Please post your fasts here or in “Fasting Progress Reports” The “Fasting Club” page is a place to share with other fasters. Fasting is a bit like climbing a mountain. You need some knowledge and training. And like mountain climbing …. falling off is painful and occasionally needs an emotional rescue.
Feel free to post, emotions, events, and personal stuff as these small images give new user windows into the world of fasting that makes it real to them and what seems impossible becomes doable.
If you want to have a “user pic” beside your comments, just log in and click on your name at the top right, upload the pic and then click the update profile. It is nice to see who you are chatting with. Feel free to offer advice, or challenge other opinions as this site is an open forum to share ideas and knowledge to further the science of fasting.
Tom,
Wanted to post on day 30 of the apple/water 40.
This has been a good last 20 days for me. No dizziness like I had in the early years. At this point there are no open cuts or scraps to heal and skin is not too dry. I’ve lost 29 pounds which is normal for me (139#). However the back of my throat feels dry and rough. The tongue is still coated, so is this dehydration or toxins making an exit?
One emotional change that I experience is the lack of fear.
Approaching situations that would normally make me uptight mean nothing to me. I have to watch my driving because I feel no consern when I’m on the road. I have chosen not to ride my motorcycle due to this. I also speak my mind rather than just let it pass. This has got me into trouble a couple of times with my wife of 34 years.
As for time, it seems to stand still. I don’t think of the past and feel no need to look to tomorrow. I think this is why it only seems like I started this fast this morning and don’t even think about 10 more days. And I know if I weren’t fasting I’d think differently. Is this normal? I told you earlier I’ve never had anyone to bounce these thoughts off of who understood fasting.
Bless you and all you help,
Pastor Jim
Hi Pastor Jim,
The experience of “time standing still’ is common but coined with different words like “sense of just being.” feeling like being an observer.”
Or your brain is burning ketones and getting you high. LOL
Either way enjoy the ride.
Confidence or increased faith and determination, usually comes with an “energy peak” after a detox crisis or prolonged juice or water fasting.
A green, yellow, white coated tongue is cause by detoxification in almost everyone who fasts.
Thanks Tom—I plan on using this forum as “checking in” if you will..so I will be weighing Sun AM and posting my loss for the week. SO let me understand, it is OK to continue with the supplements while juicing? OK, great. 60 days would be wonderful. I am determined to do this. My breasts have eased up noticeably just in the last 24 hours. Do you have any info on fibrocystic breast condition Tom? YOUR WEBSITE ROCKS!
Is reverse osmosis water of? It has its own faucet that was installed in our kitchen. I was going to put in a ceramic mug and put in microwave for the lemon water, then thought, maybe the microwave wasnt a good idea?
AGAIN THANKS–and curious if you have ANY info on the Fibro breasts….I have no histroy in my family, mother is 61 and grandmother is 88—and I AM DETERMINED to never suffer from that dreadful cancer.
THANKS, JOdi
sorry, meant to ask is reverse osmosis water OK?
also, how much juice is good? my mason jar is i think 12 ounces??? and i have 1 in the am and one at work (packed on ice) then i take it out and let get to room temp and drink it BUT i have to admit, by the time i get ome from work, i do not feel like cleaning it and put in dishwahser and then just have some tea….so only getting 24 or so ounces a day? What do you think Tom?
Thanks again, Jodi
Hello everyone,
No more antibiotics! (Stupid deer tick.)
I can start my fast back up, and I’m so happy. I am amazed at how fast I re-gained weight, even without eating too much evil stuff. For people fasting to lose weight (not me, though I suppose it doesn’t hurt), beware of this, after your fast.
I’ll do a juice/water cross, like before. One thing I’ve found works in an pinch is juicing limes and lemons, putting them in an ice cube tray, and freezing it. Then I toss them into my water throughout the day. It’s not as good as drinking right after juicing, but works when I’m busy.
It’s been wonderful reading your testimonials. Good to be back among you.
–rhet
Pastor Jim,
I just saw your piece about time standing still. This really happens intensely for me. Sometimes it’s unpleasant, because I feel restless and anxious. I keep trying to tell myself to let the “time standing still” factor work FOR me.. when fasting, the passing of time is really your friend.
I hope the fearlessness comes to me like it did for you. One time when I was on antidepressants (I was working way up north and the no-light situation made me want to sleep for weeks) I felt fearless (and kind of reckless), but they gave me headaches, so I got off them.
Hopefully I can get the courage aspect from fasting.
Thanks for sharing.
–rhet
i really enjoy that detached, free-floating feeling you get sometimes. seems to help me back away and look at life in a more objective way. great for decision making, planning, reprioritizing, ect. glad i can see others feel it too when they fast.
Is it unsafe to fast when you’re underweight? Not severely underweight lets say 103lb’s and 5’4 would it be dangerous?
How much weight would be lost in a 14 day water fast?
Will it be easy to regain weight after?
Should I gain weight first and then fast?
I would be thankful for any advice.
Hi Question,
Weight loss is complex, and never accurate.
Fasting is usually safe if broken correctly and the prefast diet had sufficient nutrition.
Why are you fasting?
Regain??? have you been losing weight?
Rhet & Tom,
Thank you for sharing. I don’t even share my experiences during a fast with my wife because, well, you’ve got to admit “floting, time standing still, observing” sounds a little out there. I always get the feeling no body knows I’m there when I walk into a Walmart, ect.. I have likened days 30-40 in some aspects to my earlier days without Christ in the early 70′s. No disrespect but you know what I mean.
I’ll post again on day 39.
Bless you,
Pastor Jim
Hi Everyone,
I will be having gallbladder surgery scheduled for April 17th and I really feel the need to fast(I have been feeling really down lately). I have done a 5 day juice fast before and had great results. Should I wait until after my surgery to do a 10 day fast? Is it safe to do so before the surgery?
Hi Renata,
I always recommend 3 to 5 days of juice fasting before and after surgery. Longer is better. It will reduce, post surgery complications and speed recovery. If this operation is for gall stones, try the gall bladder flush.
Hi Tom, Can you give me an idea of how much juice is the best perday??? Thanks in advance-
Also, is reverse osmosis water OK?
Thank you, JOdi
You can download a free ebook on fasting at http://www.NaturalBodyHealth.com Might help you.
Hi, Tom! I stumbled across your site and became immediately interested in trying juice fasting. I have never fasted before and currently work at a job which requires me to constantly be on my feet (often running around), so a water fast would be unwise for me right now. I am a criminal justice major at the moment and hope to become a homicide detective for a major police department, so I think the weight loss would give me a real boost in the right direction. I experienced depression for several years and really let myself go, so I am sadly thirty or so pounds overweight. I am also interested in attempting the fast for health reasons: I suffer from fibromyalgia and IBS. I have a few questions for you based on this:
1. I noticed that you told one person with IBS to start with two enemas for the first day, one per day for the next two days, and one every other day after that. Are there any additional suggestions you would give for fibromyalagia?
2. Do you have a recommendation on which juicer I should purchase? I do not have that much money, but I really want to make the best of this experiment. If it works out well, then I would hope to do a thirty day fast once or twice a year after that. I really want to get some inspiration, so I feel motivated to work out and keep myself in shape again.
3. I would like to add a cup of tea to the juice fast. I am thinking one cup of loose leaf green tea before bed every night. Tea helps to relax my body and often puts me to sleep; plus, I know loose leaf green tea has tons of health benefits. Do you think this is wise, or should I stay away from tea entirely during the fast?
4. I would love to record my progress for you if you are interested. If so, then what kind of detail would you like me to record? Weight stats, possible side effects, highs and lows, juicing habits?
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this!
Hi Heide,
Greed tea is good during fasting. Sure record you data and we can give it a page. Juicers….. to many choices. Breville is the best for veggies and speed. The champion for durability. With IBS you want to have an enema daily and let the water in slowly, especially the first use. For fibromyalagia, take some essential oils, vitamin E, B complex, and other herbs recommended on the web.
Hi there! It has been 1 week yesterday that i started juice fasting. This morning I was down 10.5 pounds. I still feel a little sluggish. I have not had anything other than fresh juice, filtered water with orgainc lemons all day (work), organic, caffeine free herbal tea. NOT ONE CHEAT. I am ver proud of myslef and can only really share with husband and YOU ALL. I chose not to talk about it to others because they can be not so supportive. I NEED FEEDBACK please. AM I heading in the right direction?
I was thinking this morning of the lady in Florida a few years ago who suffered a stroke and was kept on life support. SHe was an avid dieter and suffered a stroke from not enoough potassium i believe? Is this something to be concerned with?
THANKS, Jodi (10 pounds lighter in 1 week)
Hey Jodi–
Congrats on your amazing progress! Terri Shiavo was a bulimic. Very stressful, very dangerous. She was not fasting, far as I know.
If you’re worried about electrolytes, drink Glaceau SmartWater. But the lemon water you are drinking should give you a lot of what you need, especially if you don’t go past 15-20 days, as I understand it.
Coffee is still my terrible bane. I know it’s hurting my fast. I know I shouldn’t. I know I’m “feasting” on the nasty stuff (or it’s feasting on me). I’ve banished myself to Day 1 status, but after this, I’ve decided not to do that if I break down and drink coffee or diet soda (I know, sad) again, but I’m recording it whenever I do it. (I also put AlkaPro drops in, to cut the acid. Does help.) I want to mindfully stop. If I slip, I’ll record it and keep working on it.
Which brings me to the real story. Which is that whenever I fast, I’m made hyper-aware of what a pathetic bag of chemicals my body is. I’m addicted to everything. Not just coffee. Chocolate. Meat. When my girlfriend is away, I get anxious. I physically miss my dogs when they are not there! Just wow.
Mind over matter? Hah! So I’m waiting for that stillness, that detachment, that strength that Pastor Jim talks about, to arrive. Trying to do the Buddhist thing and watch the thoughts go by, watch the hunger storms, watch the body panic, the nausea, the chills. Not get too involved.
I feel weak and will-less. Trying not to get too attached to that feeling either. I’m wondering if this spoiled four-year old that is my fasting body is a uniquely American thing. Hmm.
Hope you all are having a less tantrummy day than me.
–rhet
Thanks so much for responding Rhet, I am waiting for the “coldness” to go away! I swear I am freezing all of the time. Is this somewhat normal? cold hands, feet, yikes. I tell myself everyday, tonight I am going to go home and get on the treadmill. Ask me how many times I have this week–0! I just do not feel like it. In your experience, how much juice is “good”. Right now I am drinking out of a mason jar I brought to work packed on ice, then I take it out about an hour before and let it become room temp. I think it is 12 ounces, but i fill to the rim so it is at least 14 ounces and I had similar this morning. I am already tired of cleaning the juicer though! So sometimes at night I just have my hot tea wich soothes me but does not motivate me to get moving. Do I need more juice? Tom sai I could go 60 days. (wow) I am 5’3″ and 239 (now) I had a terrible pregnancy in 2005 and never lost the weight. BTW I am addicted to Starbucks. I miss it but have not had it in over a month. Caffeine flares up pain in my breasts so I avoid caffeine. Again, thanks so much. Reading the posts throughout the day while I am at work (even though I should not be) helps so much…..Have a good one Rhet!
Jodi
Hi Jodi
Cold hand and feet are normal making it hard to fast in cold climates. Tiredness is also normal. Usually you will get more energy as the fast progresses. Yes usually the more juice you drink the more energy you have.
Hi Tom,
I am on the lemon and cayenne fast day 23. I did this to allow time for my body to heal athritis and tinnitus. I have been 40 lbs over weight. Yes I lost weight but the good news is I don’t take pain meds after day 2. I have no hunger.
The question is I still have swollen hands and lots of conjestion, my gums hurt electrical feeling when I brush my teeth. This concerns me but I am willing to continue to day 30 and beyond for the sake of healing
thanks
Bear
Hi Bear,
Shift to juice, use carrot, beet, lemon, apple celery, garlic and pineapple. It is more effective for healing.
Hi All-
Its been a few days but I have been reading all of your posts. very energizing!
Jody-
I have done lots of research of lots of types about breast conditions and have had a bi-lateral masectomy by the one of the best cancer center teams in the county. Everything in my personal experience and my research experience says that caffine is a big risk for someone with fibrostistic brests. If you can, try one or 2 less starbucks a day. I cut caffiene out completly many years ago for this problem (and chocolate)and the condition completly went away. I also love a good cup of coffee, but nt worth the pain, and ultimate worry, and subsequent biopsies etc.
Good luck to you all! I will check in next week!
Thanks Jessica, Yes Caffeine is something I have been struggling with since 2006…I will do excellent for a couple of months, then 1 good coffe puts me over the edge and im hooked again..I have not had any caffeine in over a month. My breast problems go further than that…I have been miserable for 2 days now, and been juice fasting since March 15. I take so many supplements its crazy. Nothing seems to help. Thanks anyways, Jodi
Jodi-
How about Yoga? I am usually a runner, but don’t usually have the energy when I fast. I make myself herbal tea at night and do Yoga. Patricia Walden does a great Yoga for beginners called PM Yoga. It is very relaxing and always helps me with improving my mental state. I also often feel ‘miserable’ when I am fasting, but the effects soon go away…Mango juice also helps me feel lighter and happier, like I am filling my body with a little sunshine.
Be well,
Jessica
Tom
You mean combine all that you recommended and drink only that?
My swelling is slowly going down and I just rub my gums but they feel Ok. I thought to go for the full 30 days. I’ve been working the fast dry brushing, rebounding,and receiving shiatzu, also self massage…plenty of prayer and meditation.
I only have 6 more days till 30 days and it would be an accomplishment! I thought to break it with fresh organic OJ and a steamed veggie soup after 5 days of OJ.
Actually I’d prefer to introduce veggie juices. The past 4 days I’ve added spiralina and chlorella.
I am getting proper nutriants. I don’t think I was as effective the first 20 days because I wasn’t using a laxative tea then added one. But I have been drinking the full quart of salt water every morning. I take it easy and rest alot.
thanks for your help. I’m a 60 year young female who began with 193lbs and now I am down to under 175
Bear
BACK ON BOARD FRIENDS!!!! Work is draining, lots of changes are coming and I’m going to be faced with some pretty life altering decisions, fasting can help me reach a calm clearness that I need, I’ve done two five day fast since February, I’m ready to go longer, a clarity hit others around day twenty and based on the upcoming events I need to go for about 21-25 days, I’ll check in when I need to remember why I started. its 2:00pm I had a veggie soup and celery and carrots today. Tomorrow back on boiled veggie broth. Clarity God give me strength and clarity
Starting weight is 188
Hello everyone, I’m back on board!
I tried starting my fast over & over again at the start of february. After several tries of not making it through the first day, I started getting really embarrassed by my failures & gave up. I just started reading again & found that I’m not the only person on here repeating day 1 again & again. So thank you so much to everyone for sharing! I feel so much better knowing I’m not alone. I’m new to fasting & you all seem so strong! I’d breeze through the day until about 5 or 6pm. Then I’d let my cravings overpower me. I’d have a bowl of soup or something & decide I blew it. Then I’d binge until midnight since I already had to start over anyway – terrible, I know… Anyway, I’m back now & with The Good Lord on my side, nothing can stop me this time!
Plus I’d still be drinking plenty of plain water everyday as well.
So my plan is to juice fast for the remainder of this month, maybe snack on raw fruits or veggies the first few days if I need to – & Not binge if I do! Then starting on the 1st, go to a distilled water fast – maybe with lemon? & a cup or 2 of tea each day for the next 40 days. I like my tea just plain with no sweetners, I think that’s good? I have lots of green tea & I also have fasting tea with all sorts of good nutrients in it
How much juice should I drink? I was thinking maybe 1 or 2 cups a day in the beginning? In addition to plenty of water of course. Then maybe 1 cup a week throughout the rest of the fast? What do you guys think? Sound ok? Anybody?
Nikki
The secret to getting past day one of fasting is to drink volumes of fresh juice. Fill your stomach when you get hungry. Water works too.
The enema always works for me. Use it twice on day one. Drink as much or as little juice or water as you want.
Guys,
drinking juice, lemon in water, ‘special’ drinks with electrolytes added to them (Read: fake man-made chemicals that have no resemblence to the electrolytes found in food), artificial sweetners, teas, and worst of all coffee (a drug) is NOT fasting in any sense of the word. It’s an extremely low calorie diet, but it’s not fasting.
Fasting is when your body is getting 100% of its energy from its fat and protein reserves. Because there is nothing coming in, it is able to control and balance its internal nutritional reserves and run smoothly without food. As soon as you take something in, you upset that balance. For example refined products actually leach phosphates from the blood stream in order to be dealt with, that is, you lose vital nutrients by taking in these empty substances because it takes nutrition in order to be able to process nutrition.
Don’t think juices and sweetners and coffee are any different. Living on sugar (fruit juice) is highly demanding of your liver which HATES fructose (fructose is half the sugar in fruit and half the sugar in table sugar, and honey), it also turns on genes that in effect create more of a demand for protein, so you will be losing more muscle mass than fat than if you were water fasting. When scientists want to deliberately give rats diabetes, all they have to do is feed them a high fructose diet. Human livers and pancreatic cells respond similarly.
