What is Fasting? Fasting is a period of abstinence from all food or specific items.

Fluids are
consumed in sufficient quantity to satisfy thirst and physiologic requirements. During the absence of
food, the body will systematically cleanse itself of everything except vital tissue. Starvation will occur
only when the body is forced to use vital tissue to survive. Although protein is being used by the body
during the fast, a person fasting even 40 days on water will not suffer a deficiency of protein,
vitamins, minerals or fatty acids. In the breakdown of unhealthy cells, all essential substances are
used and conserved in a most extraordinary manner. There is an unwarranted fear of fasting that
strength diminishes from the catabolism of proteins from muscle fibers. Even during long fasts, the
number of muscle fibers remains the same. Although the healthy cells may be reduced in size and
strength for a time, they remain perfectly sound.

A. J. Carlson, Professor of Physiology, University of Chicago, states that a healthy, well-nourished man
can live from 50 to 75 days without food, provided he is not exposed to harsh elements or emotional
stress. Human fat is valued at 3,500 calories per pound. Each extra pound of fat will supply enough
calories for one day of hard physical labor. Ten pounds of fat are equal to 35,000 calories! Most of us
have sufficient reserves, capable of sustaining us for many weeks.

Rest is understood to be a big factor in enhancing recovery, as it is when the body is at rest that it is
able to direct the most energy towards the various chemical and mechanical processes of
detoxification. When fasting, a person experiences recovery at a rate that is swifter than normal. He is
ridding his body of toxins and excesses; allowing the body to use its own wisdom to healthfully
reorganize itself from the atomic level. As the toxic load is reduced, the functioning of every cell is
enhanced. In the same way that vital nerve energy is accumulated during a night's sleep, the faster
builds nerve energy through rest, sleep, and detoxification. 

The human body has many ordinary modes of achieving elimination: the liver, lungs, kidneys, colon,
etc. When these are overloaded, the body will resort to "extra ordinary" methods of elimination:
boils, mucous and other discharges, sweats, vomiting, diarrhea, and many others. Should elimination
be impossible or uneconomical of body energy, the toxic overload will go into storage forms in the
joints, vessels, muscles, organs; almost any tissue in the body. While fasting, the body is highly
conservative of its energy and resources. During this deep and profound rest, toxin intake and
production are reduced to a minimum while autolysins and elimination proceed unchecked. Anabolic
processes such as tissue and bone healing also proceed at a maximal rate during the fast.

In the body, the first stage of cleansing removes large quantities of waste matter and digestive
residues. The first few days of a fast can be rough due to the quantity of waste passing into the blood
stream. The tongue becomes coated and the breath foul as the body excretes waste through every
opening. After the third day of the fast, there is little desire for food. The second stage is the cleansing
of mucous, fat, diseased and dying cells, and the more easily removed toxins. As the fast continues,
the cleansing process becomes more thorough. The last stage is the cleansing of toxins that have been
accumulating in your cellular tissue from birth, and the microscopic tubes that carry vital elements to
the brain. Cleansing of the last layer is only possible through a combination of juice fasting, water
fasting, and a healthy diet high in raw foods. To overcome a severe disease like cancer, it is important
to continue through a series of fasts, to the point where the full scouring action of catabolism
removes the disease from the tissue.

During extended fasts the body removes: dead, dying and diseased cells; unwanted fatty tissue, trans-
fatty acids, hardened coating of mucus on the intestinal wall; toxic waste matter in the lymphatic
system and bloodstream; toxins in the spleen, liver and kidney; mucus from the lungs and sinuses,
imbedded toxins in the cellular fibers and deeper organ tissues; deposits in the microscopic tubes
responsible for nourishing brain cells and excess cholesterol.

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Nearly everyone who fasts, discovers the same thing, that when they fast they actually have no
hunger and more energy than they normally have. It is indeed liberating to find out that if we let go
and trust that we will be taken care of. Fasting is the simplest, easiest and most effective way to find
out that we do indeed have the power and freedom to heal and take control of our bodies.

Why Fast? Probably the most important reason is that the body uses quite a bit of energy to digest
food, and when fasting this energy becomes available for other uses. In the fasting state, the body will
scour for dead cells, damaged tissues, fatty deposits, tumors, abscesses, all of which are burned for
fuel or expelled as waste. The elimination of these obstructions restores the immune system
functionality and metabolic process to an optimum state.  Fasting restores good digestion and
elimination, and peristaltic action is quickened. Fasting allows a deep, physiological rest of the
digestive organs, and the energy saved goes into self-healing and self-repairing. By eliminating
obstructions, by cleansing, detoxification, and purifying the intestines, the blood, and the cells, we can
overcome many of our physical ills or handicaps as well as getting a boost in energy. Fasting not only
removes obstructions and helps the body to heal itself, it is also rejuvenating and life-extending.
These resulting benefits can have lasting affects in your mental and emotional health.

The other very important aspect is that your self-awareness will be elevated. If you are sick and
depressed, then this might be the most important thing you can try in your healing program, because
it gives you immediately an energy boost and increased awareness which might allow that you see
things more clearly, allowing you the first step out of your sickness and onto the path of recovery.
While fasting you become more aware of your body process, your life and with everything you are
doing. It becomes a period where you can evaluate all that you're doing more objectively, and you
naturally have more time for contemplation because you aren't using time amassing, preparing,
eating, eliminating and cleaning up all which is used to prepare food. You become more aware of
what your body likes and doesn't like when you start to eat again. You gain self-confidence in your
ability to control your life process, to set a goal and carry out an intention.

Fasting enhances mental acuity  Perhaps the most instructive testimony as to the acuteness of
mental powers during fasting comes from Dr. Herbert Shelton who supervised the fasting of more
than 40,000 people over a period of fifty years. His message is that the freer the body is of toxic
materials flowing through the blood and lymphatic system, the clearer is the ability to think.

