“The best of all medicines is resting and fasting.”
Fasting may or may not be appropriate for you. Check with a physician first (see disclaimer)
Fasting doesn’t sound very pleasurable or easy when first considered although it is becoming more mainstream now. If you are “sick” you may wish to read up on the benefits of fasting to the immune system and the way fasting can be integrated into healing programs.
Some quick facts –
There are many different types or definitions of fasting but in general it’s the absence of anything but water. Personally I do not count coffee (with coconut milk only) and many references will allow broth and some “fats” for longer fasts.
Again, this goes by many names, bust is essentially an eating pattern where you cycle between periods of eating and fasting.
For me it is limiting calorie intake and how many hours a day you allow yourself to eat in (and avoid snacks and drinks with calories).
Be warned: It works best when you eat real food – you can’t fast off a Big Mac.
Depending on your appetite, exercise regime and current practices you may want to start slowly by, for example, just getting used to eating properly three times a day with 4-5 hours between meals and no snacks.
My “usual” day is a late morning brunch – often a large mixed salad with seafood and egg, lots of oil. Maybe a handful of nuts (macadamia, cashew and almonds) in the afternoon and then an evening meal (by 7pm if I can) – so my typical fasting window (or restricted eating period) is around 16 hours.
I have done one extended fast of around 68 hours and plan more of around the same period. I am interested in learning more about the “immune system reset” that is supposed to accompany this type of longer fast. I completed this at home with no supervision and worked, exercised as usual.