So by juicing you’re getting plenty of advantages from the low calorie aspect, which turn on all sorts of life-extending genes (FOXO, Autophagy) but you are countering a lot of those benefits with the high levels of fructose.
What no-one seems to understand, is that when you are fasting, you are living off animal fat and protein. Your body is catabolisng your flesh which has the exact same components as the flesh of any other mammal. You are essentially eating a carnivorous diet!! It’s the same with juice fasting or veganing where the calories are low enough to lose weight, your body needs fat and protein and it will continue to eat it and replace it with the carbs you are taking in, a balance can be reached where your weight stabalizes, but still you are eating staurated fat.
The truth is we a designed or evolved, whichever you like, to eat animal food as well as plant matter. We are omnivores. Our guts aren’t fermentation tanks like cows or horses, animal food is perfectly liquified and completely absorbed in the human intestine. When you fast, you are mimicking a carnivorous diet, and all the beneficial gene switching that goes with it. They are the same, only they are your own tissues, so you can get rid of your own wastes as well.
The science is out there and it supports fasting and calorie restriction, you just have to look hard enough.
Please see beyondveg.com if you are concerned about your health on a vegan diet. There are many many people who have turned their health around reintroducing meat into thier diet – or by fasting, temporarily giving themselves an animal feed using thier own tissues.
Another misconception; fruit is not natural in the slightest. It has been selectively bred over the last few hundred years to be sweeter and sweeter and now contains more sugar than any human or animal could possibly get from wild fruit. It is a packet of sugar in a decpetive guise. Nutrient levels are minimal compared to meat ‘n veg. harsh but true.
Oh and to the poster who was asking about loose skin – you shouldnt get it on a fast if you’re young. Thanks to autophagy, your cells consume damaged proteins as the fast progresses, and skin should shrink back fairly well, it always has in my experience. If you break and stay on a high carb/high fruit diet you will not only gain weight back just as quickly as if it were high fat (your cells insulin resistant so glucose gets immediately shuffled into fat cells)
you will also stretch your skin as it tries to expand and create nasty stretch marks and lose skin. Break on veges and/or home-made broth only, is my advice.
Thanks to all posters who report thier progress and results, this is what matters, not theory, not belief.
Hi Jo,
Good info. But I would challenge you on the fructose being bad as glucose is the preferred fuel of the body and fructose is low on the glycymic index. I agree that excessive sugar intake can damage or over work the pancreas. You states you will gain weigh on a high carb/high fruit diet. That depends on the fruit and the carbohydrate. Grapefruits are famous for weightloss.
hi jo,
some of what you shared really struck a cord in me. i was an avid juice faster in my early years. weeks on end. it did me some good for sure, but i never tried water fasting. well, 20 years later, i did a bout of short water fasts over a few months and wow. i know no one can speak for everyone since not everyone suffers insulin resistance like i have all my life (the juice fasting left me up and down, up and down because of the sugars),,,but the brief water fasting was amazing. i always shied away from water fasting because of work, commitments, but short water fasts have proven to be very effective for symptom relief (pms, blood sugar symptoms, weight loss). and well, it takes less time. i did get really exhausted toward the end of the months in regards to my workouts (even with a few eating days thrown in) but the quick, tangible results kept me going. water fasting may not be for everyone, but i wanted to put my “bravo!” in for it. if long term water fasting is too daunting , might be an intermittent water fasting schedule could work. i love the way some toss in a few water fasting days in their juice fasts, brilliant. for me at least short water fasts were more effective than long juice fasts. cheers everyone!
Hi Rachel,
We have successfully reversed diabetes here at the hospital with juice fasting. Patients are allowed half a glass of juice at least 30 minutes apart. The period for healing is 30 to 40 days. A straight juice fast does not work for diabetes as you have discovered.
Hi Jo,
“Animal protein,” fascinating, I’ve never viewed fasting that way. Very interesting. I have one of those minds that want to be vegan and one of those bodies that wants to be carnivorous. I like it.
I understand what you are saying about intake of anything but water–especially fruit and drugs like coffee and trash like diet sodas–is a form of “feasting,” not fasting proper.
That said, it sounds like some of your argument is a semantic issue, which is fine. Fasting or light “feasting” though, what little we do take in does matter. For some people, water fasting alone is so harsh they can’t do it for any length of time. For cancer patients, there must be a balance struck between giving the body the tools it needs to fight the cancer, and letting the fasting do its work.
Gandhi fasted for weeks but put some small amounts of lemon juice in his water. Every D.O., and nutritionist I’ve ever seen has recommended a slight amount of fresh lemon or lime in water while fasting, because of the detoxing and electrical properties.
Several have also recommended Glaceau SmartWater for fasting (NOT chemical and sugar-laden products like Gatorade, Vitamin Water, Life Water, etc). SmartWater is distilled water plus potassium bicarbonate; calcium chloride and magnesium chloride. (You can make your own sort-of similar brew at home with distilled water, sea salt and baking soda and such, if the thought of Coca-Cola now owning Glaceau makes you ill. It kind of does me.)
Not all sweeteners are the same, of course. Fructose messes with blood sugar, and artificial sweeteners (not stevia, which is officially listed as a non-caloric fiber) contain nasty chemicals. The alkaline nature of some juices and products can be incredibly beneficial, and some have VERY little fructose (spiralina, cucumber, celery, kale, spinach, radish, etc).
Anyway, I want to be careful not to minimize anyone’s exhaustive efforts by saying they aren’t REALLY fasting–this is why Tom specifies “water-only fast,” “dry fast,” “juice-fast,” etc.
I am now going to proudly tell my body it’s having a meat and fat dinner while I’m fasting. Sweet.
Hope everyone is doing well!
I don’t weigh (don’t have a scale), but I wear size 34 pants, pretty much (the shorts I’m in are 36′s, but I look like a JD or a plumber in them). I’ll let you know when I drop to a 32!
Best,
rhet
Thanks Tom! I was going to ask about enemas next. I’ve never used one before & I’m a little scared, lol. I was just going to ask about frequency. Twice on day 1, got it. After that not at all?
So far, so good. It’s getting to be “that time of day” the time I’m always hungriest & food sounds absolutely disgusting to me. Looks like I’m off to an excellent start! I think I’m really going to make it this time. keep your fingers crossed for me everyone!
success is in the details, thanks tom! thank God for experts like yourself!
Tom,
Wanted to post as I said I would on day 39 of the apple juice/water fast. Seems like this morning I just got started.
Started at 168# and lost 33#. Had no cuts to contend with for healing this year.
I told you I always wanted to do the last week of a 40 somewhere special. Listen to this! I live in Ohio U.S. and went to Illinois for a funeral. Yes it was neat to see teachers, principles, old friends, ect., but the timing was wonderful. I had a boldness to share Christ in a way I never have had. Due to the fast? Absolutely. For two days I drove around to find and speak to those I left 25 years ago. The greatest news was when I lead my father-in-law to the Lord!
Do I evangelize normally? Sure, but this was a wonderful trip without so much of self to get in the way.
Then I drove home and left 13 hours for West Virgina. There I worked 33 hours in two and a half days on a house hidden up in the mountains with a man as a mission project. The strength I had was unreal because usually during days 35-40 I’m pretty layed back and not doing much.
So I’m saying this year’s fast has really been different than in the past. Usually on the eve of day 40 I’ve had enough, but I wish this could go on. But as I practice and preach, there are ground rules to be set up prior to a fast and a planned ending is one of them.
Again I see clearly that when my flesh is beat into submission, the Spirit side has free reign to operate.
A simple truth but wonderful when it hits home in a fresh way.
Thank you, Ret, and others who have shared your wisdom to answer so many questions I have had about the 40 day fast.
One question that was not answered to my knowledge was conserning the sinuses. I am totally clear during fast but what can I do or leave out of my diet when I’m not fasting?
And why does a gritty substance form on the inside of my teeth as soon as I get around smoke, purfume, cleaners, dust, and other smells. I tast them on the tongue, but why does it collect on the teeth? I can feel it with my tongue. Anybody have this know what I’m saying?
Pastor Jim
Pastor Jim (and hi to all, as well),
What an inspiration you are! I know with your example and support I can make it to 40 days.
I really appreciate what you say about the flesh being forced to submit on a fast. It’s not just the hunger. It’s fear. It’s compulsive thinking. It’s compulsive behavior. It’s impatience. And it’s response to discomfort and pain.
And speaking of, this lemon/lime water I’m drinking is kind of doing a number on my digestive system, especially the “exit” part of the system. Like yeowch. I’ve ordered more AlkaPro drops, which is supposed to super-alkalize whatever you drink (I pray it doesn’t take the beneficial elements away from the lemon/lime), hopefully that will make a difference regarding the acid.
I also did one of those Master Cleanse “salt flushes” yesterday. Yecch! I can’t really bring myself to do the enema, but the salt flush is loosely called an “oral enema,” because it’s supposed to do a similar thing. And judging from the amount of porcelain throne time I spent, the advertising appears to be true. Tom, what do you think of the Sea Salt Flush?
Also, anyone out there doing bentonite and psyllium shakes? It’s supposed to push all the years of accumulated nasties out of the digestive tract and colon. Well, I ordered some bentonite, because a friend had awesome results with it. Tom, do you have thoughts about bentonite clay?
I’m getting a *little* better at ignoring the hunger storms, and promising myself that they will go away just as they would if I actually ate. I’m not one of those folks for whom the hunger ever goes away. I pretty much deal with it every day.
How is everyone doing?
–rhet
Hello. I am 34 and living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. In December I started methotrexate and was on the verge of starting a biologic drug to help with this arthritis when I spoke with a doctor who recommended I stop the drug therapy, drop my weight to 120 (148 now at 5 foot 5 inches) and do several short fasts, all with the aim of balancing my immune system.
So far, I’ve been off the MTX for almonst 3 weeks, I have completed two 3 day water fasts now that the MTX is out of my system and am gearing up for a 10 day water fast. I am wondering if anyone has experience with fasting and autoimmune disease. My greatest challenge is handling the arthritic pain and stiffness during the fasting since I cannot take the NSAID’s that keep things relatively manageable — I’m talking about not being able to button pants, clip my young child into his carseat, walk up and downstairs… sit on the toilet, etc. It’s debilitating and I am really nervous about the 10 day fast for that reason. Fortunately, my body has been telling me to fast for about 3 years (though I’ve only just started listening) — I have absolutely no appetite and the short fasts have so far been completely comfortable for me.
Any helpful advice or comments are welcome. Thank you.
- Sarah
Hi Sarah,
For health conditions, juice fasting is far more effective. 21 to 30 days is a better fast with some water fasting days in between. Buy a juicer and you will love it. Autoimmune disease is benefited by fasting as inflammatory response is reduced. I have see one person healed of a life long allergy on a 30 day juice fast.
Hi Tom please I will appreciate it if you answer my one question.I am going on a three week water fast and walking on the treadmill for an hour three times a week. How much weight do you think I will lose. I weight 185 pounds and I am 5 feet 10 inches tall. I have been having pain all over my body, fatigue,weight gain and depression,which are some the main reasons I am fasting. I need to do this and make it a life style too(healthy eating and fasting). Thank you.
Hi greatjassy,
Please read the post on weightloss rates, it is long and in depth. You need to read more on this site.
Water fasting and exercise… for 21 days on your first fast. That is a fantasy.
HI,Tom, I never said this was my first fast…it may be the first long water fast I will attempt and I just needed an answer for motivation from you. I am not a quitter and can accomplish a 21 day water fast!! Thanks for the “HUGE” help.
Hello everyone,
I am a 21 y/o female and a somewhat experienced faster, having done about 6 or 7 in the last couple years. My first attempts never lasted longer than a few hours, so desperate to try anything, I began with liquid fasting. Eventually, I became strong enough to try juice and the master cleanse fasts, but it took many, many attempts. My body dislikes going without solid food… I would find myself curled up in bed in the fetal position for hours, chain-smoking and drinking coffee like mad. I’d be depressed as well, and my emotions up and down without warning.
Well, my life is very different now. I used to fast for weight loss, and now I fast for cleansing and detox. I am no longer a smoker/drug addict/eating-disordered mess. Today is my 5th day of a proper fast that doesn’t include stimulants like caffeine and nicotene. I began with a day of raw foods, three days of master cleanse, and today I’m just drinking water with lemon juice and a dash of cayenne pepper. I’ve lost 7 pounds so far. I’ve also been going to the gym every day and putting in a gentle, 30-minute cardio workout followed by stretching, just to keep my metabolism going. I have loads of energy, and my emotions are pretty stable… I’m sure that has a lot to do with the fact that I’m sticking to the fast pretty strictly, and not chugging coffee all day.
Yesterday, I did a sea salt flush (my first ever), and today my stomach seems slightly bloated. I am in overall good shape and exercise 4-7 days a week, but I have this mound of fat on my lower stomach that won’t seem to budge. Annoying! I think I’m possibly retaining water… maybe I’m not drinking enough?
One thing I’m worried about is my upcoming weekend. I work at the biggest, busiest bar in town and I’m scheduled 6pm-3am both this friday AND saturday night. Normally, I would plan to break my fast before any events that sap energy (like busy bar shifts), but considering how I’ve been feeling (pretty good!) I’m toying with the idea of continuing the fast right through the weekend. Also, I’ve thought maybe during the day on friday and saturday i could switch from my water/lemon/pepper to juice and vegetable broth, and then on sunday go back to my fast. I may also need to drink a caffeinated beverage during work, because that’s usually necessary for me to make it through such a long shift. Has anyone ever had to do this semi-break? I don’t want to harm my body or undo the good I’ve done this week, but my job is incredibly physically challenging (a reason I love it!) and I need my energy and mental focus in order to it. Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated.
Hello 2 all. =) I’m on day 3 of my fast. I plan on going 28 days without juice and 60 days without food. This is my 5th fast but my 2nd long fast. My previous fast was 53 days long but I want 2 reach 60 this time bcuz it seems like a well balanced number. ^_^
Hi Charlie,
congrats on all your efforts. Im an old coffee hound that can’t seem to break the habit so you’re an inspiration.
Careful about the fast breaking. Ive been at work and compulsively started eating after a few days of fasting and really really gotten sick. Keep us posted! Rachel.
MK, 28 days of water is amazing. keep up the great work! Rach.
hi rachel, thanks for the feedback
I know that breaking the fast is much harder than beginning one, and tonight (work night!) will be a big challenge. I’ve semi-broken my fast today with broth and green veggies juice, and will continue to drink liquid calories throughout the weekend. We only have one thing on the menu at work that I can have tonight, and it’s some really tasty tomato and basil soup! It comes with buttered baguettes, but I’ll call the kitchen and tell them NOT to put them on the dish… I know I’ll get really sick if I eat solids, especially wheat products.
Anyway, I’ve lost 12 lbs (!!!) so far, and am going to be very careful the next few days. Great site Tom, I’ve been living on here all week!
Hi Charlie,
Thanks for the feedback. Keeps us posted.
Tom, thank you for your response. My understanding is that the body will not go into protein sparing mode on a juice fast like it does on a water only fast. If the body goes into protein sparing and consumes excess body fat, that’s a good thing for autoimmune disease since the toxins stored in fat are culpable in the disease; reducing the fat, reduces the toxins, balances the immune system. What are your thoughts? I am preparing for the fast to begin on April 15th, so your input would be much appreciated as I prepare.
Thanks again for taking the time to respond.
Sarah
Hi Sarah,
Babies grow healthy and strong with mothers’ milk that consists of only 6% protein. So that massive grow is done on a very small amount of protein. Juicing, I estimate will give about 2% protein. If you drink small amount of juice on a long juice fast your body will use your protein reserves which is a good thing. Catabolism is the tearing down but it is very systematic. Dead, dying and disease tissues are used first except in with cancer. You are right in that fat stores toxic oil and toxins. So fasting and ridding your body of old fat is healthy.
p.s. I am open to juicing.
Hi Tom,
You say with a fast that dead and dying cells are used first *except* with cancer? Does the body refuse to feed on the cancer? How does that work?
Thanks,
rhet
Rhet,
Cancer grows as it fulls the immune system into thinking the cancer is a normal cell. They are almost identical to the body from the perspective of the immune system. A change in the DNA caused by negative health factors like toxins, stress, nutritional deficiencies genetics weakness changes the way the cell reproduces. Cancer reproduces faster as it is out of touch with the bodies growth control mechanism.
Fasting increases catabolsim, boosts immune performance and increases immune activity. The cancer is weakened by the low glucose levels and the cancer regresses in mass for 2 to 5 weeks. Symptoms of the cancer is diminished and quality of life is increased. The hitch is angiogenisis. The cancer creates more blood vessels to increase nutrient absorption. Then the cancer regrows by eating the bodies resources. Catabolism become a metabolic pathway to the cancer. We have seen this in 5 patients. What herbs or chemotherapy could inhibit angeogenisis.