These facts are due to physiological causes. Large amounts of blood and nervous energies have to be
sent to the digestive organs to digest a meal. If these energies are not required there, they may be
used by the brain for better thinking. This increase in mental acuity doesn’t usually happen until after
the first few days of a fast, because the body is busy cleaning out excess toxins and substances and so
the first few days can be a period of depression, with headaches and various pains as this process is
underway. This makes the first stage of fasting difficult but after the body has thrown off it’s load of
toxins, then the brain is fed by a cleaner bloodstream and the mental powers and clarity of thought
are extraordinarily increased and the other senses also become more acute. 

One’s mind becomes clearer and one’s ability to think and solve intricate problems is enhanced. One
is simply more alert, and one’s mind seems to open up into new fields. The mental and physical
senses are heightened, and often there can be a feeling of euphoria, especially during longer fasts.
Some, for the first time, will experience emotional stability. The reasons for this are multifold - the
elimination of the emotional dependence on food, exclusion of stimulating foods like caffeine,
processed sugars, recreational drugs, tobacco and trans-fatty acids, all of which can have a
devastating effect on delicate emotions.

Dr. Ehret stated an amazing fact at the turn of the 20th century. He said that, for a water fast to
awaken the higher mind functions, it had to be longer than 21 days. Fasting has a history of

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awakening intuitive senses, creativity, and deeper spiritual questions in those with enough
determination to get past the 21 day mark.

Healing  During a fast, a metamorphosis occurs. The body undergoes a tearing down and rebuilding
of damaged materials. For this reason, fasting is famous for its ability to rejuvenate and give the body
a more youthful tone. Why does fasting have such a powerful effect in healing the body? Fasting
dissolves diseased cells in a systematic manner, leaving healthy tissue. The result is a thorough
cleansing of the tube, membrane and cellular structures. There is a remarkable redistribution of
nutrients in the fasting body. It hangs on to precious minerals and vitamins while catabolizing on old
tissue, toxins and inferior materials.

Each cell of your body is a complete living entity with its own metabolism. It needs a constant supply
of oxygen and sufficient nourishment. When due to nutritional deficiencies, sluggish metabolism,
sedentary life, overeating and consequent poor digestion and assimilation of food, lack of fresh air
and sufficient exercise and rest, our cells are deprived... they start to degenerate... the normal process
of cell replacement and rebuilding slows down and your body starts to grow old, its resistance to
disease will diminish and you become ‘sick’. 

Animals will naturally fast when they are sick or injured, and when we are ill, our hunger diminishes.
If we get out of the way and allow nature to take its course, we will find that we can heal from any
problem. Since the dawn of recorded time, in fact since before the word "doctor" came into existence,
priests provided sanctuaries where people could go to fast. Whereas modern medical practitioners
admit that they have no cures, only drugs that mask the symptoms while causing yet other symptoms
to appear.

“I had a medical practice for 20 years in NYC, supervised hundreds of long fasts, and I found that the
physical healing or weight loss was but a pleasant side effect. What really happened is that the
person got in touch with their higher self, their true self, and came to the experience that healing can
take place at every level, simply by letting go and allowing Mother Nature to do her work.” – Dr. Rai
Casey

Fasting has been beneficial for these conditions: Although fasting is not recommended in every
situation, (cancer of the liver is one instance where fasting is contraindicated), in many situations
fasting is the only known solution. Fasting has been beneficial for arthritis, asthma, high blood
pressure, lupus, chronic fatigue, colitis, Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, spastic colon, irritable bowel,
cases of paralysis, neuritis, neuralgia, neuroses, and mental illness as well as many others. Fasting
will also break down tumors and for this reason, many have overcome cancer with fasting. 

Fasting decreases dependency on authorities How many of us believe that when we get sick, that
a doctor is going to save us from pain and death? We just assume that the technology is going to be
able to repair us when we break down, by giving us a pill, a treatment or a surgery. We are so
alienated from our bodies that we think that a doctor knows more about us than we do. The reality is
that doctor’s don’t have the cures that we need, what is offered by the traditional system of healers is
only the possibility to treat our symptoms never being able to cure us or root out the cause. When we
take these kinds of treatments to suppress our symptoms then that cause, which is the underlying
reason we are sick, goes unattended, then in fact our illness continues to grow. We will never be
healthy until we take responsibility for our own health . We need to stop blaming the outside for
making us sick, whether it is corporations, a person, our immediate environment or a government,
and to recognize instead that our sickness is a symptom telling us something is inside needs to be
addressed. For sure there are outside influences that we can’t control, but there is much that we can
control by taking responsibility for ourselves and working to change our habits.

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Benefits of Fasting  Mental clarity is improved and brain fog is lifted.  Rapid, safe weight loss is
achieved without flabbiness  The nervous system is balanced  Energy level and sensory perception is
increased. The longer the fast, the bigger increase in energy and vitality. You normally need less
sleep. Organs are revitalized  Cellular biochemistry is harmonized The skin becomes silky, soft, and
sensitive There is greater ease of movement Breathing becomes fuller, freer and deeper The digestive
system is rejuvenated and becomes more effective; the peristaltic action of the intestines (the cause
of a natural bowel movement) is stronger after fasting. Fasting retrains your tasting sense back to
more healthy food as acute sensitivity is restored.  Fasting can increase confidence in our ability to
have control over our lives and our appetite, and that our body is self-regulating and a self-healing
organism capable or establishing balance when given the possibility to do so. Normal metabolic and
cell oxygenation are restored. Detoxification - as soon as the body realizes that it's fasting it will
begin to eliminate those things that cause disease, such as fat cells, arterial cholesterol plaques,
mucus, tumors, stored up worries and emotions.

