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How to Fast Improve Your Health

  • October 18, 2016

The body of evidence in support of fasting continues to grow. This trend is no doubt a positive one but it also makes it increasingly difficult to navigate this important subject. A number of widely disparate practices fall under the umbrella of “fasting” and the benefits they provide can vary.

Business Insider recently covered this topic and provided a breakdown of the most common forms of fasting. Not everyone responds the same to the various modes of fasting. I recommended water fasting to my landscaper, but after three days she felt really fatigued. While this is a normal response in the initial stages, I made her a "fat-bomb drink," which perked her right back up. I use Pau d'arco tea as the base. This is not an unusual situation. Adding healthy fats such as butter, coconut oil, MCT oil and avocado can enhance the fasting experience.

While much of the population would benefit from fasting, there are several absolute contraindications. You should not fast if you are underweight, malnourished, or pregnant or breast feeding. Children should not fast for more than 24 hours. If you are on medication you should be cautious about fasting, as some need to be taken with food.

Intermittent fasting is an excellent dietary practice. Typically, you consume all of your meals within a six- to seven-hour window. Scheduling meals will quickly become second nature, but what you consume is just as important. Removing grains and sugar from your diet can pay immediate dividends. The end goal should be to consume only whole and healthy foods. For additional dietary information you can consult my beginner nutrition plan.