Can’t wait to start my fast! I have increase din weight steadily over the past few months — no medical reason, doctors just say I am getting oler and want me to use that as an excuse (I am 41). I feel bloated and have no energy. I have about 15 lbs for sure to lose, mabe 20, but I am not going to stress too much about that. I just am worried about muscle loss and ruining my already slow metabolism with a fast. I am at the end of my rope nad do not know what else to do.
shellelou,
For sure a 30 day juice fast using an enema will have a magnificent benefit and total recovery. For those benefits, so what if you can only bench press 2/3 of you normal weight. And you will bench more 30 days after the fast. Which is the best time to put on muscle mass as the body is dedicated to rebuilding.
Hi Tom,
As you know the 1st and 2nd day are the hardest day to start the fast. I am planning to fast tomorrow but I scare I will fail. Do you have ideas how to get pass the first two days? Thank you.
Annie,
Using and enema is the easiest thing to keep you free from hunger. Staying home for that period is also good.
hi all,
i started my juice fast 2 days ago with a gall bladder flush..whoa!!! i cant believe what came out!!! the doc wants to cut out my gallbladder,he reckons i dont need it..im unconvinced! so anyways, i thought id try the flush and a fast first, can anyone tell me particular juices that will benefit my liver /gallbladder? also does a veggie broth the same nutrients/calories as juice ? ive always used them in past fasts but am wondering if im cheating!!! i started at 102kgs, aiming for 80kgs
awesome site , truly inspiring!
blessings, sam
Hi sam
I met a woman who had stone flushed by the gall bladder flush and verified by ultrasound. You can find the instructions for the gall bladder flush are on google. Veggie broths are good on a fast. For the herbs for the gallbladder do a google search if you have not already done that.
Hi Sam,
We have one confirmed case of the gallbladder flush working confirmed by ultrasound. Could you let me know the results?
hi tom,
i will let you know for sure. i did an ultrasound the day before the flush so ill be able to do a before and after! there seems to be some argument as to wether what comes out are actually gallstones or just a byproduct of the flush. if they are stones i passed about 10 the size of large marbles and literally 100′s of small ones! flush consisted of juice in the morning, water at midday ,epsom salts + water at 6pm then 1 cup of lemon juice mixed with 2 cups of cold pressed extra virgin olive at 8pm. day 4 of fast..
Hi Sam,
Anything that floats in water is not a stone and just the fat in a partially digested state. So that caused me to doubt the treatment until the lady reported her success, to was verified.
So your info will be very convincing for me to add it to the program for gall stones.
Hi All,
I am so excited to find this site. I have fasted in the past and and loved how I feel during it. I have had a difficult time when I break fast doing it well. I have tried losing weight a few times in the past, I lose and then gain it back. I really want to be in better shape than this. I am 45 years of age, and a good 50-60 lbs overweight. I weighed myself this am and was dismayed to see that the scale read 187. I am only 5’4″. I also carry alot of it in my belly.I am pretty healthy other than some allergy problems. I plan to do raw foods (veggies and Fruits)for a couple days then go into my fast I am planning a 7-10 day water. I work at home, so I should be okay with temptation.
Dear Tom,
I am on my second day of fasting. I have never fast before and trying to be only on water. Is it ok if I add a tea spoon of honey into my water? I think it gives me energy. After all day without food I woke up today absolutelly fine! no weakness not even hunger.
I am a smoker and trying to cut off sigarets at all during the fast, but I smoked only one yesterday,do you think its OK??
Thank u!
Hi Irina,
Cutting down to one cigarette a day is good. Ehret and teach or water fasting recommended honey with lemon was better that a straight juice fast.
I have started my fast today, juicing but am not clear on how much juice I should have. I am starving today and am planning to do it for 30 days, but really wondering if that is possible. I am sure it is but if I feel like this on day one!!!
I am doing the fast because I am feeling totally toxic and have developed some digestive problems. What is the max amount of juice you should have?
Thanks FI
Hi Fiona,
Drinking lots of juice will slow the detox and cut the hunger. After day three you can start cutting down.
How much depends on your energy needs.
Hi Fiona and everyone,
I am on Day 6 of my juice and master cleanse fast today. I am fasting to help me break food addictions/binge eating and cut down on cravings for bad foods. My advice is to drink as much juice as you need to at first don’t worry too much about the amount just to get through the first few days. Take care 
I’ve been following everyone’s posts since january but this is my first post.
Blessings, April
Hi everyone.
About those enemas. I just detested this idea. Seriously.
But then I read the science on them, and Tom’s comments. The reason they cut the headaches and nausea and hunger of the first days of fasting (and beyond) is explainable.
See, the digestive system isn’t just a big long hose, with the large intestine at the end. The large intestine is where the liver and blood stream dump all the toxins. When we fast, more toxins get eliminated from our cells. But we don’t eliminate as often when fasting, so the toxins just sit there and make us nauseous and sick. Hunger is the body’s way of asking to get the train moving again, so the toxins don’t get re-absorbed.
We can cheat that process with the enema, which flushes the large intestine and gets things moving, so the toxins can leave.
Those enemas still aren’t fun. But if you use them preventatively in those first days (and I’d say 3 times a day–you’ll get faster at it), it makes the fast SO much easier.
Peace out,
rhet
hi all, tom,im on the 9th day of my juice fast.ive developed a really sore throat and aching bones over the last 24hrs, it feels like a flu. if it is ,im not sure if i should break my fast or not, any suggestions?
thanks
sam..
Hi Sam,
Fasting can heal a cold in less time or open the body to getting one. If you get chilled during fasting you can get a cold. I have seen both. Sore throat is an indication of a virus so I would keep fasting.
Hi, what are the common methods for enema? I am not sure… Thank you.
Hi Annie,
Check the category cleansing the colon on fasting.ws or search google for enema instructions.
Hey Annie,
Don’t do the “Fleet” enemas, they don’t do enough.
Go the the drugstore, and ask for an enema bag kit, if you can’t find it yourself. Sometimes it’s with the laxatives, sometimes it’s with the feminine products and medicines.
Try to open the box to see if it has a clear bag. With a clear bag, easier to see how it’s draining, and easier to clean. (I don’t have one–grr.)
When you get home, read the directions about how to put the enema kit together and administer the enema to yourself. Be aware that the first several times, you might only be able to take a little at a time before having to release it. But once you release (on the toilet), re-insert the tip and keep filling, holding, and releasing until the bag is empty.
Then wash your apparatus, and leave it somewhere that it can dry well so you don’t get mold.
Let us know how it goes!
–rhet
Mr. Coghill,
I’ve been ITing for almost half a year and have lost much weight and made much gains in my strength. This months Ive started a wormwood/blackwalnuthull/clove parasite cleanes after doing several, successful but gentle liver flushes with egg yolk, lime juice and flax oil. Ive been eliminating white/green stones, and lots of sludge and chaff. At first I got somewhat feverish after flushing, but now can liver flush with no crisis. My question is, since I started my light parasite killing protocal, my appetite has lessened greatly. Is this a good time to take advantage of overt fasting? My instincts tell me that I should never eat if Im not hungry. And I love to fast. Just wanted to get feedback from a professional! Thanks in advance, Rachel
Hi Rachel,
The program you described would be more effective during a juice fast. Not sure what “ITing” is.
Tom,
Do you have suggestions about what herbs might be best for inhibiting angiogenesis, and in what amounts?
Thanks–rhet
Hi Rhet,
I do not know if their are any herbs that would inhibit angiogenesis as it is a natural process. There is a drug called bct-100 from hong kong that is prolonging the life of cancer patients, mostly liver cancer, and they could be taken during a fast as they are not like chemo in the negative effects. I thought cannibanoids could play a role due to the anti-tumor factors that have been discovered. I did a cannibaniod test and the hunger caused during fasting is too intense for anyone to endure; it would have to be counteracted with chemothearapy which may be effective as cannibaniods reduce pain. Restricted juice fasting, smaller amounts of chemo, anti-angiogenisis drugs and cannibaniods my be the solution for stage 3 and 4 cancers that do not respond to standard medical treatment. It would take a few good minds to put this together. We are not treating cancer at the hospital for the time being. Our first terminal cancer patient is reporting excellent health after 5 months, and others stage 1, their cancer did not return and are in good health. We did not have essential oils in the treatment so that may have been a factor.
So we have something. And we did reverse diabetes, heart disease and other chronic diseases.
sorry for the lazy slang term, that just a short abrev. of itermittent fasting, probably should have been IFing instead. my favorite way to fast is everyother day, as Im focusing really hard on my strength training. for now im melting since once the liver glycogen is depleted and you work out intensly in a fasted state, your body gets really good at calling up fat stores for work instead of sugar. but i cant fast too many days in a row without real weakness. sweating is much more fun for me than longer fasts. but long fasting is still on the table. im primariy focusing on fatloss instead of cleansing, but im doing a healthy dose of that as well, thanks! rachel
Thx Rachel. =) I like ur method since ur trying 2 workout 2. I’m doing very light cardio bcuz without juice my energy is way low but I’m able 2 get threw the day without ne probs. I’m doing great and I feel good.;] I’m going 2 carry out my 60 day fast 2 the very end. =^.//=
day two again. feeling good I have found the vegitable stew is my ace in the hole when it comes to success. I filled up a gallon jug with the broth, I mixed it with cyenne pepper and I drink that throught the day heated to give me that satisfied feeling, I drink about 1/2 a gallon a day and probaly jog 2-3 miles evey other day. Im going the distance on this one I’m on day two going for 10 days. to me thats distance. Fasting makes me a better or just more sober person i suppose, I think clearer, I live cleaner and seem more centered if that makes sense. I am geting hungry now time for a glass of hot tea mmmm. i love tea
Hi all, im on day two of a juice fast. i havent done this since my daughter was born and she is now 10! After the fast (3-day), the weight just slid off…no one believed that I was a mother of 3. This hasnt been so bad but I’m thinking that I will need to do it longer than 3 days now that I am 10 years old – lol. I am very excited and happy to have found fasting.ws which has given me the initiative to get started. Reading others accounts is very inspiring. I am on a 5-day but if it gets good i will move the marker to 7 and so-on.
Day 1, i found that fruit juice icees were very helpful and I also drank odwalla juices (no soy ones). the night of day 1 i took two hoodia capsules and today i feel very full. nows its much easier to identify the emotional hunger from the real pangs. i also sipped some pickle juice once or twice.
6 more hours and day two will be over…wow! this is not so bad. its actually exciting! i had the feeling that I had lost all discipline, but now theres hope. i will post again soon.
Hello all! Okay, I think that I have stalked this site enough now(lol). I have been looking into fasting for sometime now, but have never been able to stick to it. My reasoning for wanting to fast in the past was merely for weight loss. Now, although I am in serious need of loosing weight I also need some insight and direction on my life. I lost my job not to long ago and it seem as if I’m stuck. I rarely ever go outside anymore and I all I do is stay in the house and eat. My body is starting to hurt and I smoke cigarretts like it’s know one’s business. I need direction right now, I need healing not only for my body but also my soul and that’s why I think that this fasting will help me. I have heard of people only drinking water on a fast. But as I read I see that you are also drinking juices as well. By me not having a juicer if I brought lemon and made lemon aide would this be okay? And how about Orange Juice? Apple Juice and pineapple juice? My goal is to complete a 30 day fast, but I’m wondering if I should just do seven on and seven off until I get to a place in my health, emotional state and weight were I’m comfortable?
Any suggestions or advice is appreciated
Thanks so much.
Hi Genisis,
Long water or juice fasts are not recommended for any person with compulsive eating behaviors. They make the fast but break it with binging. Very common. One person received freedom on a water fast but that was rare. There are many types of fast, no water, water, lemon juice and honey, juicing with a juicer and with store bought juicer. So try some shorter fasts of 3 to 5 days first. Seven on water is a long time. Advice, 1) come to the Philippines for a year would be totally transformational. 2. When you fast write out your emotions… what your feel and what you thing. Just looking at your emotional life can be totally life changing. 3. Get positive even if you do not feel like it. 4. Do some exercise every day even if it is to walk one block. 5. read daily about the negative stuff about cigarettes. 6. Buy a juicer and make juice daily. 7. Learn how to make amazing salads. 7. Join a church and get some good positive friends. 8. Pray for Mexico City. 9. Rebuild your self-image buy telling yourself you are …… 10. Post your failures and be honest. 11. Dream big.
Hi yall! Im beginning Day 4 now. Starting to think that eating is overrated – haha. Im still drinking juice. Had some vegetable broth last night…just because. Im not hungry at all. Exercised both yesterday and this morning….im feeling good.yay! I dont know why im not getting the lightheaded, weak, feelings….should they be coming soon? It doesnt look like any real weight is coming off but thats ok for now because i know it will. One more day and i will reach milestone 1 (5 days). If all goes well i may extend to next week and incorporate a inner cleanse program with psyllium. That will get it moving! take care
Hi Lynden,
The dizziness is rare with a slow metabolisms which you must have as the weight is coming off very slowly. Try to do some walking every day. I new one woman who walked 5 miles a day on a water fast and felt great. Your body may only need a few hundred calories per day. The waling will up the calorie need.
Hi Tom, I wrote to you on one of the posts, but can’t find the thread, so sorry I will ask again….I feel really dehydrated and my skin and tongue are really dry all the time. This is Day 13 for me of a juice fast. I drink coconut water every day as I swim about 2000 Km and it helps hydrate me. I am using coconut oil on my skin.I am thinking of doing a colon cleanse, but I know that is drying. You had said to take essential oils…to me that means Lavender, ylang ylang essences etc…(?) Do you mean oils like flax etc? I thought they would get my digestive track working again. Thanks
H Shaun
A mix of flax and hemp oils are the best like in UDO’s choice. A colon cleanse is good on a juice fast. Vitamin E is great for the skin. How can you swim 2000 Km? International travel would be cheap. Juice fasting over 15 days is the best for healing digestive disorders.
Ha, it would be cheap. I meant 2000 meters, big difference. Thanks for the help…I have never done over 10 days and it’s been great to read your site. I will do the oils, can’t get hemp here but I will be in Singapore, so will look there. I do know colon cleanses are good, but was worried they would dry me out more.
Day 14! Thanks
Hi Shaun,
Singapore is on my next “go to” destinations. Looks amazing. If you get in the Philippines come to Sagada, you will love it.
Thx for the reply Tom. im on day 7 now…not hungry at all. I started taking a one 80sc cayenne capsule and still doing two 500mg hoodia (100%) morn and eve. The weight is now coming off quickly…not sure if im healing as i dont have any notable ailments (thankfully). I feel NO hunger. none, not once and no dizziness. Its really weird. I am planning on going to Friday and then will probably eat. Not sure what do start off eating. Fruit maybe? I think there is a section on here about it…
Hi Lynden,
Do you think the cyanne increased the weight reduction? If so lets see if others will give it a try. Do you have accurate weight per day that you could post and the change using cayenne. Soft fruits are the best to end any fast for one or two days.
Fasting Buddy Wanted – Hi Anyone. Simon from New Zealand here. Am after someone for support and sharing. I am on my second fast – did a 7 day water fast last year and are now 5 days into a 14 day water fast. Am keeping a brief diary.
Anyone want to team up online?
See diary to date below to see if we could work togther:
14 Day Water Fast – Food, reflection and life in general 4th May 2009
Last year I did an experiment. I spent a month eating only raw uncooked food. This was life changing and has greatly impacted how I approach food, eating and general health.
I am now almost 100% vegetarian – still eat fish when served to me and eggs – I think I will drop them in the near future. I did a 7 day water fast and apart from finding it boring enjoyed the challenge.
I am concerned that I can obsess about food and still over eat at times. I also have one big downfall in my diet – beer! Can easily drink 8 bottles. Am currently feeling over food and want to give my system a rest – also want to drop kilos so today I start a 14 day water fast.
Here we go…
Day 1:
Weighed in at 81 kg this morning 6:30 am. Have drunk lots of water today. At work for this fast – the last one was during the holidays. So far feeling fine. Early days. Gym tonight but only weights not cardio. Ciao.
Day 2:
79 kg – mainly water and shit weight lose I’d guess. Feeling very alert and motivated. Hungry this evening but nothing different than usual. Day three is when I think the body enters ketosis. C U 2moro!
Day 3:
78 kg – woke feeling weak. Had hot and cold flushes. Did not feel great and thought about giving up while driving to work. Got better as the day went on. Feeling the cold very easily. At times my thought process is very clear and precise.
Day 4: Woke up feeling more settled and even. 76 kg now – heck. Enjoying drinking hot water at times. Probably drinking 4 to 5 litres a day. Thinking very clear. So much spare time.
Day 5: Feeling in the groove. Not that hungry just missing the anticipation of a meal & sharing it with my family. I can’t believe the ongoing weight lose. I believe that by day 10 it begins to level of according to Don Tolman. 75kg this morning.