One Day Fast  One way to start is to fast one day, working towards fasting regularly, one day per
week or for longer periods of time. You can fast from all food, or only from solid food. You can choose
a one day fast with only:

water
fresh fruit juice 
fresh vegetable juice 
raw fruit 
raw vegetables 

 
 
Avoiding during the fast: cooked vegetables, cooked whole grains, whole grain flour products, bread,
pasta, etc. vegetable protein, soy products, etc.  dairy: milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, butter, eggs,
meats, fast food, junk food, prepared foods, etc., chemicals: sugar, caffeine, artificial flavoring,
sweeteners, etc.  Not to consume any drugs, nicotine and alcohol during fast should be clear.

Water Fast 
You can fast from 1 to 40 days. Try to drink 2 liters of water or more per day. 
The ten day water fast has become a recommended number of days. Ten days on water will cause the
same weight loss as 30 days on juice. But water fasting is far more difficult, especially if you have a
fast metabolism. Water fasting cleanses the body aggressively removing toxins rapidly. Water fasting
can be more beneficial than juice fasting in combating more persistent forms of cancer, cleansing the
tissues more aggressively. Water fasting demands mental preparation, the less pressure and
responsibility you have during a water fast the better. Think of it a holiday away form the normal
patterns of living. Some recommend that the week before your fast, you drink fresh juices and eat
mostly raw fruits and vegetables to cleanse the body so that the detoxification during water fasting
will be less aggressive. Water fasting should always include two of three days of juice fasting before
and after the water fast. This alternating between juice and water fasting is the most effective method
of achieving a full cleansing through fasting.

Water Fasting Tips Avoid water straight from the faucet. Distilled water is the best for cleansing
because of its inherent, magnetic properties and ability to absorb and suspend large quantities of
toxins, flushing them from the body. The perceived value of mineral water is misleading because the
inorganic minerals are like huge boulders to the cellular membranes, making them impossible to
assimilate. Plants are able to break down the minerals from the soils, allowing them to be completely
absorbable to the cells of the body. The best water is distilled, secondly, spring or filtered.

There are no calories or nutritional value in water. On a water fast you have given your body no

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options but to turn to itself for fuel. This can create a problem when you have spent years depositing
counterfeit fuel. Living exclusively on dirty fuel during a fast takes tremendous courage & strength.
To ease into water fasting some recommend juice fasting with periods of water fasting. For example
3 days on juice, 2 days on water, 5 days on juice, then 3 days on water. You can juice when you have
to work and water fast on the weekend when you can rest. 

Water Fasting Concerns It is not advisable to water fast under the conditions of hyperglycemia,
hypoglycemia, schizophrenia or a chronic heart condition. If you have existing conditions it is best if
you consult with a fasting expert and/or be monitored throughout your fast.

Be careful of dizziness and black outs. The heart is resting as much as it can during water fasting.
Before you stand up, take one or two deep breaths to get the heart pumping. If you start to black out,
sit down or crouch down on one knee. This will immediately stop the dizziness.

Master Cleanse Fast  The Master Cleanse or Lemon Cleanse is between a water fast and a juice fast.
Basically it consists of drinking a mixture of freshly squeezed lemons, water and maple syrup for a
period of 8 to 40 days. It is easier to do than a water fast because you are still getting nutrients and
energy from the lemons and the maple syrup. This fast can be done while still maintaining your
normal work, yet is less calories than what you would get from a juice fast. It is normal to lose weight
on this fast and it is excellent for cleansing the colon. For full details on how to do this fast see the
following link: Stanley Boroughs Master Cleanse 

Juice Fast Juice fasting is safe and can allow the body to clean itself of toxins while greatly improving
conditions for health. A benefit is that your energy level is high because you are receiving sufficient
nutrients from the juices, so you can carry out normal activities. A juice fast takes some burden off
the digestive system and frees up some energy for accelerated healing though a water fast does much
better in that regard. Also, juices can make available extra quantities of nutrients that a person might
lack. Juices are easy to assimilate and take hardly any digestive energy from the body, allowing the
body to put more energy into healing and rejuvenation. Packed with vitamins, minerals, living
enzymes, antioxidants, phytochemicals, yet low enough in calories to force the body to cannibalize on
its filthy waste, propelling you to vigorous physical health and clarity of mind.

For your first fast and for the purpose of healing disease most experts recommend a juice fast over a
water fast. Fasting on water has become a near impossible exercise for a body that has been nurtured
on poisons. The juice of fruits and vegetables are filled with healing and cleansing properties that
allow the body to gently and safely detoxify. Juice fasting has become an effective stepping-stone to
water fasting. Through juice fasting, thousands of individuals have been freed from serious diseases
such as cancer, leukemia, arthritis, high blood pressure, kidney disorders, skin infections, liver
disorders, alcoholism and smoking.

The thirty-day juice fast is a standard. This length of fast feels about right because after 30 days it
seems like you have been fasting forever. Less then 30 days and you can miss the best experiences of
the fast. If you are juice fasting, a few days on water occasionally will intensify the fast and assist with
weight-loss if you have a slow metabolism.

Most people can juice fast safely for up to 30 days. The exceptions are those with hypoglycemia,
diabetes, hypo thyroid, and Wilson's Syndrome. For these conditions, eat slices of avocado and
banana every few hours, add high quality vegetable source protein powder to your juices, and add
psyllium or another good bulking agent to your juices twice a day to regulate blood sugar levels. Do
not juice fast if you have impaired kidney function.

The amount of juice you drink will determine the intensity of cleansing. Drinking small amounts of

5
juice supplies fewer calories, thereby increasing detoxification. The more intense the cleansing, the
greater the discomfort. Juice fasting allows you to have control over the process of elimination.
However, when the body enters a cleansing crisis due to toxins in the blood, no amount of juice will
eliminate the discomfort. You must wait it out.

