How Much Weight Can One Lose by Fasting?

Fasting can result in weight loss---in fact, it usually does. When you take in few or no calories, your body continues to need energy and will rely on your reserved calories/energy, which generally equals weight loss. But there are important facts you need to know about fasting, its effect on your body, and your weight.

What Is Fasting & Why Do People Fast?

While it is not endorsed by the American Medical Association or others in the healthcare field, many individuals use fasting to achieve a variety of goals that include weight loss, cleansing, mental well-being and spiritual or religious needs. Fasting can mean the absence of all food and drink (except water, which the body absolutely needs and should never be deprived of) or certain foods can be included in the fast, such as lemon juice with maple syrup. This fast is called the Master Cleanse (see Resources). Other fasting recipes and suggestions can be found online and in alternative medicine and homeopathic books.

The overall idea of fasting is to eliminate food from one's diet for a set length of time.

What Can Fasting Do?

Fasting can affect the body in many ways. By not eating, the body must rely on stored energy, which can result in weight loss. Fasting is also thought by some to have a purifying or cleansing effect. Fasting has been said to purge the body of toxins, intestinal waste, metals, bacteria and other undesired materials. It has also been purported to relieve stress, fatigue, aches and pains, while some say fasting provides energy, along with mental well-being and clarity.

How Do You Start a Fast?

Try not to eat heavy or rich food right before a fast. Fruits and veggies are better foods to eat before fasting as they are easier for the body to eliminate, which can make your fast more productive. Plan your fast and decide what you will allow yourself (only water, or water + juice, etc.) and also decide how many days you plan to fast. Make sure your schedule allows for fasting---for example, if you are about to embark on a vacation, you'll probably not want to begin a fast.

How Long Should I Fast?

It is entirely up to the individual, as there is no set length one has to fast. You can fast for a day or two, or a week or more---whatever suits your personal goals. Most health and medical references recommend limiting a fast to 10 days or less, to be safe (especially if health problems or conditions are a factor).

During a fast, if you feel weak, disoriented or faint, you should resume eating immediately.

Surviving a Fast & Cleansing Tips.

Even a one- or two-day fast may have healthful benefits---but be prepared for hunger, at least initially. Eating regularly is not only a necessity, it's also a habit. At mealtimes or when you see others eating, you may feel hunger that can be part physiological and part psychological. We're humans---not only do we eat to live, we often live to eat. But try to stick to your fasting goals so you can enjoy the benefits derived, and the sense of accomplishment once it's done.

If cleansing or purging your body of waste is part of your reason for fasting, consider using a laxative to speed up elimination. You can use an over-the-counter formula, or take a more homeopathic approach with a salt-water flush (see Resources) or an herbal laxative (found at health stores and some drugstores). Follow the directions carefully, and don't overdo it---you could deplete your body of too much fluid and/or electrolytes.

Ending a Fast.

End your fast carefully. This is not the time for bacon cheeseburgers and milkshakes. Your digestive system has been quietly resting, so immediately forcing it to work overtime processing rich, heavy food can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Break your fast by drinking fruit juices (real 100 percent juice---avoid the sugar-added variety and squeeze your own if possible) and eating fresh fruits and veggies. Then work your way up to whole grains and starches and, lastly, proteins and dairy products.

Will I Lose Weight?

You will almost surely lose weight. The amount depends on your starting weight, your gender, your metabolism and other conditions. Some lose a pound a day or more, some lose less.
However, the initial weight lost while fasting is generally fluid, also known as "water weight." Even though you're still drinking water, you're not taking in the fluid weight of the food you'd normally be eating. You essentially lose mass in your bodily tissues, but this balance is restored as soon as you end the fast and resume eating. Any weight loss you experience will only be temporary, unless you continue to modify your caloric intake in the weeks that follow. This is why some consider fasting a good starting point for dieting, to jump-start weight loss and get immediate gratification---which helps motivate you to keep dieting.

Resources

• The Master Cleanse website
• Salt Water Flush