Hi Tom, me again. I found some UDO oil in Singapore. Also found lots of food booths that make fresh juice right in front of me! Today I had a spinach, celery apple – it was good to get a little greens as they are not available in Bangladesh this time of year. Which comes to my question…I usually juice a LOT of greens on a fast but can only get celery,cucumber and green pepper (not even any parsley this time of year). Do you recommend adding Spirolina to a juice? Most of the “green” additives have soy or wheat ground in them – so was wondering about Spirolina or Barley grass powders.
I made Day 20 today -pretty good since I am travelling!
Thanks for the help.
Hi Shaun
You can do a fast using only spirulina or barley green, so yes add it to the juice. What is Bangladesh like to live in. I hear it is polluted badly.
Actually, I don’t think so. The water is polluted around Dhaka and the few factories they have. The rest of the country outside of Dhaka is countryside and very rural. Dhaka itself is noisy and polluted as there are 19 million people but not as polluted as Cairo etc as they only allow natural gas in vehicles and have banned plastic bags. The wind and rainstorms blow much of the pollution off. Much of the county is beautiful and trips down the many rivers are nice!
Found some fresh wheatgrass juice today! One last question..I am doing a medical checkup- will the fast affect my blood tests? Thanks for your help
Hi Shaun,
There are may blood tests but almost all tests ask for fasting before the test to lower the fat and sugar content in the test sample. So the reading will not be affected.
This is my first day fasting. I am 5’3 220 pounds 31 years old. My goal weight is 120 pounds in 3 months. My daily intake consist of 64 ounces of water, a multi vitamin and “everyday detox tea”. What can I do to keep from feeling hungry? It is 5pm and I belieeve I can make it bthrough my first day but it is difficult for me to not eat.
Hi s.makeda
First day hunger is the worst. Drink till your stomach is full or the enema works perfectly.
Today is my 3rd day of water fasting, and I felt completely normal up to today, I have already lost 6 pounds, and I don’t have any hunger pains. Its the light-headed feeling and slight back pains that are killing me right now, I’m just glad that I’m off till monday because hopefully I can rest and by the time day 6 comes around it will be much better.
Hi Luaren,
Back pain can be excruciating on water fasting if there was damage or past injury. It stops when you break the fast. It is due to deep tissue and nerve healing. Hot packs, hot baths, massage and stretching help.
Hi everyone,
Found one fasting guru’s book saying that “complete fasting” (not sure about the english therminology, the book was in another language. What I meant was complete abstinence from everything, no food, no juice no water, nothing)is the most efficient of all the types of fasting, but couldn’t find anyone practicing that on this site.
Tom, you seem like quite an experienced “faster”)), what do you think?
And anyone with knowledge and/or experience is welcome to share.
PS The most problematic issue with fasting for me seems to be not even the cravings, but this terrible feeling in your mouth, which makes it difficult to interract with people. And which ofcourse is a very big issue, because you have to go to uni, work etc.
How do you people deal with it??
Hi Allya
Yes the original meaning of fasting is to “cover ones mouth” no food or water. I called it “dry fasting” the modern usage of the word includes juice fasting, the master cleanse, fasting with spirulina or wheat grass. Dry fasting is powerful and I was juice talking to a patient about it at the hospital that is may be very effective against cancer. Some find it easy other find it hard. Juice fasting is the best way to start and end any fast and water fasting is the best transition into dry fasting. The toxic mouth and foul taste is much less on juice fasting and you are more energetic. The rule is get the hang of juice fasting with lots of juice first. Then cut down the juices, then go to water then cut the water for 1 to 3 days then back to juice. The cycle can be repeated.
PS2 Found the right term. Dry fasting)))
Hi Tom, It’s me back in Bangladesh. It will be Day 30 tomorrow. I have looked over your site and you recommend 30 days mostly. I started detoxing again (a deeper one) about day 22 and am still detoxing. I think I want to extend the 30 days. I have lost 14 lbs and am exercising a lot and feeling good. What do you think? Any homemade suggestions for enhancing the detox? I have a Colon Cleanse formula and some detox teas. I do beet juice every other day. Should I try a day without juice? I do have to work full time, so am not into losing much energy. Your thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks
Hi Shaun,
40 to 50 days on juice is easy to do and without negative effects. Herbal teas with a natural sweetener are good. The colon cleansing formulas are good. I have been studying Cyanne Pepper which looks like it enhances metabolism and weight loss.
Hi – I need some one to visit with!!! I am an American working in Bangladesh and am on Day 30 of a juice fast. I am staying really strictly to homemade juices + fresh coconut water (for great electrolytes) + a TB of oil. I have fasted many times, but not over 10 days. Am having a “high” feeling lately, but still am very functional and clear at work. It seems I am really productive! I am not sure whether to end my fast or not, we have a meditation retreat this weekend, on a fast , it would be best I think. Anyone out there done 30+ days that’s still fasting (hearing from anyone would be nice). I actually think I am afraid to end it, and this great feeling. I usually have more of a problem with hunger once I break.
Hi Shaun, I’m into my 15th day of a juice fast. What did you mean by a “deeper detox”? Are you doing something different since day 22? I know how you feel about being afraid to quit the fast! I have dreams of eating and wake up extremely guilty feeling. That feeling, plus trying to heal a digestive system from years of abuse have kept me going. Plus more impotantly, the help of God! Hope you get some company there in India! And good luck with your extended fast! Peace, Ron
Hi Ron,
The fasting becomes a freedom and a high. It is like flying above the earth. When you eat the battle starts with tremendous power. It can become a demonic battle of obsession, compulsion and raw will power. The longer the fast the bigger the battle. Many blow breaking the fast and become depressed and lethargic. You need to prepare for breaking the fast during the fast. It is like going to war after a vacation. You have to know you body will have strong cravings and ever amount of will power you have will be tested. And if you have poor digestion, breaking a fast badly can be hell. Prayer, being super positive and know that is is only for 5 to 10 days will help. If you make that you are home free.
Thanks Tom! I understand exactly what you are saying.
Prayer is so powerful too! And we don’t realize it as we should. It comes from years of trying to solve every problem on our own, without God! All he wants of us is to ask Him! What father would hold back a plea of help from their child?
I’ve been fortunate and blessed with a wonderful, spiritual wife and family (9 children). We pray often, and for many who need them. We have also been blessed with many miracles of healing and Grace for these people in need, through our prayers. The Lord has given us a tremendous gift, and has “NEVER” let us down. No matter the situation prayed for, there is “ALWAYS” something good that comes out of it!
If you have any intentions for prayer we would be happy to include them. Just let us know their first name, and need. We will also pray for you and the work you are doing to help others, physically, and spiritually.
Also, Thank you very much for answering my many questions about my fasting! I’m not only feeling great in body, but have a NEW way to praise, and honor Our Lord!! God Bless You, Ron
Hi Ron and Tom, What I meant by a “deeper detox” is that it felt like parts of my body that have been out of sync for years were detoxing- that plus old emotions/issues seemed to be arising. I had almost a pink tongue, then it turned yellow and brown. Tom, do you suggest liver flushes or anything like that? I have read about salt flushes, but haven’t done any.
I am afraid to break – decided I would wait until the weekend retreat was done…will be nice to do it on a fast. Perhaps i will go for 40 days or so. I don’t take any vitamins, figure my array of fresh juices is enough.
Thanks for the responses…no one to talk about this with here!
Hi Shaun,
The salt flush is good at the start of a fast especially for UTI, candida or infections. At your stage that work has been done by the fast. A liver cleanse is good if you are juice fasting but not water fasting. The best for the liver is a beet, carrot, lemon combination fresh. So you could break your fast on that. Oh yea add some beet tops is you can get them and wash before using.
Hi Shaun, I have had mood swings. Not very emotional, but surprisingly, very cold and apathetic(if thqat makes sense to anyone)LOL!
On the other hand I’ve had tremendous spiritual feelings, and revelations. Also, besides the detox effects, my body hasn’t been this fit in ions.
The hard part is adjusting to all these influences. Sometimes at the same time! I’m focusing on the good, and prayer, and this fine website of Tom’s for support.
This, my 3rd week has been a little rough hungerwise. I have a boatload of skinny kids, snacking and eating almost constantly in my home!! My determination is soild though! I’m gonna make it at least 21 days this time.
I hope to do a 30-40 day water fast next Lent season. I’ve always fasted in some way during Lent so this will be the ultimate.
I have also fasted one day a week for many years, as weight control, and spritual sacrifice. Not that it was anything special, but I have trained myself a bit. That’s probably why I was able to make it this first extended fast with relative ease.
I just did what I did on my daily fast….DAILY! LOL
I had the crappy tongue for 2 weeks. Then it disappeared! It was so thick and gummy…I could never get it completely off!! Amazing how the detox system in our bodies work! I’ll be looking for the next stage as you have found.
Good luck and God Bless. I, and my family will include you in our prayers for your fast and emotional state. Ron
Hi Ron, thanks for the encouragement and good luck! Day 32 for me today. I prepare food for my son and have sat and watched people eat all along. It’s strange. Every once in a while I get a hunger flash (only when I am around food and haven’t had a juice) I have tried grabbing the fat parts of my stomach for a reminder!
I still have a grungy tongue- it’s so dark it’s gross. Wonder what is coming up/out? I have a great spiritual weekend (meditation retreat) so am looking forward to that. Good luck with all those kids! Remember, you are a great model for them…..especially how we don’t have to give in to all the desires of the world.
I will be interested to see if you detox again this week….keep me posted!
Tom – thanks for the tip. I do make beet, apple, carrot ginger juice, so my liver is probably already flushed. You have been a great help..hope to get to the Philippines some day (it’s not too far away)
You should put something on your site about the wonderful powers of fresh coconut water. Tons of electrolytes I am told. Canned isn’t good, but most people can get them in the states and in tropical countries.
hi everyone!
it has been really interesting reading everyones posts! i have fasted many times before unfortunately never getting past day 4! 
i really want to complete a 2 week water fat starting tomorrow. i just don’t seem to have the will power to keep at it which really upsets me! does anyone have any advice on how to keep keep going? and does the weak feeling pass after the first few days because on my 4th day i felt terrible and pathetically sorry for myself haha. everytime i break it i feel really bad, i have to do it this time! want to experience the great benefits and feel clean!
im 5ft 2 and weight 9 stones 5 lbs, how much weight should i expect to lose with 2 weeks water fasting? is it ok to drink green tea whilst i am fasting as i love it!reading everyones posts has really inpired me, i think anyone who has the will power to do what you have is amazing!
thanks
xxxx
Hi Tom- tomorrow is day 40 for me. Seems like it’s gone fast really. I had a great meditation retreat. I am wondering if I want to break or not…(?) Any guidance on that? I have lost 20 lbs but still seem to be detoxing some as my tongue hasn’t cleared. I am a little worried about breaking I guess…Figured I’d go on raw foods for a week.
Hi Shaun,
Wow 40 days, outstanding. If you still have excess fat and feel good you can continue to fast.
Starting a juice fast today. I have tried several times before but never make it past day 4. Hopefully a support system will help.
Hi you fasting-warriors, today is the 1st day I broke my 6-day juice fast and I just want to share the joy & lightness that filled my body today – even though it is just a short fast especially compared to those fasting for weeks!
I am a yoga instructor from Singapore and have been vegetarian for almost 10 years. Even with a relatively healthy lifestyle, I still felt my intestines were not working efficiently at times. I am slowly adjusting to eating more raw food and would like to find a balance between consuming cooked & raw vegetarian foods.
I must really thank Tom for all his advice and stumbling upon this website – with its wealth of info – finally jolted me to embark on my fasting journey. I have always wanted to go to a fasting retreat but could not afford it. This website & a book I was reading helped equip me with all that I need to fast on my own.
I tried my 1st fast last year – before I bought an enema kit – by juicing & taking psyllium husk. I struggled with cravings & hunger – I was constantly surrounded by food in Singapore & was still running around teaching yoga at different places. I found I did not really experience any huge difference in terms of feeling cleansed or feeling light when I broke the fast, which lasted only 5 days.
However this time I bought a great enema kit from healthandyoga.com & I must say it made a huge difference to my fast. Even though I fell short of my targeted 7 days, I feel it’s important to listen to our body and every small fast is a commendable effort. Fasting is not an end to all our unhealthy habits but more of a means to jumpstart our bodies towards healthier living & eating with more awareness. I still can’t believe what a relatively short fast did for me – my body eased seamlessly into every pose I was practising today & I haven’t felt this way for a very very long time!
I will certainly be continuing to embark on periodic fasts to give my body the love & rest it deserves & once again, THANKS loads to all your inspiration and especially to Tom (did you enjoy singapore?).
Hi Shaun,
How are you doing?
40 days!! WoW…You are my HERO! LOL
I’m on my 26th day, and feel SUPER! I’m planning on 30 days, and “maybe” end with a short water fast.
I had a wonderful yearly check up yesterday. Needless to say, my doctor was astonished at my improvements over last year. He wrote down everything I said to him! Hmmmmmm. LOL
I feel like I’m just about healed physically! Thank God….And you Tom!
What are your plans for future fasts?
I was thinking of following Tom’s “first” 30 day fast: 30 days fasting, followed by 10 days on raw solids, then twice again (30×10).
My thinking is, (Tom, Please chime in on my theory) I will get the desired “complete” detox/cleansing effect, and find the “will” to do the ultimate 40 day water fast(next Lent season).
This whole fasting experience has been a revolution to me! Everything has come to light, and I’m thrilled. The good feelings have overpowered the bad. And there is no way I want anything to do with what I’ve left behind.
I just wish I started 20 years ago. I might have avoided several issues in my life…. Physically, Mentally and Spiritually.
But hey…It could’ve also been a lot worse…. I may never have found fasting at all!
God Bless, Ron
Hi Ron,
The first time I got free through fasting I got wired to the high. I did 2 other fasts over 30 days with 10 between. No more healing as I was already healed. Mostly is was just for fun. My weight stayed about the same but I was drinking about 4 liters of juice a day and working. So it was really a juice diet. Detoxing is a flexible event. Which is great. My future with fasting is the same. I fast regularly to maintain health and energy. We have a new team at the hospital and we are flying ahead. Now we have 5 countries represented here on the team.
Hi Tom!
Thanks for your help, and replies!
It sounds like exciting work you are doing at the hospital. To be able to help people in such an enriching, spiritual, and healthful way must be very rewarding to you! I’d love to be part of it also!
I have been looking to help people in a more spiritual way. My wife and I were talking about it last evening as we were driving back from visiting and praying with a friend. “Lydia”, has cancer. She has been fighting breast cancer over the years and finally decided to stop battling and join our Lord. It seems I have been around several people in the last 2 years that have been dying. Until recently, it’s felt a little strange, and unfortunate. Then I started thinking that maybe the Lord has a ministry for me!
I have some friends that are Catholics and Christians who are also health care individuals. And I was thinking about a Christian Hospice care center! And wouldn’t it be wonderful to bring these poor people to the Lord in their last weeks, or days!
It’s a way to “heal” them, and myself spirtually. The several people I have been with in the last year have all found the Lord and passed happily in the end, despite their pain, and health problems.
We have 2 Hospice care centers in our area. Neither of which is religious in any way! As a matter of fact, a nurse from one of them showed up at our friends home and suggested that her “Rake” group comes to the Hospice care center to wave their arms over patiences to impart “vibes” & “good feelings”! Sounds creepy!!
Do you have Hospice care there at your hospital? What do you think of the idea? I actually heard from a friend that “Hospice” was started by Catholics in its beginnings.
My health care friends and I are getting together for a meeting to discuss the idea. I’m excited to have a way to “help” my fellow brothers and sisters in their time of need! My hope is that something will come of this if possible.
Because, lets face it…in the end, it will be our relationships with one another that will matter to our Lord.
Good Bless, and Thank You again Tom for helping me through my wonderful, enlightening fast! Ron
“I bring you now a new commandment; Love one another as I have loved you.”
Hi Ron,
We treat indigent patients on a daily basis. We have a Chaplin that was cured of several health conditions through a 44 day fast. Most Filipinos are Christian. We would love to have you here. We are searching for volunteers and interns for the program. The costs are very low at about $200 a month living costs for interns and volunteers but we are trying to reduce that by sharing produce from the garden. I can call you on the phone and answer your questions. If you look at the front page of http://sagadahospitial.com you can get a bit of an over view.
Hi Tom,
I checked the Hospital out! Very nice, and GOOD!! It is obvious that people are cared for, and important there. Not just profit generators as here in the states.
I would love to join you! Not only is your work so very good, but it looks like a virtual paradise in Sagada! I’ve dreamed for years of going to the South Pacific. I did some research years ago, and wanted to move my family permanently to the Marquesas Islands at one point. LOL..My kids thought I was nuts! My wife would go tho!
Unfortunately, my family and career obligation don’t permit me to go there at the moment. But hey! Who knows? LOL… I could go “nuts” at any moment and leave the rat race behind.
I can dream. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your fabulous work! God Bless, Ron
Hi Ron
Yes Sagada is one of the most amazing places on earth and a great place to raise a family due to its health and safety factors. If have found that if you stay open the doors open. So dream away. You can retire here with a family for under $500 a month and be very comfortable.