Drink all-vegetable or all-fruit juices, never combine fruits & vegetables to create juice. Make your
juice from fresh vegetables or fruits. You can also include herbal teas with honey, vegetable broth,
Barley Green, wheat grass juice and supplements helpful for your specific condition. Drink juice
whenever hunger develops until pleasantly full as opposed to stuffed full. It is best if you filter or
strain the juices, removing any excess fiber or pulp so that you continue to give the digestive system a
rest. Also if it looks like you are not losing weight on your fast, you can dilute the juices with water.

You may consider modifying the fast by including quarter slices of avocado or banana to slow the
cleansing process. Modified juice fasting is good for those with health restrictions such as diabetes or
hypoglycemia. Bananas and avocados are slow to digest and maintain a stable blood sugar level.
Their high calorie content slows the intensity of the fast and, because they are easy to digest, the
body still devotes energy to cleansing.

Preparation for Your Fast Inform yourself about fasting: by doing your own investigation, reading
all you can about the fasting process, the various kinds of fasts and what you can expect as side
affects. If you have a pre-existing health condition then you should find out if there are contrary
indications with fasting and your condition.

Determine your cleanse duration and time period:  Try to arrange that your fast is in a time period
where you have low activity or lobsters. Avoid heavy kinds of work if at all possible. When it comes
to long fasts and inability of somebody to handle a long fast, you just do the best you can. When
detoxification increases as it does during fasting, the liver, kidneys, lungs and immune system work
extra hard to handle the load. If these systems were already compromised before the fast, one must
proceed carefully. You go as long as you can tolerate it, whether physiologically or emotionally, and
then come back to eating again. Once you have some energy and are a few steps further toward
health, you can consider doing another fast. Several short fasts can definitely do wonders if one long
fast cannot be undertaken. Long fasts are preferable to short ones because once the body is in the
fasting state it cleanses systematically into the harder to get at body tissues. For this reason, most of
the recoveries from illness have taken place in the latter parts of long juice or water fasts. Long fasts
give the body the uninterrupted time to do the work of healing. The first few days of fasting gets rid
of the gross waste products of digestion, but only after this can the body pull out its tools to get to
work on healing.

Frequency of Fasting Of course, the best is that people stay on a good daily health regime and then
when the need comes to fast to go ahead and do it for a week to 10 days or longer if indicated. At
least long enough to move completely into the fasting physiology and accelerated detoxification. 
Ideally people should fast once or twice a year just as a tune-up to deal with the environmental toxins
and junk in our foods as well as the emotional build up. Traditionally people have fasted in the spring
and fall, when the weather is mild. 

Activity Level It is good to at least have mild exercise and movements with short walks to keep the
lymphatic fluid moving and to the keep the vascular system working.  The amount of exercise you can
do is very much dependent on your existing condition and how you are feeling that day and what
kind of fast you are doing. Basically one needs to be alert and listen to one’s body and not to overdo.
Fasting is resting, not a marathon! You may feel weak during a water fast and may need to rest more
often. While juice fasting, you may experience an abundance of energy that makes exercise easy. If
you experience energy loss, limit yourself to stretching exercises, light walking or deep breathing.

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Proteins & Fasting It was theorized that protein loss during fasting was harmful and that a fast
should be supplemented with protein. Fasting with protein became known as the Opti-fast. Fasters
took nothing but water and a protein drink. Sadly, several people died. Protein digestion during the
fasting state created an overload of urea and the blood become acidic. In this condition, the organs
become more damaged instead of healing. To the body, fasting is a natural process. During water or
juice fasting, the protein levels of the blood remain constant. Although protein is being utilized, a
person fasting 40 days on water will not suffer a deficiency of either protein, vitamins, minerals or
fatty acids. In the breakdown of dying and diseased cells, all essential substances are available while
fasting for reuse within the body. These dead cells are utilized in a systematic manner.

Protein deficiency is non existent in North America. You never hear of anyone being diagnosed with
protein deficiency. Fruit and vegetable juices have water-soluble highly absorbable proteins. The
body has a store of protein, and it uses it selectively. Dying cells are the first to be used and healthy
and vital tissues are the very last and will only be used as a last resort. Only during starvation is
protein being stripped from healthy tissue to be used to survive. This may take 30 to 80 days of
fasting on water to reach this point.

The systematic searching of cells to be metabolized is crucial in the healing of cancer. A cancer cell
represents protein and calories. Some cancers are so persistent that you have to force the body to
choose between healthy cells and cancer cells. This requires a long fast on small portions of juice
combined with days of water fasting.

Aiding Elimination of Toxins Enemas: If you are not having natural bowel movements then an
enema is advised to move out the toxic material that is being scoured by your body. You will feel
much better after taking an enema. An enema can be taken daily in the beginning days of a fast, then
bi-daily for the remainder using just plain water.

Mucus: . It is common, during fasting, for the nose and throat to pass sticky mucus, clogging the
sinuses. White strands of mucus may be found in the stool. You may find that you are more
comfortable if you use a Neti Pot to clear the sinus cavities, to prevent getting a cold with the clogged
sinuses. You can also drink lemon juice with water to help clear the mucus. 

Showers/Bathing:  Plan to shower or bath daily to aid in cleaning the pores and assist the removal of
toxins. The skin is a large organ and many toxins are removed through the pores causing a gummy
deposit on the surface of the skin. It may help to brush the skin removing the sludge that is deposited
there. 

