounding these individuals. If they choose to fast, including meat broths or some fish in the fast is recommended.
Types of Fasts
There are many different kinds of fasts. Here are just a few:
-Absolute fast: refraining from eating or drinking anything.
-Intermittent fast: only eating during a timeframe (ie. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
-Partial fast: omitting particular foods or drinks from the diet (no sweets, no salt, etc.)
-Water fast: only consuming water during a set period of time.
-Kitchari fast: only consuming Kitchari for a set period of time.
Kitchari is an Ayurvedic dish often eaten to reset the digestive system. A Kitchari fast is recommended for those who tend to run underweight, have blood sugar imbalances, or have nervous disorders like anxiety and nervousness.
The benefits of fasting go beyond relieving physical ailments.
Most people experience emotional changes while fasting, or will fast when feeling emotional. Someone who is grieving may naturally fast, which can symbolize the release of old attachments.
People in search of spiritual "enlightenment" may choose to fast (consider the meaning of word enlighten - to lighten.)
Preparing for a Fast
Above all, fasting requires planning and setting an intention. The discipline it takes to conduct a fast is essential. Since there will likely not be any consumption of food, it is often best for someone fasting to refrain from heavy work routines and focus on resting and cleansing the body, mind, and spirit.
Take time off from existing in the outside world- let your trusted loved ones know that you are undergoing a fast and how they can best support you.
Give yourself a few days before your fast to ease into clean eating. Dramatically going from eating a Standard American Diet to suddenly consuming nothing could lead to negative reactions. Start by incorporating more whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and grains. Gently wean from 3 meals, to 2, 1, etc. It is often appropriate to seek the advice of a qualified medical practitioner when undergoing a fast, especially if you rely on medication.
Fasting, when done correctly, can provide a handful of health benefits. Be sure to set yourself up for success by planning the details of your fast and taking time off from work and/or strenuous and stressful responsibilities.
If you’re considering whether a fast may be appropriate for you from a Chinese medicine perspective, I’d be happy to connect with you and hear your thoughts. Book your 15-minute free consultation and let’s talk.
Sending healing Qi,
Meghane Hernandez, Maui Acupuncturist and Herbalist