Hello all,
I am a 34 year old, in good health, from Texas. I’m starting a long water apple juice fast tomorrow. It may be 100 degrees tomorrow. Is it safe to do a water fast and work in that kind of heat? For how many days?
Hi Eric
Water fasting radically increase the body’s abilty to endure intense heat as digestion creates heat. No digestion and the body is cooler. But brrrr cold in winter. Working is usually very difficult during water fasting. Better to juice fast with 3 to 4 liters of juice per day.
Hi Tom,
Great advice! I will definitely keep my “doors open”. I have only a few years to retire, and will be looking into Sagada. I, and my wife may do a retreat at your place at some point.
Which leads me to a question for you.
My wife is thin and has a very quick metabolism. She is very much health conscious and has a superior diet. She goes religiously by the “blood type diet”. But, she suffers from migraine headaches. It “seems” like moldy foods and sugar are her culprits.
Anyway, I’ve been trying to get her to fast to get rid of the headaches. She has been using caffeine in the form of diet coke to relieve them now. I think she is doing more harm than good with that!
She is afraid to fast because 1. she is already normal to underweight. 2. she thinks the mold & sugar in some fruits will give her problems. 3. she gets hungry often during the day (taking care of my multitude of children) and eats small meals several times a day.
I know you have a quick metabo….Do you have any suggestions for her? Thanks, Ron
Hi Ron,
She may have candida. During fasting thin people get thinner but normalize very quickly after the fast. Caffiene causes Vasodilation refers to the widening of blood vessels[1] resulting from relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, particularly in the large arteries, smaller arterioles and large veins. The process is essentially the opposite of vasoconstriction, or the narrowing of blood vessels. When vessels dilate, the flow of blood is increased due to a decrease in vascular resistance. Therefore, dilation of arterial blood vessels (mainly arterioles) leads to a decrease in blood pressure. The response may be intrinsic (due to local processes in the surrounding tissue) or extrinsic (due to hormones or the nervous system). Additionally, the response may either be localized to a specific organ (depending on the metabolic needs of a particular tissue, as during strenuous exercise), or systemic (seen throughout the entire systemic circulation). Factors that result in vasodilation are termed vasodilators.
Cayanne pepper has the same effect on the blood vessels as caffeine. So it is worth a try. Fasting may increase or decrease the headaches. I had intense, constant headache pain for several years then my 30 day juice fast reduced the pain to 10 to 20 percent depending on what I eat.
It was well worth being skinny for a few weeks.
Hi Tom,
Thanks so much for the info! My wife (Libby) believes that she indeed has Candida. She has tried to combat it thru no sugar in her diet. She uses grain and Agave sweeteners. She probably has kept it in check, but not gotten rid of it.
I think “Lib” now realizes a total fast is necessary to starve the Candida. She asked me to ask you what she can consume during the fast for calories? She asked about olive oil with veggie juice? Is there anything else that will pack on the calories, yet have no sugar for the Candida to feed on?
On another note…I’m at 30 days tomorrow! I am already planning another fast in a few weeks! Thanks so much for your support and advice. I don’t know if I would’ve been as successful without you! The whole experience has been very spiritual, enjoyable, and life changing! God Bless, Ron
Hi Ron,
Candida is complex and hard to treat. Water fasting usually can reduce all symptoms of Candida but it can be rough as when they die off they release toxic compounds. Candida has the capacity to go dormant. The return when there is sugar in the blood. Juice fasting using cucumber, celery, apple, lemon, and any green with herbs like clover, garlic, ginger and I think sages. (check the web)
It is on the plane to create a protocol for Candida but it is going to take some time. Cayenne pepper my also help and using stevia as a sweetener. The protocol may include a pro-biotic daily. Enema and vaginal flush. A short run of anti Candida drugs can also be very effective during fasting. Supplementation with B, Q10, E, C in mega dose, essential oils, and herbal Candida Buster formulas can also work. With Candida it is better to hit it with everything you can. You need the juices to buffer the herbs.
I am wanting to start a fast but I am breastfeeding a 13 month old. Can anyone tell me if this will be safe?
Hi Marry
Juice fasting using 3 to 4 liters of fresh juice a day with a multi B vitamin and 5 egg whites or protein supplement will provide excellent nutrition for you and your baby and detoxify at a comfortable rate. Do a site search on breast feeding the box at the top right.
well it’s the end of day four. I was hoping to not be this hungry still. I am such a glutton, this is going to be hard. I am hungry but surprisingly it’s not a hunger that is greater than anything I’ve ever felt before. It’s just a constant nagging feeling telling me to eat. I try to keep from opening the refridgerater as much as possible and wear imaginary blinders when I’m driving around town. Everything smells so good. Work hasn’t been a problem yet but it has only got to 90 degrees so far. Seems like my muscles take longer to heal after a work out though. I’m sleeping more and getting out of bed is hard. I’ve lost 12 pounds already. Although I’m doing this for spiritual reasons the weight loss is welcome. I’m was about 25 pounds over weight. I’m doing it with just water for now. I’m going to see how long I can go like this, then add the juices later if I feel I have to. I’m not sure how long I want to do this for. I would like to go 40 but realize I probably won’t get that far. I will definitely go a week , then I will see about adding to it.
CUMOSTA!
Thank you all for sharing your personal stories and thank you Tom for hosting this wonderful resourceful website for all of us to share in.
I am on my 1st day of my fast. I have been researching and preparing for over 2 months. I am doing a distilled water fast with water from 1 young coconut daily. I have been walking 3-4 miles everyday since I began my journey and have shared my plans with all of my closest friends and family. I think the walking and emotional support will be essential to my success.
I am 33 years old and have been on a search for greater health for quite some time. It was by accident that I came across the Raw Food Diet online, before that I was trying to acheive health through supplements, herbs, etc but of course that never worked and I was still eating the SAD. I recently ended a 3 year relationship which has been very difficult at times and now that I have discovered all of this wonderful information, I feel I will be better able to move on with my life in the right direction. I am looking forward to the mental clarity and inner peace that comes along with a fast.
I am hoping to do a 30 day water fast. I am about 40 lbs overweight, do not have any serious health problems, but am wanting to detoxify after 10 years of smoking (quite 8 months ago), occasional marijuana use, and 8 years of regular alcohol intake. Over the last 2 months I have been weaning myself off of alcohol and processed foods. That alone has made a world of difference so I am very excited to see what a prolonged fast will do for my physical and emotional health.
Well again, Thank YOu to all who share your struggles and successes with the rest of us. To Tom: SALAMAT & MABUHAY!!!
Hi Elleen,
Wise move taking the time to study before you fast. Many just jump in and run into problems. For people who are totally fucused on a water fast I tell them, buy a juicer, to start and end the fast and if the water fasting gets too hard have some juice. Are you in the Philippines? SALAMAT
Tom, thank you so much.I will do a search, that helped out a lot
Hi Tom,
Thanks for the acknowledgement. To address your question, I am not currently in the PI. I was born there and have been back 3 times over my lifetime. I am the product of an Air Force Dad and local Filipina Mom.
I have serious interest in eventually living in the Philippines and at one time considered selling PI Real Estate to folks here in the US, California. Since I am also a dual citizen, I have even considered running for political office in the PI but that may be a dream that is a ways off. We’ll see.
So I am near the end of my 1st day of fasting and so far so good. I started the day with a 4 mile walk, then have been sipping on a glass of distilled water and a glass of young coconut water. I have heard many rumbelings in my tummy and have had plenty of energy to do some chores around the house. I think the more I can keep myself distracted, the better my outcome will be.
Thanks again for hosting this support forum. After having read others testimonials, I do not feel alone or scared. I think you are doing a wonderful thing.
Well I made it! On day eight now with only water. It wasn’t easy, but I think my body finally realized I wasn’t going to feed it. Day five was the hardest. I came so close to going caveman on my ice box. I’ve decided to keep going for a while. Try to get to ten days. I have a question as far as breaking this fast. I have to travel from Tx. to Pen. on July 6 for a mission trip. I am going to need a lot of energy then so I want to be at least eating vegies by then. I was thinking maybe doing up to twenty days with water, then ten days on juice, then five on fruit then five on vegies. Do you think this is safe? Do you think I can do more time on just water and still break into vegies by the sixth?
Hi Eric,
Water fasting gets more difficult with social events, travel, stress but juice is doable. I carry a thermos at all times when juicing. Sure you can alternate water and juice and that is the preferred method as you rebuild nutritional supplies during the juice fasting making the water fasting more effective.
Dear Tom,
Following the reading of your columns on the Net about fasting, and the knowledge I already had about it, I have started a juice fast but would like to ask you the following: I don’t seem to be digesting and eliminating since I have started the fast. It is as if food is still stuck in my oesophagus! I think this follows not having any bowel movement, you can get reflux of food that does not go down; obviously this is not good at all. What should I do? I intended to try the 30 day juicing fast. So: how much of bowel movement should you have on a juice fasting? what can you do if things get a bit stuck there? I don’t want to break the fast but I feel maybe I need to have an apple or something to help digesting the food accumulated before the fast. Please could you let me know as I am quite worried about it. Thank you,
Annick West
PS.I am French, living in the UK, married with 2 children. I have found your comments on fasting very interesting, thank you for putting it all on the Net. I am very interested in alternative medicine and nutrition. My own mum did a ‘grapes’ fast’ years ago (eating only grapes for one month and a half).
Hi Annick
Sure try an apple. An enema is the best choice. Sure try some apple. Bowel moments can be every 3 days. Nothing in equals nothing out. The enema my be your best choice.
Hello all! I’m starting my fast tomorrow….water,lemon,and maple syrup, with occasional herbal tea throughout the day. I’ve found all of your comments inspirational so thank you. THIS is my very first fast. I’ve been a smoker for 12 years with a brief phase of not smoking in the last year.
I’m fasting to revive my spirit and cleanse my body of all of the horrible toxins I’ve exposed it too in the last several years. I’m hoping this will be life changing, give me some self control, and stop my addiction to food and cigarettes. I’m not “overweight” per say but cold definetly lose a few pounds. I’m really excited tonight, but I know that tomorrow will bring new emotions. Thank you in advance for the encouragement and if anyone needs a buddy like I do to get through this please email me!
Bernicevaughns@yahoo.com
Day one of a ten day water and lemon fast/cleanse. Anyone else starting a fast?
Hi Ray!
I am too on day one of a lemon water fast. Have you done one before?!? This is my first time and I’m really looking forward to the benefits of a cleaner body and mind. Good luck!!! I left my email on another post if you’d like to contact me for the extra support (I know I could use it).
Hi all, question: I’m midday day 3 on a water fast. So far today I have been rapidly cycling through feelings ranging from minutes of being lightheaded to perfectly fine, angry and annoyed to excited, and just plain feeling sorry for myself. In your experience, will feelings like this continue as intensely or after 3-4 days might they begin wane a little?
I have built up to this with 2 day fasts, and many cycles of fasting 20 hours/day Mon-Fri (intermittent fasting style), so this is my first experience going farther.
Any thoughts are appreciated! Great site!
Hi Kae
Your emotional cycles are a lesson on how toxins in the blood affect ever aspect of our being. The usually drop off after 5 days and the cycle length get longer. After a few weeks of fasting the negative emotions are few and the positive ones are more predominant. I called it a “fasting high”.
Hi Tom, question about enema:
For awhile, the enema was working great for short 2-5 day fasts. But lately, I’ve been getting headaches and nausea WITH the enema. Is is possible that the enema is dislodging toxic stuff from higher up in my colon that’s being partially re-absorbed, and making me sick?
Thanks!
rhet
Hi Rhet
Yes, the enema is dislodging toxic stuff.
The toxic reaction to an enema is common.
It usually does not last for more than 2 to 3 uses of the enema.
Is it ok to take fish oil,vitamin E or other supplements while I fast? I am doing a water fast and am 6 hours away from beating the first 24. I also quit smoking yesterday…..it’s been a little hectic this afternoon!! I went on a 5 mile walk today though, nothing super fast paced, just kept moving……
Thanks for the advice. Also, I havent’ done an enema yet today. How beneficial do you think it would be to do one? I have been drinking senna tea for the last two nights.
Hi Bernice
Unless you have a slow metabolsim you may be entering into fasting hell. Starting a water fast after years of smoking and walking 5 mile will trigger a intense toxic reaction in 95% of people. Not wise to take supplements during water fasting as they can just sit in the stomach. I would recommend 5 days on juices using and extractor before going to water fasting. Enemas have clear benefits during fasting. Use it and you can tell me what they are.
Hi everybody!I am new on this site,but really enjoy reading stories,people shared here.I have been a vegetarian since I was 18(now I am 52),but before I became vegetarian,I consumed big amounts of meat,cakes,white bread,cheese and everything else…I have been eating cookies and cakes every day(thanks to my grandma),never did any exercise…By the time I became a vegetarian,I had suffered tonsillitis constantly(my tonsils had to be taken out),pneumonia and anemia.I started to drink fresh apple-carrot-beet root juice and took some iron supplements and that helped a grate deal.When I became a vegetarian,I didn’t seem to have any problems with my health…I have been “experimenting”with food and once I went on row diet for the whole year-that felt grate,I had so much energy,I was climbing trees!
I was also fasting from time to time just on water(I had some stomach pain,didn’t know what was that)and after 15 days of fasting just on water the pain was gone and didn’t come back until a few years ago,when I was in South France and all I ate was brie cheese and white bread.I realize,I can’t digest anything anymore.Even carrot juice was giving me pain.I went to a doctor and she said I have a helicobacter in my stomach,which can lead to ulcer and cancer. But I didn’t have any of it!The only thing that helped me was a supplement called fucus(sea weed).But I didn’t stop there and decided to fast.During my 7 days fast I was taking enema with my own urine every other day.Day 7th i broke my fast with carrot-beet root juice and went to the bathroom.What came out of me was unbelievable!It was black,foul smelling stuff and some black,excrement looking things,floating on a surface.I felt grate!My metabolism increased,I lost weight and my stomach didn’t hurt anymore.I read some books about detox and liver cleansing and realised that it was my liver,cleansing after fasting.But…gradually I went back to my old habit of overeating and started to gain wait again,felt decrease of energy and developing of arthritis(my mom has arthritis).I decided to do some liver cleansing(with olive oil and lemon),and the result was amazing!All kinds of gallbladder stones were coming out(white,green,gray),I did it several times with the interval of a month and it felt grate!My metabolism increased,I was loosing wait and had a lot of energy.But it seems,I have never learned to not overeat and eat between the meals.If I wasn’t a vegetarian and eating healthy,I would end up developing a deadly decease…By the age of 52 my diet was whole grain homemade flat bread with wheat sprouts,salads,stemmed broccoli,other veggies,fruits,nuts,seeds,olive and flaxseed oil,green tea with lemon and honey,fresh veggie juice.I add some fish and sea food in my diet(very rare)and rice.But…again,I ate more than my stomach could take and sometimes snaking between the meals and…sometimes feeling like eating a cookie.And I didn’t just ate one-it had to be more..And feeling of gilt after that…Anyway,last 2 years I experienced decrees of energy,depression,loss of creativity(I am an artist)and pain in my joints and bones.Today I am on juice fasting,started 4 days ago with juice,watermelon,water and a little mango(I just had to finish it up).Juice feels grate,but watermelon gives me pain in stomach…Can you tell me,Tom,what’s wrong with watermelon and did anybody experienced that before with watermelon,what’s a reason?May be my stomach is still not in a good condition?I am planing to go on just water as soon as I finish up with veggies in refrigerator.Is watermelon juice different then eating it regarding pain and heavy feeling in stomach?
Hi rukmini57
Watermelon has an acid that can cause stomach pain and cramps.
Honey dew and cantaloupe do not have that effect.
You may still be dealing with the stomach bacteria.
Alternating a few days of water fasting can have a beneficial result.
A 30 juice alternating to water fasting should repair your health problems.
An enema is also good. 2 on day one. 1 per day for the next 2 days then one every 1 to 3 days for the rest of the fast.
Hi Tom,
thanks for your grate advices-very helpful!I stopped watermelon and don’t even feel like drinking juice…I think I am going to go on water for a while…If I can make it to 30 days,(juice-water-juice)-that will be grate!I have only experience of 15 days water fast.
Haven’t done enema yet-going to the bathroom 2-3 times a day on juice-watermelon.I think I’ll do enema on 1 day of water fast(as soon as I finish up my veggies ).I have a lot of energy,my joints doesn’t hurt so much,I lost about4 pounds of weight.I have artritis on my middle finger of my left hand-it’s visible and joint is very swollen.Do you think fasting can cure that?
Hi rukmini57
Fasting can dramatically reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. Joint flexibility is increased.
A juice fasting of 30 days is recommended. With a change in diet, more veggies and fruits and ……cutting meat, coffee arthritis can be dramatically reduced of healed. A patient just told me he had sever arthritis which disappeared after changing to a vegetarian diet.