Reactions from Fasting The 'healing' reactions you get from fasting are dependent on your existing
health and the toxic load present in your body when you start. The first three days can be the most
difficult until one's appetite for food goes away, which it normally does after the third day. Many
people experience headaches, joint pain and other discomforts in the first few days. Your tongue will
become coated and your breath foul, and you may notice increased body odor. These are all normal
detox reactions as the toxins move out of your body. With extended fasting you will notice some days
are symptom free, then as you move into deeper layers of detoxification you will experience episodes
of symptoms as your body cleanses these other systems. In the later stages you remove the mucous
from your system and this can increase your likelihood to catch a flu or a cold. At times you may feel
weak or tired, so you should listen to your body and rest. Periods of high-energy and mental clarity
will be experienced and can be variable, alternating between periods of healing reactions and
symptom free days. With extended fasts it is normal to also have strong emotional reactions that
have been suppressed, as the body brings these to the surface also for healing... This can be a difficult
period, but can be dealt with more easily with meditation or Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).
The cleansing response that happens is dependent on experience with fasting, current health and

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level of toxins and sickness in your body.  If you have an existing health condition, it is possible that
you get a strong healing reaction or healing crisis. A link to a page describing this reaction in detail is
given below. 

If cleansing responses arise (headache, stomach upset, mental fog, lethargy,.etc) exercise great
patience and take rest until symptoms pass. It's all part of the process. Always go to your capacity but
never over-do. If unreasonably strong physical or emotional symptoms occur, it may be wise to
discontinue. The following are common reactions and what can be done to ease the symptom while
you are fasting. 

Spiritual As the system detoxifies, many of these spiritual aspects of ourselves that have been
waiting to come through for a long time are finally able to, and that person, hopefully fasting in an
environment that is calm and serene and peaceful and loving, will be able to express and deal with
these spiritual phenomena such that it can have a very beneficial and positive effect. Meditation, EFT
and other tools can be used to help relate to spiritual and emotional phenomena.

Weight Loss Weight loss can initially be as high as three to four pounds per day, but as the fast
continues, the average loss will be one pound per day. If you are juice fasting and not losing weight,
the juice is supplying all the calories you need. You may have to cut down on the juices or alternate
between water fasting and juice fasting if losing weight is part of your goal. The slower your
metabolism the slower the weight loss. If you are thin or average weight and you fast for 30 days on
juice or 10 days on water, you will become thin. Ribs will show, the face will become gaunt, and
friends and family will display concern. But the body will quickly normalize its weight in 5 to 10 days
after the fast. If you are thin to start with, fasting may allow you to gain additional weight after the
fast. Metabolism is normalized due to the cleansing process. It is very important not to try to gain
weight too quickly. The body can rebuild only at a set rate. Overeating will burden the body and
undermine the rebuilding process.

Dizziness You may experience dizziness, if you do get down on one knee and the dizziness will stop
immediately.

Backache Back pain may increase due to toxins in the lower intestine. The blood vessels that draw
nutrients from the colon are very close to the nerves of the spine. Back pain often decreases after
elimination of the toxins. Back exercises also can relieve some pain. A cold pack also will help. An
enema may be in order... 

Bad Breath Waste passes through the lungs which are an eliminative organ. Brushing the tongue
with a tooth brush, using dental floss and rinsing with mouthwash will reduce bad breath.

Canker Sores These may develop from a toxic buildup in the mouth. Unhealthy bacteria increases
between the teeth. The tongue becomes coated with waste. To stop cankers, gargle with sea salt
mixed with water several times daily. Dabbing the sore with tea tree oil or vitamin E quickens the
healing process.

Cold Virus Mucoid is the perfect food for viruses. Toxins weaken the immune system. When large
quantities of toxins and mucus are in the blood due to a fast, they can cause a susceptibility to colds.
To fight a cold, continue fasting to eliminate the mucus. Reduce the liquid intake and drink lemon
juice.

Blackouts During fasting the body conserves energy. The heart pumps slower and blood pressure
lowers. Standing or moving quickly from a resting position will cause the blood to flow to the legs.

8
For a few seconds, the brain may not get enough oxygen, causing blackouts and dizziness. To stop a
blackout get down on one knee or sit. Lowering your center of gravity will instantly stop a blackout.
Blackouts are more frequent during water fasting.

Diarrhea Fruit juices have a laxative effect that is more pronounced after water fasting. It can be
stopped by using the enema. Using psyllium husk during diarrhea will help regulate the system.

Strong Emotions  Try to journal, EFT, meditate, talk a walk, or rest.

Headaches Toxins can cause muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders. This can result in tension
headaches. Massaging the neck and shoulders will help relieve the tension. The herb Fever Few,
which is available in health food stores, is well worth trying.

Mucus  Drink lemon juice with water, combine with Neti Pot. 

Muscle Tightness The muscles may become tight and sore due to toxin irritation. The legs can be the
worst affected as toxins accumulate in the legs. A self massage, hot baths, stretching and exercising
will help to release the toxins.

Nausea When waste is released too quickly by the lymph glands, some of the toxic overload is taken
by the liver and secreted with bile into the stomach. This causes nausea. Drinking water or carrot
juice will dilute the bile and toxin mixture helping to flush it from the system.

Nervousness The elimination of toxins can irritate damaged nerves. Exercise will relieve tension.
Use quarter slices of avocado to slow the fast or drink fruit juice if on a water fast. However, you
should note that any food intake may cause one's hunger to return and make it more difficult to stay
on the fast, just do the best that you can.

Skin disturbances The skin may become oily as rancid oils are purged from the body. People with
problem free skin may have a few days of pimples or boils. A pallid complexion is also a sign of waste
in the blood. When cleansed of mucus and toxins, the skin will be healthy, soft and unblemished.

Tiredness Tiredness is normal during water or restricted juice fasting. If the tiredness is too much,
increase the quantity of sweet juices like melon and carrot juice.

Pre-existing Conditions

Heart Disease Include bananas and avocados when juice fasting to balance the blood sugar level.
Toxins in the blood and reduced blood sugar levels may cause a weak heart to labor. Like any other
organ, the heart needs nutrients, a toxin free environment, and time to heal. Also if one has the
disorder of POTS it is advisable to take salt so that the blood pressure does not get too low. 

