Posted on 07/04/2006 4:54:07 AM PDT by Reaganesque
If you were to ask Diane Wilson, who has done 7 long-term fasts, "What do I need to do to fast?" her response would probably be, "Just Stop Eating!"
But if that still leaves you with more questions on fasting, here are some "fast tips".
How long am I supposed to fast?
We ask anyone who wants to take part in the fast to dedicate at least 24 hours. Any additional days are great. And if you are interested in long-term fasting, we recommend 2 weeks or more.
Where should I fast?
You can join us in fasting in Washington, DC or in your own home or out in your community. You can fast as an individual, or organize a rolling fast (each one taking one day) in a public place such as a congressional office, a recruiting station, a federal building or a church. You should also make sure people know that you're fasting and why, and if possible, use the time to talk to people about the war. (You can buy a Troops Home Fast t-shirt or button from the CODEPINK store, or just make something yourself.)
If you live outside the United States, we encourage you to fast on July 4th outside a U.S. Embassy or consulate.
If I'm fasting for 24 hours, what should I do?
All you need to do if you are participating in the 24-hour fast is to stop eating and drink only water. It is recommended that you drink at least 2 liters of water that day to keep hydrated.
What types of fasts are there?
There are many different types of fasting, but the two main types that we're suggesting people to do are juice and water fasts. A juice fast consists of only drinking liquids, and a water fast consists of only drinking water. If you are worried about a particular health issue, you can modify the fast by periodically eating slices of avocado and banana, or doing what is feasible for you.
What do I do before I fast?
The key to preparing for a fast is staying hydrated. Drink a lot of water the day before you fast and when you eat your final pre-fast meal, have normal size portions and try to eat carbohydrates like potatoes or noodles instead of proteins or fats. The carbohydrates bond with the water that your body will be able to "drink" when you begin your fast.
Any tips for people doing a water-only fast?
Drink about 2 liters of water a day. If you are doing a long-term fast, you might add electrolytes to the water. Electrolytes are ions that your body needs and usually gets from sodium found in the regular foods we eat. There are different types of electrolytes that provide your body with natural chemicals that it needs to function.
Electrolytes can be lost mainly through sweat, which is why most sports drinks contain them. Some bottle waters have electrolytes added to them, like Smart Water by Glaceau, or you can buy Alacer Emergen C powder to add to your water (it comes in different flavors and is packed with essential vitamins).
If I'm doing a long-term juice only fast, what can I drink?
If you decide to make your own drinks from fruits and vegetables, make sure not to mix the two (make drinks only out of fruit or only out of vegetable). Also be sure to strain the juice before drinking it. It is also suggested to occasionally dilute your juices with water, especially those high in sugar. A list of recommended liquids is listed below.
What if I normally drink coffee or tea?
Drinking coffee or caffeinated tea while fasting is dehydrating and not recommended. If you are fasting for several days or more, you should cut back on caffeinated beverages before you fast because caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches. Herbal tea is okay to drink if you are doing a juice fast.
Can I drink beer or alcohol while fasting?
Alcohol and beer, like coffee, contribute to dehydration. Drinking alcohol while fasting places more stress on the body than it typically would when eating solid foods. It also increases its harmful effects on the liver when that is all the body is processing.
Who shouldn't fast?
Almost anyone can participate in a juice fast, but the fast should be modified for those with hypoglycemia, diabetes, hypo thyroid, and Wilson's Syndrome. People with these conditions can eat slices of avocado and banana every few hours, add high quality vegetable source protein powder to juices, and add psyllium or another good bulking agent to juices twice a day to regulate blood sugar levels. Do not undertake a juice fast if you have impaired kidney function.
It is not advised to partake in a water fast if you have hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, schizophrenia, or a chronic heart condition. It is always good to consult your family doctor before beginning an extended fast.
How do I end the fast?
When ending your fast, remember to not overload on food during your first solid meal, especially junk food! For any type of fasting, you will want to ease back into solid foods. Make sure to start out with healthy foods focusing on raw fruits and vegetables, and make sure portions aren't huge. If you're finishing a water fast, begin by drinking juices and then gradually move up to small portions of food.
Suggested Liquids:
* water (with electrolytes, ex. Smart Water by Glaceau or add Emergen C)
* fruit juices (occasionally diluted with water, ex. orange, apple, grape)
* self-made fruit or vegetable drinks
* herbal tea
* coconut water (highly suggested)
* vegetable broth
* barley green
* wheat grass juice
Liquids to avoid:
* beer and alcohol
* coffee
words fail
Fasting is 'water only'.
I haven't eaten yet today, am I fasting?
Well then, I must fast for at least 8 or 9 hours everyday. I should make those hours count and stand for something!
My understanding of the concept is that you don't eat or drink for a period of time (usually 24hrs.)
By the way, if you're wondering what they mean when they say "long term fast", they mean 2 weeks or more. The woman referenced in the first line of the article as an exemplar, her longest fast was for 31 days. That's a decent time period but I sincerely doubt that this fast will go beyond 2 weeks if it lasts that long.
Sounds like a "motivating" diet plan for some. I mean.. aren't the same groups against obesity, too?
You sure are. But don't forget the eggs, sausage, and bacon when you "break-fast".
I'm going the steak and taters route this morning and then the big grill fest this afternoon.
Fasting for one's own mental state is probably a good idea. People doing it for the purpose of making a statement against "The Man" are idiots.
It's akin to holding your breath until you pass out. It accomplishes nothing but a headache.
How about a steak and potato frappe?
They are practicing to observe Ramadan when they reveal the fact that they are in-the closet Muslims.
Sounds complicated, I think I'll just grill some steaks tonight instead.
This fast could make you fat!
I recommend a pitcher of good ole' "Jonestown Koolaide" . They can all hitch a ride to Heavensgate .
About two months about right.
I like your idea. Can you imagine Cindy Sheehan, Susan Sarandon, Diane Wilson, The Baldwin boys, that screeching singer whats'ername,you know the one with the horrible looking nose. All standing together blowing themselves up. What a great statement that would make.
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