With fasting follow the body. Many start with drinking lots of juice and end up drinking water as they lose desire for juice.
Oh,yeah,thanks for inviting me to Phillipines and I will be delighted to come one day and volunteer for the hospital as well,but right now I have so much to do here…By the way,Tom,I uploaded my profile picture long time ago but somehow it doesn’t appear-waiting for approval…I clicked on my name on right hand but nothing happened…
Thanks,Tom,I think I will go for 30 days fast and drink just water in between if I feel so…About cuting on meat-I am vegetarian for the last 30 years,just added some fish in my diet(very rare)last couple of years…I don’t drink coffe,but green tea every day…I think my arthritis is inherited from my grandmom and mom(but they are meat eaters!)…Another reason I think,could be tomatoes,cheese,overeating,sugar(in commercial cookies and chocolate,which I ate sometimes),cold can trigger it too,I think…
Help needed, please!
This is my second water fast, and I’m currently on day 10. I have been stuck at the same weight for the last 3 days now!! I started my period yesterday, so I’m trying to attribute this stall to that, but it’s still rather upsetting. On my first 14 day fast I lost almost 18 lbs, and I’m currently only at a 12 lb loss.
I have had tea with honey at night the last few nights to help with the taste in my mouth and the dry spitty mouth, but I’ll stop that. I did the same occasionally on my first fast with no problem.
I’m trying to remain positive to push through this, I really just want to be rid of this fat and I was doing so well.
Has anyone ever stalled on a water fast? I haven’t seen this in anything I’ve read so far.
Hi Astauser
The body refines its caloric usage and that can slow weight loss. You could add cayanne pepper. Do a site search on the top right.
Hello, my name is Shamikka. I’m on my first day of water fasting and i’m going through alot. I have the worst headache ever and i’m feeling so discouraged!! I know that i need to do this for myself mostly, but also for my kids. I have been dealing with depression for ten years and now i feel like it is at it’s worst!! I have three kids and i love them so much, and now i feel like i’m a bad mother and i’m being selfish because i get irritated quick and i can’t do the normal activities with them that i usually do. I don’t wanna give up and i won’t but i do need some tips or words of encouragment from someone who knows what i’m going through.Please, someone help me out in some way. I read almost everything about water fasting and i’ve done it before some years ago but it seems so hard now, why??
COCOABUTTASKIN
Hi Smamikka
You should by a juicer and try juicing first before water fasting. Next you need to fill your mind with positive statements.
If you fast correctly, it can be a transformational experience. Depression is to see the glass half empty. To beat it you have to fill the mind with every positive thought.
Im starting my fast this morning..and i am sooo hungry. What can i do to help me with this hunger? I am on a juice fast and trying to one day be a vegetarian. But i would like to start fasting inbetween because i have heard of the many miracles that can happen and healing my body. Any suggestions??
Since it looks like this is still a current thread here goes: I am just into day 2 of what I expect to be a 90 day water fast. I will pay attention to my body if I need to end sooner but I really am dedicated to the 90 days. I did a 49 day fast in college many many years ago. I am 51 now. My last fast was for only 4 days about a year ago. I have a lot of weight to lose and that is one reason I am going on the fast (to help with reducing) but also for many other reasons, namely to reclaim my health. I have a lot of health issues mostof which I have read that fasting has “cured.” I also love God and feel it will be of great spiritual benefit. I have a strong addiction to food so I needed to go on a water fast.
Day 1 wasan’t too bad until about 5:30 on where I kept having all the thoughts driving me nuts. I wanted to eat and lots of conversations took place in my mind. But I am resloute. I want to really live this next part of my life. I have become very limited due to my obesity and illness that has come from mostly being so overweight. I am in a positive frame of mind. Day 1 got a little brutal for a couple hours but I got through it. Day 2 is fine so far. I am reading information to keep my head in the right place. Thanks for listening and sharing my journey.
Blessings, Brenda
Hi Brenda
The first few days are the worst so if you can get through that it gets easier.
Hi, Brenda again… that 49 day fast in college is a typo… I did a 40 day fast (not 49). Thanks, Brenda
Thanks Tom,
I am now in my 3rd day. Yesterday was a bit tough, felt light-headed, crampy and achy with headaches a good bit of the day. My mind also played with me a bit but all in all, although it was that pleasant I was & am fine.
I bought your ebook “Fasting” yesterday. The link for more info about it was broken so I was hoping I wasn’t throwing my money away and it was worth it. Wow! I am so glad I purchased it. I have read a couple books on fasting in the past and found either they are written by one who doesn’t recommend more than 10 to 14 days or by a medical professional that has excellent info but it reads life a medical journal. Your book is excellent. Much extremely helpful information written with heart and it is an excellent read. I am so thankful to have found it! What a gift it is to me and the timing is truly God directed.
I am considering instead of 90 days on water only doing 60 days on water and the last 30 on juice. Any thoughts/comments on that?
Thanks & Blessings, Brenda
Hi Brenda
A person with a slow metabolism can easily do 60 days on water. For a fast metabolism 10 days feels like years of fasting and is very difficult. I always recommend starting with juices to build up mineral and vitamin reserves. Also a few days on juice along the way guarantees against health problems. Ending with juice is also preferable. Also if the faster has to endure stress, or energy demands juices are perfect. On a long a long water fast always watch out for any yellowing of the skin indicating liver stress. Thanks for the compliment on the book.
hi tom,
i want to log an entry here. i am typing one-handed because a very tiny 3 week-old boy has possession of my right arm, which is asleep. a week ago i was preparing for my water fast, because i saw august as a fairly slow month for me, even with the kids on summer vacation. god threw back his head and laughed, long and hard, as he always does when he finds out i’m planning some r&r, and then sent me my daughter and her newborn son to take care of. they are in bad shape and need help. not complaining-what is the point? i have made it my life’s work to find and enjoy the humor in every situation, unless it’s downright macabre. i don’t know how reliable my thinking is right now. needless to say-my water fast was postponed a couple of days.
i was feeling ok last week on the master cleanse, but i’m sick of it now. the last few days were so chaotic i was really upping the syrup. i wanted to drink it straight! i have a terrible headache that is threatening to become a migraine. i have never gotten the coated tongue or bad breath that everyone complains of. in fact, by day 3 of a fast, i wake up in the morning with the taste of whatever juice i had the night before, even though i brushed my teeth. my tongue is always the color of whatever i was drinking.
we’ll see what happens on a water fast, which i am attempting to start today. i think it will help me with the stress, because i don’t seem to have so much adrenalin pumping around in my system. i am calmer. i went to bed very ill last night, shaking, nauseous, faint, and chilled, but was up again after 3 hours, unable to sleep. i took a turn with the baby-we are trying to give his mother a few nights of sleep. she really needs it, and the baby needs a calm caregiver.
what the heck am i doing? i want to lose some weight, get rid of the sinusitis and arthritic twinges, and stop and assess the state of affairs physically and spiritually. it doesn’t look as if i’ll get time for quiet reflection-i live a noisy, chaotic life. tom-when did you last water fast-and did you publish a journal of the experience anywhere?
wish me luck with day 1. i feel awful right now.
claire t
Hi,
Claire T again-I’m getting sicker and more stressed, and quite depressed, and my digital scales report that overnight, while doing household chores and holding the baby, I have GAINED 2.5 lbs. I didn’t even drink very much water. Meanwhile the baby’s constipated from the formula, my daughter’s taken off, and there’s a bench warrant out for her boyfriend-I’m really nervous and stressed out-I am spewing unsavory personal details because I’m too exhausted to care, and I’m wondering if I could actually hurt myself trying to fast right now. I just want to check into a secret motel, have a hot meal and shower and pass out for 2 days. Maybe a water fast is the right thing to do-I’ll be so disappointed if I miss my chance.
It can’t hurt me can it?
Hi Claire
Stress and water fasting is a bad combination. The body is running on adrenaline. You cannot hurt your body but it is not comfortable or easy to do. A times like that I usually get away and find time to pray until I get my peace back. It is also difficult to maintain discipline in an emotional storm. Avocados are great for babies, just mush or blend them.
It is almost 7 p.m. of day #5. Thankful to be at this place. I have lost 17 lbs in 5 days! I have a whole lot of weight to lose so this fast is giving me a good jump into getting healthier. I can already tell a difference in my energy level and I have had severe pain in one of my feet that disappeared for 2 days. I was out in the heat a while today and got too hot & a bit worn out and had the pain back but I know it is a matter of time that much healing will take place in me. Had lunch out of town at a very cool restaurant I had found with my (now 27 yr old) so & family and stayed on the water fast with no problem. My son is aware and fine as he has done some long fasts. I hust told family I was doing a detox thing for my health and they were surprised I wasn’t eating anything but they accepted it and we had a wonderful time! Wohoo… I feel so much hope towards getting my health back!
Blessings, Brenda
Hi Brenda
Those are great results and it just get better the longer you fast.
Day #6 10:30 p.m. Thanks Tom, I feel so much hope. It has been quite a day! On the tough side it has been a bit tough today, not mentally but physically. I had a couple spurts of energy and got a few things done which I am very happy about.Other than that I have had bad headaches, body aches and stomach aches. Plus the nauseous type feeling from time to time. About an hour ago I had a very very uncomfortable hollow feeling of my stomach being empty accompanied with the nausea. That was not fun but thankfully it passed within a few minutes. I have been very tired at times and had to take a couple naps during the day. On the plus side I have been so full of hope! Believe it or not I have now lost 25 lbs! A jump of 8 lbs in a day! Crazy but I have weighed several times through the day just to make sure it was accurate LOL. And it is! I have a whole lot of weight to lose so I imagine that has really been a huge factor in the 25 lbs in 6 days weight lost. I am doing a lot to keep my mind in check. Reading and listening to DVDs etcetera. Still very resolute and very grateful. My foot is still doing great and I am so thankful to have found this site. It was just another confirmation that I am doing the right thing for my healing & this path to reclaiming my life! Words cannot describe all I am feeling right now. God is so amazing and I am a very blessed woman.
Blessings, Brenda
Hello all.
Im at the end of day six on a water/juice fast and for a few hours now ive been experiancing pins and needles in my fingers so im just wondering if anyone else has had this so i know if its got something to do with the fast or something else all together.
Thankyou
Hi Shadowpuppet,
Water fasting usually reduces blood pressure and that can affect cellular oxygenation and the result can be pins and needles. Try some cayanne pepper.
It is 4:15 a.m. of day #8 Thank God! Day 7 was pretty brutal – felt rough for much of it and expected this awesome day. (#7 God’s perfect #) End up getting a bit depressed over several things. Had a lot to do but all inside so I slep a whole lot both because I was tired and too escape the pain and depression. I don’t get down very often. I was feeling sorry for myself for a while there as I was dealing with emotions and couldn’t eat! Yep addiction raised it’s ugly head today but God is good and I am on track with His help. Just glad the day is over and I am firmly planted into day #8 now.
Yawn… was up all night working on some research. I just wanted to say hey I am still out here on this water fast & still resolute to see it through to distance! Blessings All, Brenda
Day #9 of my water fast – Woohoo!
First of all it is 10:15 a.m. so I am still at the beginning of the day but so far I feel really good today. Minor aching but I was in pain most of the time prior to the fast so in comparison I am doing great today. Yesterday (day 8 of the fast) was my best yet. I had my moments of periodic crampiness etc. and tiredness (had to take a couple hr long naps) but other than that wow I felt great! Today I have a couple errands to run and then I am kind of giving myself to reading up on juice fasting and re-eating plan with Tom’s books. I just finished the “Fasting” ebook and am starting the “Eating In Freedom” this afternoon. I am on a 60 day water fast to be followed by a 30 day juice fast. Then I will go on the re-eating plan.
As of this morning I have lost 35 LBS! (I can hardly believe it myself!) I have found that I will drop 5 to 8 lbs one day and then the next the scale shows no wieght loss followed by another big drop the following day, so I just look at the whole picture not the particular day. But to say I am pleased is a major understatement. For anyone here please know I am very overweight so I attribute the large weight loss to the fact that I am very obese. I don’t want someone at 180 LBS all depressed because they aren’t dropping the weight that fast. Be happy because I have more than your entire weight to lose!!! Bit I am doing so well and getting surges of energy that I haven’t felt for a long time. I can’t believe I am seeing as much improvement as I am already.
When I get the aches, pains, lightheadedness or bad yuck feeling in my stomach etc. I just know it will pass soon & my body is working on getting rid of toxic junk and working on healing me from the inside out. That puts it into a whole different light for me. OK didn’t mean this to get so long. I have a couple errands I have to run today so I have to get going here in a bit. I used to be nervous about having to get certain things done due to my health and lack of mobility. But I am doing so much better that I am hopeful that today will be a pleasant surprise and not as hard on me. I’ll let you know tomorrow.
Thanks for the support. I continue to be full of hope and gratitude. God is amazing & so very thankful to be on this path as challenging as it is at times. I am hoping I am going into my easier time period. 
Just want to learn about the juice fasting and re-eating so I am prepared when the time comes. For now I’ll just keep on keepin’ on…
Blessings All, Brenda
Barely in to day #10 of water fast. I fell alseep for about an hour as was really tired. Woke up in a panic as I had a very vivid dream that I was eating KFC’s new grilled chicken and some of their vegis. In the dream someone brought the to me and I was eating them and had eaten almost 2 xhixken breasts and starting into the vegis and then I freaked out as I realized I was in day 9 almost 10(I actually thought that inthe dream) of a water fast and just tripped out. I was so upset! Wow… I was so relieved when I woke up and realized it was just a dream. Every once in a while I want to eat so badly… My mind goes crazy for a minute until I remind myself all the benefits of what I’m doing and that it is a small sacrifice for the pay offs. Wow that was rough… Day 9 was a good day. Got the errands done. Was very tired when I got home but I did well and had to walk a little further than I have in a long while. My back hurt a bit but I did it!
OK… Yawn… going back to bed. So glad I amin day 10 now!
Day #11 water fast – Please excuse the misspelling etc. of the above entry – I was half asleep when I wrote it. I think I just needed to get that dream off of my mind. It was pretty intense and felt very real. I was so thankful to realize it was just a dream. I am barely in to day 11 and things are going well. Day 10 went well. I think at this pointing getting my health back is so important to me that even the thought of someone or something short changing that (even me) horrifies me. I am committed to seeing this through.
Before I started this fast the thought of eating mostly vegis and fruits, basically vegetarian with chicken & fish… it was something I wanted but didn’t think I could ever do. Now the though of it is becoming more appealing to me. I am not there yet but I am thinking about it so that is a step in the right direction. ‘Night & Blessings, Brenda
Hey okay so its officiall todays my first day of juice fasting. I was on here about a month ago talking about a V8 fast for all of you that didnt think it was possible it is. I went on about a 14 V8 fast with nothing but V8, tea and water. This was just to test myself to see if I could do it. Its not so much the physical pain as it is the mental pain. I had lost physical aches after about the 4-5 day of my trial run. I had numerous dreams going into my second week about eating food. They say in America you see 500 ads a day im gearing 90% are about food so you can see what i mean. Im 20 so I can do some of these trials. I also did a trial on strictly water and GNC vitapaks both the superathlete and the greentea vitapaks I bought a 50 pack of the sport and a 50 pack of the greens GNC vitapaks. Vitapaks are suppose to have all the vitamins you need for the day and its a little grab bag of your nutrients for the day. Let me know just say this trial run was a complete disaster do not do it very very bad. GNC vitapaks made me feel sick and not normal. I was having unusual fast heart beat very very dangerous. Im still in my 20′s so I like to try new things. If your just starting out your self in the juicing diet I suggest the V8 over a vitamins overload. I learned my lesson on that. I know have several tools including a heart rate monitor and body fat indicator which i bought off line for my official fast. So today is going to be my first day August 1st 2009 im 6’4″ 235lbs my goal is 200lbs. I will reach it the biggest thing you need to remember is that its not your body aches and pains (those will go away) its your mind pain. By mind pain I mean the agony of watching everyone and everything else eat but you. Its changing the way you think that is going to do it. Hope this helps I will post the end of my day later on tonight for all those interested stay tuned~SB
Hi SbInstructor
Great to have you with us. Looking forward to your posts.
Okay first day so far looking good. Im feeling find. I have done several short fasts before so i know the routine. I will have a photo link of my fridge of V8′s and the other herbals im taking. Remember when dealing with herbal vitamins guys even if they are organic they can create problems such as faster heart rate and since you know what kind of boat i was in the earlier post you know im being more precautions now no vitamin overloading just immune system, omega 3 and cod liver oil. Here are the specs
Day 1
Weight: 235lbs
Drinks: Water & V8
Other: Immune,Omega3,C.L.O.
On my seocond day there isnt that much to say pretty normal day just drinking water and v8 took some other supplements not strictly vitamins. No loss. I attribute this to water gain ive increased my water intake a lot since starting my fast.
Day 2
Weight: 235lbs
Drinks: Water & V8
Other: Immune,Omega3,C.L.O.