Hypoglycemia Do not juice fast unless you use bananas and avocados to balance the blood sugar
level.

Kidney problems Fasting can irritate damaged kidneys due to the amount of toxins they filter. Try
short juice fasts of 3 to 5 days before progressing to longer fasts.

Liver Disease The liver can become toxic due to abuse. If the liver is badly degenerated, cleansing
must be done in stages. Start with short juice fasts and lead to fasts over five days. Avoid heavy

9
proteins, refined flours and fatty foods. Eat meals of fruits or vegetables between the fasts.

Age Nobody is too old to fast - it is exactly what the body needs to feel young again. Shorter fasts are
recommended to start. Assess your physical state as you proceed. If juice fasting becomes too
intense, bananas and avocados will lessen the intensity by slowing the cleansing.

Ulcers Fasting will help significantly. Choose the juices that do not irritate the condition.

Healing Crisis  (The cleansing reaction, the detox reaction, or the Herxheimer reaction.)

During your fast you may enter into a healing crisis, which indicates that a deeply seated sickness is
being healed, but also this means that you are going in reverse through the reactions that you went
through as your sickness progressed. This is normally a good thing, because it shows that there is a
major healing happening, but the downside is that it is not easy to go through because of the
uncomfortable reactions that cause pain, etc. If you are feeling quite ill then you should read through
the healing reaction article to try to determine if this is what is going on with you or not. It may be
advisable to check with your medical professional at this point, to try to determine if you want to
continue the fast or not. For more information read the following article: Healing Reaction

Going Off Your Fast "It’s a fact that eating causes a cycle of hunger. It’s only when we stop eating
that we lose hunger!  Think about it. All fasting experts agree that hunger sensations are usually lost
on or shortly after the third day of fasting, and sometimes don’t return for weeks, but when they do
return, usually very strongly, it’s the time to break the fast."

But all fasting experts point out that it is important to resume eating very lightly, and very gradually,
in exact relationship to the duration of the fast. Therefore, if breaking a 40-day fast, you may want to
start with only small quantities of fruit juice for several days up to a week, before actually resuming
with solid food like regular fruit. Important: Keep the first solid meal light and simple even though
the mental temptation to dive into heavier favorites will probably be high. Be gentle with your
digestive system and your digestive system will not only thank you but the overall benefits of the
cleanse will last much longer. If you were on a water fast, then your first day can be juices, if your
were on a juice fast, then your first day should be raw vegetables or fruits. The next meal may include
heavier items such as potato, avocado or corn, but in any case you will notice that your body is very
sensitive to what you eat and you should use this period of transition to learn more about what your
body likes and doesn't like you to put into it.

When waking up a slumbering digestive system, the desire to eat will be intense. The flavors and
textures of food will be enhanced by super clean nasal passages. Eating will be a brand new
experience. This is the time to flex your new-found muscles of discipline and self-control. As the body
screams, I want more, wisdom whispers, you have had enough. 

Eating small amounts of raw fruits and vegetables for the first five or six days will allow the body to
gently wake up the digestive system. The body will continue to detoxify and cleanse during this
period. Any toxins that have accumulated will begin to move due to the sweeping action of the soft
fibers of fruits and vegetables.

For six days gradually increase the amount of raw fruits and vegetables in your diet. To break a fast
and gorge on meat, bread or junk food will be disaster. Jarring the system this intensely when the
digestive system is in a sensitive state can cause stomach cramps, nausea and weakness, negating
much of the benefits of the fast.

10
Eat slowly and chew your food well. Saliva has enzymes that assist in digestion. Up to 80 percent of
the starch, 30 percent of the protein and 10 percent of the fat can be digested by the enzymes in
saliva.

Do not overeat! Discover the amount of food that your body needs to live a vibrant, healthy life.
Discern the difference between cravings and hunger. Never feed your emotions.

When breaking a fast over ten days, the break-in period should be extended one day for every 4 days
of fasting.

Greater Sensitivity - Restored Senses An interesting phenomenon occurs after a fast. The years of
conditioning your body to tolerate unhealthy foods is reversed. The body is as clean as a newborn
baby. Try feeding a newborn baby Grandma's apple pie.

When the body is full of toxins, its defense systems are not able to operate effectively. After a fast the
natural defenses are restored and sensitivity to unhealthy food is increased. You will feel satisfied
with smaller amounts of food and sluggish and tired when overeating. Rich foods, full of fat, salt, and
processed sugars will cause nausea, headaches and weakness. A handful of fruit will be thoroughly
satisfying. Because the digestive system has to work less, there will be boundless energy to spare.

Why? After a fast your body is clean, and has far less tolerance to the poisonous foods that you were
used to eating previous to the fast. Understand, feeling sick when eating poison is a sign that your
body is functioning normally. Fasting restores the body's ability to violently react to harmful, health
damaging, food. If you really desire, you can desensitize your body by slowly introducing harmful
foods back into your diet, but why you should? You better select your food carefully, even though it is
not possible to avoid toxins as these are every where. So fasting as a regular cleaning is important
and will keep you healthy. 

Fasting is the single greatest natural healing therapy. It is

nature’s ancient, universal "remedy" for many problems.
Animals instinctively fast when ill. When I first discovered
fasting, 15 years ago, I felt as if it had saved my life and
transformed my illnesses into health. My stagnant energies
began flowing, and I became more creative and vitally alive. I
still find fasting both a useful personal tool and an important
therapy for many medical and life problems.

Of course, most of the problems for which I recommend fasting

as treatment are ones that result from overnutrition rather than
malnutrition. Dietary abuse problems, more common in the
Western world than in Third World countries, generate many of
the chronic degenerative diseases that I have written so much
about; these include atherosclerosis, hypertension and heart
disease, allergies, diabetes, and cancer. I believe that fasting is
therapeutic and, more importantly, preventive for many of these

11
conditions and more.

