How to Make Fasting Work for You

Are you fasting throughout March? Is it working out for you? Have you fasted in the past, but it hasn’t worked for you? Do you have questions about fasting and your body?

What is fasting?

Fasting is the practice of abstaining from certain foods or drinks for specific periods. You can choose intermittent fasting—eating only at certain times of the day to increase fasting in between meals—or you might prefer fasting from particular foods (think chocolate, sweets, or alcohol), or simply eat only vegetables while fasting.

Does fasting suit everyone?

Yes and no. If you have any preexisting medical conditions, you have to speak to your doctor before you embark on a serious fast. However, slightly changing your diet such as fasting from chocolate, crisps, or alcohol, shouldn’t need prior approval from your doctor, as you’re not actually making a significant change to your diet and you will keep eating. 

If you are a healthy individual, you should be able to fast and your body cope well with it. 

However, not all types of fasting are equally pleasant, and if you feel that total fasting all foods doesn’t suit your type of body or simply sounds too extreme, you can start with having vegetable-only days. Vegetables don’t put any pressure on your system and can thus be used liberally when fasting. You can make delicious soups and vegetable stews that will do you the world of good – they fill you up, are super tasty and will also nourish your body. 

What to Expect When You Start Fasting

Your body will quickly adapt to the new feeding regime. Some symptoms may be uncomfortable, such as intense food cravings, while others will be more welcome, such as a clearer mind.

You might experience intense cravings for the foods you’re abstaining from, which tend to be worst during the first three days but will ease afterwards. You might also feel light-headed or dizzy if you’re reducing your calorie intake significantly.

Once the cravings subside—and sometimes sooner—you can expect to feel better overall.

I Want to Fast – How Do I Best Start?

• Choose the right time. If you’re entering a busy period at work or training towards a specific gym goal, it might not be the right time to fast. Instead, pick a week when you know you can take it easier and relax.
• Be prepared. Remove temptation by clearing your space of any food you plan to avoid. Give it away, throw it out, or pass it on.
• Expect to feel tired. Starting your fast over a weekend can help, allowing you additional rest.
• Stay hydrated. Always carry bottles of fresh water or herbal teas and drink at least 2–3 litres per day.

I have fallen off the bandwagon, can I get back on?

Yes of course you can! The most important thing to remember when fasting is that you’re doing it for yourself. Be kind to yourself, forgive yourself for your mistakes. Instead, praise yourself for taking the right steps towards being a healthier you. Review the type of fasting you have tried, does it suit you? Maybe you need to make changes to how you fast.

Fasting doesn’t make me feel good—is fasting for me?

The mind is willing, but the flesh is weak. The truth is, while we might have wonderful plans for fasting and great expectations, it may work differently than anticipated or not at all. Be kind to yourself and choose a fasting method suitable for you:

• Try intermittent fasting, where you fast overnight for 10–12 hours.
• Introduce a vegetarian day once per week, where you eat only soups and vegetable stews—even for breakfast!
• Choose the right time to start your fast, allowing yourself plenty of rest.