Sorry posts are coming in so late staying busy and active. I rollerbladed … if thats the word 6 miles today. I was feeling a lot of energy today I feel good. The usual V8 and tea all day nothing else. I will maintain that. Although I have noticed that the V8 has 680mg of sodium *dont buy v8 normal cans buy the low sodium my mistake i have a fridge of 100+ normal V8′s so looks like ive missed the boat on that one haha. Anyways how is everyone else doing im only on day 3 but I found and if you havent started doing this yet start posting online here do each day what your weight is if you care to share no one will judge you you can also just do a _23lbs or _83lbs that way you can keep the first digit to yourself keeps everyone safe i suppose. =) any how I feel a surge of energy today i think that with lack of food and sleep my bodies pumping me up on adrenalin which isnt good period but will make me crash once it wears off. Anyways long story short here are the stats.
Day 3
Weight: 231lbs
Drinks: V8, Water, Tea
Other: Immune supplements, Omega3, C.L.O.
Its a 4lb loss its okay i know its mainly water weight.
Water Fast Day #15 Just popping to say I am still out here and the water fast is going well. I have lost 43 lbs in 15 days! I have had absolutely nothing except for filtered water & 4 tylenols in the last 15 days. Again, I plan to water fast 60 days, followed by a juice fast of 30 days. Then I will carefully re-enter into an eating process. When I starter this fast I weighed 435. Today I weigh 392 (I lost only 40 lbs prior in 6 months so the weight dropping off so quickly is very encouraging.) This is the first time I have revealed my weight. I lost over 250 lbs a few years ago and ended up gaining it all back after going through a tragedy in my personal life. My health is getting better each day. I experience headaches and other pains and such but I just remind myself of all the good things that are taking place inside of me and it keeps me going. SO there you go, I am as committed as ever. I am not sure how others feel about it but I would think V8 would impede weight loss and the cleasing process with the processed salt etc. Just my 2 cents. If you are going to work this hard at this why not do what those who have gone before you have found to be most effective> If you don’t want to do a water fast do the pure juice (using a juicer) fast. If you don’t have a juicer you could purchase one with the savings at the grocery store you will have with your fast. Just my 2 cents. Check with the expert Tom.
Thanks & Blessings All, Brenda
Nothin unusual about today.
Day 4
Weight: 229lbs
Drinks: V8, Water, Tea
Other: Immune supplements, Omega3, C.L.O.
Day 16 of water fast. Good news I have lost 45 lbs. Bad news I am miserable today. Feel like an out & out addict. It is very irritating. I have no food in the house. I gave all of my perishables to my son right after I started the fast & all my nutri-system food (I was doing previous to the fast) & organic staples I have packed up. I am moving the week-end of October 11th so I decided to pack up the food & my appliances, dishes etc.. I am single (divorced) and live by myself so that has made it much easier. Kudos to people who have to fix meals for family members. I am so glad I don’t have to deal with that. I am also impressed that Sbinstructor roller bladed 6 miles on day 3. That is incredible. I feel tired a lot. I get surges of energy usually that are awesome. But today I have felt lethargic and had to take a couple long naps during the day. Now I am up and tired but can’t go to sleep. I miss food terribly. I crave tomato soup or tomato juice. Sbinstructor’s V8 & tea sound like heaven LOL. I know this is the path I need to take. This has been a tough day physically also. I have felt pretty rough most of the day, achy, sick to my stomach and just yucky. That couple with what feels like depression has just been too much. And I can’t eat my way out of it!
I remember trying to help a former employee (I was his manager) that was living in a recovery home. He had been a crack addict and had lapsed several times before he got himself together and remained off of it for months. I remember in first few months at times his emotions would go crazy and he would have outbursts. I called him in mutiple times. He was an excellent employee but it was getting out of control and hindering the office atmosphere. I talked to him for a while. I realized he was literally learning to cope with life in general without the crack or alcohol. It was like he was literally learning how to deal with life instead of avoid it. Then tonight that came back to me and this huge floodlight went off in my head! Even though there are no outbursts from me, I am calm… Inside my head I am crying out. Voices try to rationalize why I should be juice fasting and then eating well and no longer water fasting. If I thought that was God speaking to me… Fine. But it isn’t. It is food screaming out at me. I have made it my friend, used it to cope, to feel better, to treat myself, for entertainment. And I feel abandoned and sad and kind of pitiful. I won’t cave in because I want my life back too much and I know this is a God led fast. But I need to get a hold of my mind. This struggle is awful. I am kind of aggravated with myself. My son said when he was on his 30 day fast he dealt with this also. And it was normal and I should be proud of myself not aggravated. I am going to spend some time in prayer now as I feel sad and literally want to cry. I am sure I will feel more at peace after spending some time with God. SOrry this is such a downer but it is where I am, so I am trying to be honest. Thank God I am in day 16. Praying I can get to sleep soon. It is 3:10 a.m. Here. Blessings All, Brenda
Day 16 Update: OK that super tough day 15 is over and I am into day 16. It is 5:00 p.m. here now. I wanted to post again to say I am glad I posted the above post because it was a hellish day & in being honest I think it is important to tell both sides. I have only had 2 major horrible days where the physical ough stuff merged with the mental tough stuff so intensley that I literally went into a depressive state. That was on day 7 & yesterday day 15. Whew so glad that is behind me. I literally could not sleep last night and ended up passing out in exhaustion at 6:15 a.m. After 8 hours of sleep I got up refreshed, full of hope again and all is right with my world.
I wanted to post to let people know even the toughest of days pass. I am at 388 today which makes a grand total of 47 lb loss in 16 days. A long way to go but I am so thankful that I will be out of the 300s before you know it, of that I am certain! 
A couple things: Sometimes I feel like I am posting to myself as there is rare feedback here, to me anyway. Tom ocassionally posts replies especially in the beginning but other than that no one comments. I have thought a couple times maybe I should just do a post like Sbinstructor’s day 4 post with just the bottom line stats. But I see in the numbers that thousands view the 300+ posts so I figure people must be out there reading. I wonder sometimes if it helps to post or I should just give the aformentioned stats.
Secondly, I wish the photos we put on our profiles would be approved or whatever needs to happen so that it could be a little more personal when we post. The emails sent when a post is made instructs to include a photo on one’s profile. I did & saw where someone else stated they did also but they still haven’t shown up. Please consider that. (Thanks you.)
Thanks for anyone out there who does say a pray for all of us fasting whether it be on water or juice & for our health goals to be greatly improved.
Sincerest Blessings to All, Brenda
Work from anywhere! http://www.lordandcurtiss.ws/website
Hi Brenda,
We get 1000 visitors a day so many read but few post. The profiles photo should be automatic.
I will have to check out what is wrong with that.
We have having INTERNET problems and traveling soon.
You are doing great. Be encouraged and posting helps many. Some people read for months before their first post.
Nothin unusual about today.
Day 5
Weight: 229lbs
Drinks: V8, Water, Tea
Other: Immune supplements, Omega3, C.L.O.
Ware Fast Day 17 @ 6:00 a.m.
Thanks Tom, much appreciated. Your books have literally been a huge help in getting me through this and keeping my mind right. Understanding more abou the whole process has been huge for me. So I thank you so much for writing them! I was browsing for juice recipe and came upon a site where it had your article about juice fasting and the testimony of a friend of yours… can’t remeber his name… I think it was Gary W. Anyway it really touched me, his story, your part in it and his overal progress which was astounding to say the least.
Fasting report: Day 16 was great. Minor aches & pains, a couple stomach issues, light headache but all in all very mild! And I was alert & full of energy all afternoon & evening! It was great! I am currently at 388 lbs. A year ago I weighed 475 so that is progress! Since the beginning of this fast I have lost 47 lbs! Isn’t that crazy – very motivating! But the real break- thru is I can see a significant difference in my mobility! Woohoo! I literally am getting better every day. I am so thankful to be on this path… God is good! I truly am so thankful for His love and direction.
Here are my dates for the fast:
Water fast began Tues 7/21/09
30 day mark: 8/19/09
60 day mark: 9/18/09
First day of 30 day juice fast:9/19/09
30 day mark 10/19/09
Thanks & Blessings to All, Brenda
Hi Brenda,
This is all so encouraging. I believe that your life will be completely transformed.
Our God is giver of new beginnings.
Thanks Tom!
Water Fast Day 18: It is 12:30 here and I am doing well. Feel great and at peace. Still at 47 lbs lost, which is common for me. I seem to lose nothing to a lb for a day or two then drop 5 to 8 lbs (once 10 lbs!) the second or third day. I guess it is just how my system works. I had a real break-through last night but it was a tough experience.
The day went pretty well except I was exhausted all day & had bad stomach cramps several times throughout the day. The stomach cramps were from still passing junk from my intestines. It is not too bad, not gross as I have heard alot of people post about or that I have read about. And, it is in small amounts. But when I have to go in that way my stomach will cramp very badly and it takes a while to get it out of my system. Not a very fun process to say the least. But I understand it is part of my system cleansing itself of years of abuse. It is astounding to me I even still have anything in me after not eating anything whatsoever for the past 17 (now 18) days! I wonder how long it will be before that is done.
The day itself wasn’t too bad but I was so tired. It was opposite of the day prior where I enjoyed so much energy. I slept alot yesterday and felt like I didn’t get very much accomplished which always bums me out. My big struggle of the day happened while I was happy and watching the finale of “So You Think You Can Dance”. I see food commercials all the time and even the awesome looking ones from Applebees, Red Lobster and O’Charleys don’t bother me. In a way they just make me feel still connected with the world somehow. I am sure that sounds weird. On the other hand smelling food is a bit harder on me. I was watching the show, enjoying it and then a stupid commercial about Kraft Mac & Cheese came on. I don’t even like the boxed stuff except… Annie’s Organic pastas and sauces of which I have a box of Annie’s Organic pasta & three cheese (in a foil pouch). I have packed everything up but that is sitting on a table without the top even on the plastic bin it is in. (I am going to seal off the bin and set it beneath another packed bin). I got to the point that I wanted it so bad that it scared me. It is the first time I was tempted to the point that I really was afraid. I called
my son & we talked about how much I have improved already health wise & it brought me back to a place of gratitude. I was great after our talk. (He’s a great son.
Then later on that night I saw where my youngest sister wrote on her facebook about our father saying she missed her daddy etc. (It was his birthday yesterday.) He passed away 24 years ago.I immediately began to feel bad. It always bothers me we she says all these mushy things about him. She is almost 9 years younger than I and he was a very different father to her than he was to my other sisters. My sister 4 yrs younger had it much better than the 2 of us older sisters of which I am the oldest. Bottom line after I saw that my sister 4 yrs younger wrote she missed him too. I loved my father and forgave him years ago, literally cried all night giving it all to God & it doesn’t hurt me anymore. But there were many pretty bad things said & done to me by him. I was so miserable and I desperately wanted to eat the pasta & cheese again. I was confused by why I wanted to eat it so badly. I finally fell asleep exhausted and twisted up over it. I didn’t realize that it was a trigger for me, but after I slept for a couple hours it was like God just brought it to my understanding clear as a bell.
I felt guity because I couldn’t in honesty post that I missed him too. Because I don’t miss him in this life. Before he died he accepted the Lord and apologized for many things. I had long before forgiven him. I won’t say all the things he said and did to me but I will say that I realize it is the core of why I have had the huge weight gains in my life. Losing hundreds of pounds and then gaining it back. I never realized I had to recognize this deep thing inside of me and release it. I was thankful Daddy made his peace with God. I loved my Dad, but I never really knew him, I feared him and I loathed him and yet loved him too.
Last night for the first time I realized how huge this trigger was inside of me. I look so forward to be reunited with him without all the hurts and emotional wounds he carried in his life on earth that contributed to who he was for many years. It will be so awesome to experience who he really is deep inside and I look very forward to that.
I just realize that when I feel bad I desperately want to eat to feel better. Food has been my comfort. I have to learn to let God comfort me… not food. This has been a terribly personal entry but it is what it is. And I think I have now had an epiphany with God’s help of how food is so intricately tied up with my old hurts and damaged emotions. I feel I am very whole now but I have to learn to recognize those old triggers and learn to go to God and instead of using food to feel better and escape the pain of those memories.
Long and personal post but I think I have hit some understanding of deep rooted triggers in me. And I think this is a crucial key God has given me. God is not only good… He is amazing and I am thankful He guides me through it all day by day. Thanks for listening… God Bless You All, Brenda
Hi Brenda,
Revelation of inner pain and the roots are all part of the healing that leads to transformation. Clarity gives release.
hey everyone super tired been driving for 4 hrs went up to duluth 2 days ago and then just today drove up to brainerd i live in st paul but yesterday my day 6 entry slipped my mind so i will fill in for today and yesterday. time seems to be flyin.
Day 6-7
Weight: 227lbs
Drinks: no V8, lots of Water, some Tea
Other: cod liver oil, Omega3
Wow it is moments like this that help keep me motivated! It is 9 p.m. of day 18 water fast. (I had that super long heavy post earlier today.)
Just weighed myself… I am at 385 which means I have lost 50 lbs in 18 days!!! Woohoo! 3 hours from day 19 now… moving right along!
Blessings, Brenda
To Sbinstructor; Glad you made it bck safe & sound! SOunds like you are doing great! All the Best, brenda
Hello everyone, I’m back!
Today is day 1 of my water fast. This time I don’t have a disapproving boyfriend breathing down my neck to eat (he’s away on vacation). I’m very excited & I feel really good about it this time
I would like to continue my water fast for 40 days, but I’m going to start with 21 – thats 3 weeks. That puts me at Aug. 29th, my birthday & when my boyfriend returns. If at any point it gets to be too much for me, I will break my fast with a drink of juice & get right back on track continuing on with water only. I’m sure my insides are a lot like a toxic dump, so I plan to use an enema daily to help clean it up. I know it’s better to do 2 the 1st day, but it’s already getting pretty late in the day & I still haven’t done one yet. I always feel pretty sick after an enema, so it’ll be best for me to do them at bedtime. I’m pretty excited about ridding my body of all the toxins i’ve been poisoning it with all these years. I’m going to & feel so incredible! I can’t wait!
Tom – I was wondering if taking a multivitamin during my water fast helps, or hurts?
Brenda – You are such an inspiration! I’m so thankful that you are here to share your story with us! After reading about your progress, I feel like there’s nothing I can’t do! Of course I have God on my side to help me along the way, so I have nothing to fear
May God bless you all & help you on your fasting journey.
Hi Nikki
Supplements and water fast usually do not help and cause problems. Juice fasting yes, take lots. I just got back from picking up a client for our detox retreat here in Sagada so I will be fasting with her.
Thank you Nikki! Your reply really blessed me!
Water Fast Day #19: It is 6:00 p.m. of day 19 and I have to tell you that I feel pretty darn great!!! How awesome is that. Very easy going day. Very little pain of any kind! (I was riddled with pain daily before the fast for quite some time – over a year.) Wow, how awesome to feel this good, love it! Very very motivating! That coupled with hitting the 50 lb weight loss so far has me pretty happy indeed! As of yesterday afternoon I am weighing in at 385. I look very forward to breaking into the 200s! Once I get out of the 300s just as I said about the 400s, I will never ever be in them again!!!
My mobility has improved so much that I am putting on my Jamming DVDs (dancing type weight loss exercises shortly to see how much of it I can do! That is huge for me as before the fast I could barely walk to the bathroom and was always in severe pain. Oh yeah, hear that? That is a deep satisfying breath of hope and gratitude in knowing my life is improving & I am headed on down to a great weight for me and a healthy active lifestyle! Onward… God is good & I am blessed!
Blessings for Your Journeys, Brenda
Work from anywhere! http://www.lordandcurtiss.ws/website
Day 8
Weight: 226lbs
Drinks: no V8, lots of Water, some Tea
Other: cod liver oil, Omega3
Glad to hear everyone is doing good thanks brenda for the kind words and nikki sounds great nice to see you coming along. Funny story time. Okay so my mom and my cousin are on diets ill give a brief rundown of everyone.
Cousin: Ericka
Weight: 180lbs
Attribute: Hardworker, Clumsy, Funny
Age: 20
Mom: Andrea
Weight: 250lbs
Attribute: Caring, Thoughtful, Sarcastic
Age: 50
My mom and my cousin are both on diets because they seen me on one and kept saying that i was going to go anarexic (hardly) but it was pretty funny because my cousin was on this juice diet too i found out after she heard that I was on a juice fast so she came over and was just visiting and I was just visiting too because I was suppose to help my mom move a fish tank and plant a garden for a family get together anyways we were all talking in the living room and i was like im going to go make some tea and then my cousin was like im going to go make a smoothy and im like well that sounds healthy you know for me a smoothy is stricly fruits you know real strawberries, real blueberries, raspberries ect. Then I came into the kitchen to see her dumping in three large scoops of ice cream and mixing in cool-aid. I just took note but didnt say anything. Later after we all moved back in the living she mumbled that she just couldnt understand why she wasnt losing any weight. I almost lost it there *hahaha*. My mom and my cousin then went in a convo about how easy it is for guys to lose weight and how god had cursed them to lose weight hahahaha makes me laugh.