As I use the term here, fasting is the avoidance of solid food

and the intake of liquids only (true fasting would be the total
avoidance of anything by mouth). The most stringent form of
fasting is taking only water; more liberally, fasting includes the
use of fresh juices made from fruits and vegetables as well as
herbal teas. All of these limited diets generate varying degrees
of detoxification—that is, elimination of toxins from the body.
Individual experiences with fasting depend on the condition of
the body (also mind and attitude). Detoxification might be
intense and temporarily increase sickness or might be
immediately helpful and uplifting.

Juice fasting is commonly used (rather than water alone) as a

mild and effective cleansing plan; this is suggested by myself
and other doctors and authors and by many of the European
fasting clinics. Fresh juices are easily assimilated and require
minimum digestion, while they supply many nutrients and
stimulate our body to clear its wastes. Juice fasting is also safer
than water fasting, because it supports the body nutritionally
while cleansing and probably even produces a better
detoxification and quicker recovery.

Fasting (cleansing, detoxification) is one part of the triology of

nutrition; balancing and building (toning) are the others. I
believe that fasting is the "missing link" in the Western diet.
Most people overeat, eat too often, and eat a high-protein, high-
fat, rich-food, building and congesting diet more consistently
than they need. If we regularly eat a more balanced and well-
combined diet, such as my Ideal Diet, we will have less need for
fasting and toning plans, although both would still be required at
certain intervals throughout the year.

In a sense, detoxification is an important corrective and

rejuvenative process in our cycle of nutrition. It is a time when
we allow our cells and organs to breathe out, become current,
and restore themselves. We do not necessarily need to fast to
experience some cleansing, however. Minor shifts in the diet
such as including more fluids, more raw foods, and fewer
congesting foods will allow for better detoxification; for a

12
carnivore, for example, a vegetarian or macrobiotic diet will be
cleansing and purifying. The general process of detoxification is
discussed thoroughly in the General Detoxification program;
here we focus on fluid fasting—its history, therapeutic use,
benefits, contraindications, and, of course, how to do it, along
with other aspects of lifestyle that support fasting.

Fasting is a time-proven remedy. Its use goes back many

thousands of years, really to the beginning of life forms. As a
healing process and spiritual-religious process, it has continued
to be more intelligently applied, we hope, in the last several
thousand years.

Voluntary abstinence from food has been a tradition in most

religions and is clearly a spiritual purification rite. Many
religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and the Eastern
religions, have encouraged fasting for a variety of reasons,
such as penitence, preparation for ceremony, purification,
mourning, sacrifice and union with God, and the enhancement
of knowledge and powers. From Moses, Elijah, and Daniel to
Christ, the Bible is filled with fasters, who employed it to assist
their purification and communion with God. Fasts as long as 40
days were employed to cleanse people of sins and the "devil."

The Essenes, authors of the Dead Sea Scrolls, also advocated

fasting to purify themselves and commune with God. This was
one of their primary healing methods. The Essene Gospel of
Peace, transcribed by Edmond Bordeaux Szekely from the
third-century Aramaic manuscript, suggests that Satan, his evil
spirits, and his plagues will be cast out of our being by fasting
and prayer. The Essenes believed that disease came from
Satan (they claimed that it took three days without food to
starve Satan) and from sins upon our body—the temple, which
must be purified for God to reside there. To bring God into our
life more completely, we would fast on water and "go to the
waters (stream, lake) and find a hollow reed, insert it in our rear
ends and flush the evils from our bowels."

For many philosophers, scientists, and physicians, fasting was

an essential part of life, health, and the healing process needed
to recreate health where there was sickness. Socrates, Plato,

13
Aristotle, Galen, Paracelsus, and Hippocrates all used and
believed in fasting therapy. Most spiritual teachers also
recommend fasting as a useful tool. In a booklet from the 1947
lecture entitled Healing by God’s Unlimited Power,
Paramahansa Yogananda suggested that fasting is a way to
increase our natural resistance to disease, stating that "Fasting
is a natural method of healing. When animals or savages are
sick, they fast." He continued, "Most diseases can be cured by
judicious fasting. Unless one has a weak heart, regular short
fasts have been recommended by the yogis as an excellent
health measure." Yogananda referred to an Armenian doctor,
Grant Sarkisyan, who had treated many patients successfully
with fasting therapy for such disorders as asthma, skin
diseases, digestive problems, and early stages of
atherosclerosis and hypertension.

Throughout the centuries, many doctors have treated a variety

of patients and maladies with fasting, acknowledging that
ignorance (of how to live in accordance with nature) may
be our greatest disease. Knowledge, not necessarily from
books, but our inherent and experienced knowing of how to live
according to the natural laws and spiritual truth, leads to the
sacred wisdom of life and subsequent good health. Knowing
when and how long to fast is part of this knowledge. Through
fasting, we can turn our energies inward, where we can use
them for healing, clarity, and change.