On to my moms funny story that same day before I left my mom and my younger sister who is 12 were in the kitchen right before I left I was just talking to my mom and she looked bored and moved to the refrigerator where she found a whole cake from my sis’s 12 birthday anyways keeping in mind she was still on her diet she proceeded to take out the cake and cut herself a large piece for both her and my lil sis. Needless to say she protests shes still on her diet. Hahaha my lord sometimes I feel bad.
My other sis who is 19 says the FDA puts something in the food to make it addictive. I do believe this to be a true fact. But if your on a diet please be on a diet hahaha (this post was all fun dont mean to offend anyone if i did, I just thought my two experiences were worth sharing)~ sb
SbInstructor
So sad, that story is replicated in millions of families throughout first world countries.
Hey what to you think of Intermittent Fasting?
Just eat every other day and on feeding days
only eat plant based diet.
No processed or manufactured foods. No meat/Dairy.
Just 100% RAW Greens,Veggies,and Fruit with occasional
no-salt seeds.
This is my diet anyway, just wanted to try only eating every
other day to give the digestive tract a break.
Plant based diet is very cleansing and detoxifying as it is
and it also digests quite easily and quickly.
I have a friend in California who has been doing this for better than a year and she feels fantastic.
But she doesnt eat plant based, just vegetarian.
I was fruitarian for 2 years after a master cleanse of 14 days.
And I was on top of the world, felt awsome and maintained a weight of 160 when before the master Cleanse I weighed 240.
Now Im back to 210 after dabbing back into the Standard American Diet now since this last christmas and have had a serious addiction to Dorritos and Dr. Pepper.
So 2 years fruitarian, back to 7 months now of junk food and soda I want to get back what I had.
I read about Intermittent fasting and it sounds like something I want to do along with once a month doing a 10 day
water fast. I read the book “The Miracle Of Fasting” by Paul Bragg 3 times now and I love that book.
Some say only fasting 24 to 36 hours has no benifits because the digestion doesnt shut down to heal and clean till day 3 but I think theres much benifit to fasting for any length beyond our sleep at night.
Also I see alot of talk on here of “hunger pangs” Im assuming thats the growling in the stomach.
Hunger is not felt in the stomach it is felt in the throat.
Ive never experienced true hunger but the growling in the stomach is simply digestion.
Something to think about when fasting those growlies are not hunger. At least from what Ive read around the web.
Nice site, very informative!
And I love the success stories!
Rob
Day 9
Weight: 225lbs
Drinks: no V8, mixed water and tea blend
Other: cod liver oil, Omega3
I’m on day 3 water only. My eyes were really red & bloodshot & my skin was kinda dry & peely the last couple of days. My eyes are looking better & my skin’s not so peely today but it’s getting rougher. I haven’t been using any lotion or skin products either, I figure they’re probably full of toxins as well. Hopefully I’ll be able to get my skin all nice & soft & smooth again soon. Does anyone out ther know? Does your skin get healthy again after fasting? Beginning last night I started feeling really run down. Today it’s getting worse. I’m very dizzy & weak, so I can’t do much. I nearly fainted at the grocery store so I think I’ll stay in for awhile, lol. I only get hungry when I see something that looks good, but the hunger passes quickly – thank God! I also started journaling & it makes a world of difference. It helps so much! I highly recommend it to everyone. I can right about all the foods I want to eat & it kinda gets that desire out of my system, it really is great. I had a dream last night that I was cooking & took a bite – forgetting about my fast. As soon as I ate it, I was devastated over my failure. Throughout the dream I got hungrier & kept eating whatever foods happened to be around. Boy was I happy when I woke up & reallized it was all just a dre
Hi Nikki
Blackouts can be prevented by getting down on one knee if. The sugar or coffee scrub, (do a site search) is amazing for creating youthful skin. A long juice fast is amazing for the skin. Water fasting less so.
Haha, it posted before I was finished. Anyway, I was glad it was just a dream & I am still on track
I still feel great about this & I know I’m going to succeed this time! I already am. I’m on day 3! When I first started on this site, I couldn’t get past day 1. I’d get to about 4 or 5pm. Then I’d get really hungry & binge til midnight. Then I’d start over everyday, very discouraging. This time, I’m definately going to make it! Although my plan has changed a bit.. For this 1st week I’m going to continue with water only. Then starting Sunday, I’m going to start adding freshly juiced lemon & cayenne to some of my water & nothing more for all of week 2. week 3, I will start adding freshly juiced fruits & veggies. Week 4 I will start eating some small amounts of fresh fruits & veggies. Week 5 if my weight stays on track, I will start adding other foods in small portions, 1 at a time. So that’s the plan now, I modified it so I won’t be weak & dizzy for 3 weeks. I’ve lost 6 lbs since Friday 
Thank you so much for all the great answers Tom! They are so helpful. I will continue my water fast for the rest of the week, hopefully… Then I’m going to move on to a long juice fast. Thanks again for all the help!
Went swimming today nothing major im pumped for 15 miles of rollerblading tomorrow though should be good times. Im amazed at the weight I lost today i dont even know if it is possible but I lost 2lbs in one day. I spent the entire day building a wall for my home and then did 40 lengths in the pool. Feeling healthier then ive ever felt. Starting football for my college here on the 15th so that should be good and my birthday is on thursday ill be 21 woohoo only thing is I dont drink
so yea not much of a victory I suppose but its all good. Anyways here are the specs everyone:
Day 10
Weight: 223lbs
Drinks: 1 Can V8, mixed water and tea blend
Other: cod liver oil, Omega3
after all i’ve read on here about not doing a water fast for the 1st time, I’m feeling alittle discouraged. last thursday evening i ate a small bowl of chili with tortilla chips & i’ve had nothing but water since. with all i read i can’t help but wonder if i should switch to juice? or start adding lemon to my water? honestly i think starting with juice would have ended quickly in failure for me. when i got on here the beginning of this year i was trying to do everything right, everything in order. so i tried a day of fruits & veggies, then moving on to a juice fast before trying a water fast. i never made it through a single day on juice. i think it just makes me hungry. the hunger was so overpowering i ended up binging like an animal. you would’ve thought i was a junkie. this is my 1st fast, no juice fasts under my belt yet. I probably shouldn’t have ended my final day before a water fast with chili, but so far, so good! i made it through 3 days so far! i guess switching to juice right now wouldn’t be the right thing for me after all, i’m going to wait til sunday. still thinking about adding a juiced lemon to my water & maybe some cayenne starting tomorrow. then again, maybe not… i think i’m going to throw up, if i can make my way to the bathroom. i am so unbelievably weak & dizzy i can hardly move. typing is such a workout! i don’t think i have a choice about eating or drinking anymore
looks like im about to be hurled into an unplanned dry fast. i hope this passes & i don’t stay sick like this.
Hi Niikki
You are experiencing the symptoms of rapid detoxification and for that reason I recommend juice for first time faster. Yes water fasting gets you over the hunger stage more rapidly. You could use the enema as that dramatically reduces hunger on a juice of water fast.
Congrats Nikki & Sbinstructor! It helps me so mast that you are both posting! COngrats to both of you for hanging in there and for your weight losses as well!
Nikki: I have an all natural moisturizer that I use on my face & another that is a natural body cream that I use on my hands & elbows. My skin on my knees was so dry at one point but I seem to be fine now.
Sbinstructor: It is sad/funny that people do those things and yet still don’t “see”. As Tom says, it happens alot. I think many times people see what they want to see. I am still amazed by how much you are able to do!!!
Day 21 Water Fast: I am actually only a few minutes to beginning day 22. The last couple days have been pretty tough. I have felt very sick and not much energy. I know I have a lot of health issues and my body is working to heal itself but I felt pretty awful. Horrible stomach pains, heatburn type feeling through my chest (awful feeling and painful) headaches and aches about everywhere esepcially back and shoulder & neck. Weird feeling in my neck. And nauseousness was pretty bad too. I ended up unable to sleep all night & slept from about 6 a.m. until almost 3 p.m. today. Better tonight but earlier tonight I went through a really bad mental struggle that almost did me in! I was thinking OK great 21 days, almost at 22 now. And then I though 38 days to go… That is where it began to unravel. I became overwhelmed by how long I had to go yet and just kind of fell apart. I am learning to cope with life without my drug of choice: food! I literally started crying I wanted to eat so badly. Then I was irritated with myself because I have come so far in 3 weeks and yet here I was struggling to keep it together. I finally call my son. (27 & wise beyond his years – somehow he knows what to say) He has done a 30 day fast recently and it was supposed to be a 60 day and he crunbled at 30 days and lost it so he knows what it feels like plus the agoney of stopping short insteada of walking it out. He reminded me again that I was too hard onmyself and I have come along way but for my well being I need to walk it out the whole 60 days. Anyway he helped me stop the misery I was in (totally mental). I even went here to the “Blowoing it thread” thinking it would help me to read where others messed up and regretted it but no one has posted on it! Lots of views.. no posts. LOL – I guess people don’t like talking about their defeats… But I wish more people would as it would help.
I am determined to walk this out though I have to say mentally (and at times physically) it can be pretty brutal. Sometimes I want to kick my butt for doing 60 days but it is what I felt led to do & I believe God-led so I need to walk it out. It is not easy but I will continue!
Progress: Now at 382 (Total of 53 lb loss in 21 days)
I walked around the store for 30 minutes this last week with no use of the electric chair at all!!! For people without limited mobility this may not seem huge but to me it is & I am so thankful!
Mobility much improved. Heel spurs gone. (Woohoo!) Arthritus in hands is greatly improved. Strength in hands improved 1000%! Hands & feet never swollen now and used to be badly swollen most of the time. My ankles, feet & hands are tiny like they used to be years ago! I have hope again! When I started I was afraid I would soon need a wheel chair. I never went to stores etc. Tried to go to the movies had to go from bench to bench. (Went with my son. Now: I am doing my own shopping (powder, mouthwash etc. no food
OK sorry for the “book”. And I agree with Nikki about the journaling… It helps me tremendously! I am going to do as my son suggested and write down all the reasons I am doing this so when I get weak I can pull it up and remind myself!
Thanks for hanging in there with me thus far.
Blessings All, Brenda
By the way I did spell-check that but evidently it didn’t copy or paste correctly so sorry for all the errors…
i want to throw up. i want to cry. this day is a miserable one for sure! but God will get me through it. it’s almost over i sure hope tomorrow is better
brenda: how ru holding up? please continue to keep us posted. everything u go through helps me to brace myself. ok i guess it’s kinda hard to brace yourself for this, but i sure feel a lot less alone!
Nikki, I am praying for you… I understand exactly what you are going through. I have bouts of those feelings as well… they are very hard. I am OK, but tonight was really tough. I got through it but I am wondering if attempting a 60 day water fast was setting myself up. I am on day 22 of my water fast & have not had anything but filtered water and 4 tylenol since I started on July 21st. late last night I at first was happy that I was almost at day 22 and then soon after got very depressed that I had 38 days to go. So much so that although I spoke with my son & got through the moment, I slept only an hour and have been up since reading and praying & trying to get my mind right. The reason I saw your post is I was looking through the testimonies to see how long it took people to heal of different things. I am struggling but I won’t give n because I don’t want to undo what I have done and end in a frenzy. I was thinking and praying about stopping the water fast and going to juicing and raw foods after 40 days. Then even 18 more days seemed brutal so then I started thinking about 30 days which is only 8 more days. I want to end the fast well and continue my weight loss and reclaiming my health (with God’s help)and not let it get the best of me and end poorly.
I am not sure what to do at this point. 30 days, 40 days? If Tom or anyone has any comments on this I would much appreciate it. Nikki, It is tough but as you know the really tough stuff is the body cleansing itself and rebuilding. I have been through some awful times and for a couple days went through a very tough episode again. But I have to keep reminding myself WHY it feels so bad… because healing is taking place and the process of removing toxins and rebuilding the cells is not always an easy one.
Praying for you even now Nikki… hang in there and don end it until you have your wits about you and do it the way you know it will all benefit you best, you know?
30 days, 40 days? I just don’t think it wise for me to try for 60 days at this point. I know Tom advised against such a long first fast especially a water fast. I did a 40 day fast when I was in college many many years ago (I am 51) But in the last 5 years I have done one water fast about a year ago and only got to 4 days. So this has been an endeavor of desperation and faith. (Sounds weird… but it has..) I just want to end it well and continue in my journey. The 60 days feels like to much at this point…
Blessings to Nikki & All, Brenda
Hi Brenda
Considering the amazing healing you are experiencing I would continue on the fast.
You have lots of reserves in the fat.
A short period on some juice would boost your nutrition.
For people with lots of excess fat, 40 to 60 days of water fasting is quite easy.
Tom
Water Fast Day 22:
To Nikki – I hope you made it past your crisis and I didn’t make it any worse…
I did make it past mine. I couldn’t go to sleep again and was feeling rough but passed out at 7 a.m. finally and slept for 7 hours. I now feel right with the world and totally am fine. I think when I/you/maybe anyone is feeling so bad physically that it affects the mental side of things as well. I was having a tough time then spoke to my son and he told me later he screwed up the end of his 4th day by eating at O’Charley’s with a friend. He intended to go and not eat but that didn’t happen. I acted fine on the phone and was there for him but it put me in a bad place mentally as I was struggling before that. That coupled with feeling rough physically kind of sent me over the edge… Plus I think I keep waiting for this easier time period which only comes a day or so here and there but outnumbered by the rough stuff. I mean a bottomless cavern type edge! LOL & Yikes! I guess the lesson learned is I am totally fine today. It is like the storm has passed (for now) and I am left standing and everything is intact and I am so grateful.
At the end of my storm early this morning I cried out to God to show me how long I should do this water fast part of my “reclaiming my health mission”. I cried and told Him if He wanted me to do 60 days I would, but please show me if it should be 30, 40, 60… He is the one to chose not me. As of yet I don’t know… Still welcome comments. Please let us know how you are Nikki and I hope & pray you are feeling better.
Progress: Still at 382 as of this morning (53 lbs lost)
Blessings All, Brenda
Dear Tom,
Thank you for website, may God bless you.
I’d like to share my post; last month I embarked on a 30 day fast, I did about 18 of it. I lost about 20 lbs.
I started out with a smoothie like drink (spirulina and chlorella) 32 ounces and endless glasses of water for 4 days (I don’t have a juicer).After this I felt ready to water fast, so I did, for the next 14 days.
Some days were better than others; on the bad days I got a shot of wheatgrass for extra energy and once each week I got a dairy free smoothie mango+banana. It was quite the power surge after just three sips.
Now for the unceremonius end-of-the-fast:
I have this salt called himalayan crystal salt that is supposed to have 84 minerals,I thought that forduring the water fast would be a good time for the mineral absorption. So day 13 and 14(of the water fast), I dissolved some salt in my water. Day 13, I was energetic (wheatgrass + salt)I started passing some dark brown mucousy stuff, not too much. (sorry for the graphics). Day 14, I repeated the salt+water+wheatgrass shot. Same dark brown mucousy-even darker this time. Like previously clotted blood or something (???)This scared me so I ended the fast. See before, when i still had bm, it was green (spirulina, chlorella and wheatgrass effect). I didn’t understand how it got brown all of a sudden. (Have you had anyone go through this or anyone with peptic ulcers?)
By the end of the day, my stomach was killing me. I have ulcers, but they hadn’t flared up in years.I was bedridden for 7 days-I had no groceries (I had planned 12 more days of water fasting & I’m vegetarian, I didn’t want anything to spoil). Anyway, I eventually broke my fast on milk and bananas (was soothing but lasted about ten minutes).
When I gained energy, I bought mylanta and prilosec, which gave me more enrgy to get up and buy aloe vera juice. (This really helps, by the way. I did 2 parts to 1 part rice milk until I got better.(Rice milk was the only other thing I had in the fridge, after the dairy milk ran out)
I never did understand what went wrong with me, I was doing so well on my fast.
Anyway, I’d like to fast again, I have 80 lbs to lose, and I’d like to lose it by year end 5 months. I’m fasting again, this time the plan is to do juice and water for 7 days and then 30 days water(I’m on day two and I’m experiencing the heavy head, bad breath, tired symptoms already, but I know this will pass)
This time, I’m going to put a capfull of aloe vera in every 1 32oz bottle of water (just in case) until the end. Is that okay?
Also, I’d like to add 1 cup of organic green 2 every two days for energy. Can I?
What is the deal with that salt? It’s supposed to be good, no? I don’t want to awaken any healed ulcer, but I need to purge my body of the bad food that followed the milk and bananas-(bread, eggs, more eggs, processed soy burgers, sandwiches etc)
Lastly, what do you think will be the effect of cayenne pepper on my stomach lining?
I’ll appreciate your answers.
Thanks.
PS: I’ll also document my current fasting experience.(7 days juice + water) and 30 days water (plus aloe vera?)