Physicians with a spiritual orientation tend to be more inclined

than others to employ fasting, both personally and medically.
Many of my life transitions were acknowledged, stimulated, and
supported through fasting; and when I felt blocked or needed
creative juice in my writing, fasting would be very useful. In
Spiritual Nutrition and the Rainbow Diet, Gabriel Cousens,
M.D., a California physician and spiritual teacher, includes an
excellent chapter on fasting in which he describes his concepts
of fasting and his own 40-day fast. According to Dr. Cousens,

. . . fasting in a larger context, means to abstain from that which is toxic to mind,
body, and soul. A way to understand this is that fasting is the elimination of
physical, emotional, and mental toxins from our organism, rather than simply

14
cutting down on or stopping food intake. Fasting for spiritual purposes usually
involves some degree of removal of oneself from worldly responsibilities. It can
mean complete silence and social isolation during the fast which can be a great
revival to those of us who have been putting our energy outward.
From a medical point of view, I believe that fasting is not utilized
often enough. We go on vacations from work to relax, recharge,
and to gain new perspectives on our life; why not take
occasional breaks from food? Or, for that matter, we might
consider fasts from phones, cars, computers, talking, or from
whatever activity/consumption we feel is excessive. Most
people cannot break out of the conditioned pattern of eating
three meals daily. Eating is a habit, an addiction. Most of us do
not need nearly the amounts (and types) of food we consume. I
have discussed allergy-addiction in many sections of this book;
in a sense, eating itself is an allergy-addiction. When we stop
and let our stomach remain empty, our body goes into an
elimination cycle, and most people, especially when toxicity
exists, will experience some "withdrawal" symptoms, such as
headaches, irritability, or fatigue (only pure hunger is a clear
sign of need for food). When they eat again, their withdrawal
symptoms subside, and they feel better. This situation is worse
when it involves allergic people eating allergenic foods.

I believe that fasting is one of the best overall healing methods

because it can be applied to so many conditions and people.
Those who are acid, sympathetic, or yang types, who tend to
develop congestive symptoms and diseases rather than those
of deficiency, do better on fasting than do other types. Some
acid conditions, including colds, flus, bronchitis, mucus
congestion, and constipation, can lead to headaches, other
intestinal problems, skin conditions, and many other ailments.
Those who follow a basic, wholesome, and balanced diet such
as outlined in this book have less need to fast or detoxify,
although on occasion it is a good idea for anyone, provided that
they are not undernourished. Most of us living in Western,
industrialized nations are mixed types, with both overnutrition
and undernutrition. We may take in excessive amounts of
potentially toxic nutrients, such as fats and chemicals, and
inadequate amounts of many essential vitamins and minerals.
Juice fasting supplies some of these needed nutrients and

15
allows the elimination of toxins. Excess mucus and clogging of
the eliminative systems constitute the basic process of
congestive diseases; deficiency problems result from poor
nourishment or ineffective digestion/assimilation.

In the General Detoxification program, a number of symptoms

and diseases of toxicity that can be alleviated by detoxification
are discussed. Juice fasting is mentioned as part of the
treatment plans in many other sections as well. It can be used
to detoxify from drugs or whenever we want to embark on a
new plan or life transition, provided that there are no
contraindications to fasting (discussed later in this section).
Fasting is very versatile and generally fairly safe; however,
when it is used in the treatment of medical conditions, proper
supervision should be employed, including monitoring of
physical changes and biochemistry values. Many doctors,
clinics, acupuncturists, nutritionists, and chiropractors feel
comfortable overseeing people during fasting.

Conditions for which Fasting May Be Beneficial

colds atherosclerosis
coronary artery
flus
disease
bronchitis angina pectoris
headaches hypertension
constipation diabetes
indigestion fever
diarrhea fatigue
food allergies back pains
environmental allergies mental illness
asthma obesity
insomnia cancer
skin conditions epilepsy

16
The use of fasting to treat fevers is controversial. Eastern
medicine thinks of fasting as increasing body fire, so that it
might worsen fever. In actuality, when we consume liquids, we
generate less heat, so this really helps to cool the body. With
fever, we need more liquids than usual; with high temperatures
and sweating, we need even more.

Some cases of fatigue will respond well to fasting, particularly

when the fatigue results from congested organs and energy.
With fatigue that results from chronic infection, nutritional
deficiency, or serious disease, more nourishment is probably
needed, rather than fasting.

Back pains that are due to muscular tightness and stress rather
than from bone disease or osteoporosis are usually alleviated
with a lighter diet or juice fasting. Many tight muscles and sore
areas along the back may result from referred pain from colon
or other organ congestion. In my experience, poor bowel
function and constipation are fairly commonly associated with
back pains.

Many patients with mental illness, from anxiety to

schizophrenia, may be helped by fasting. The purpose of
fasting in this case, however, is not to cure these problems but
to help understand the relationship of foods, chemicals, or
drugs to the mental difficulties. Allergies and hypersensitive
environmental reactions are not at all uncommon in people with
mental illness. Care must be exercised with the use of fasting in
mental patients as the toxicity or lack of nourishment may
worsen their problems. If, however, the patient is strong and
congested, fasting may be indicated.

Obesity can be remedied by fasting. Obesity is the problem for

which fasting is currently most often used (mainly protein
drinks) in the traditional medical system, although it is not the
best use of this healing technique. Fasting is not even a good
treatment for those who are overweight; it is too temporary and
may generate feasting reactions in people coming off the fast.
Better would be a change of diet and a longer-term weight-
release plan; something that will allow new dietary habits and
food choices to replace the old ones. A short fast, perhaps of

17
five to ten days, can be useful as a motivator and catalyst for
making these necessary dietary changes and new
commitments and to help release a pound or two daily.

Some very obese patients have been monitored by doctors

while on water fasts done in hospitals for months at a time to
shed weights of a hundred pounds or more. With other patients,
the jaws have been wired shut so that they can take in only
fluids drunk through straws. Newer fasting programs substitute
a variety of protein-rich powders for meals. These are usually
medically supervised programs for people who are at least 30-
50 pounds overweight and make use of a prepackaged, low-
calorie powder, such as Optifast or Medifast. This high-protein,
low-calorie diet allows patients to burn more fat. These
programs are not nearly as healthful as vital juice fasts, but they
are nutritionally supportive over a longer time period and can be
used on a outpatient basis fairly safely if people are monitored
regularly. They provide all the needed vitamins, minerals, and
amino acids to sustain life and help many obese people to
lower their weight, blood fats, blood pressures, and blood
sugars. However, as with any weight-loss program, if it does not
motivate the participants to change their diets and habits, they
then may stay in the "yo-yo" syndrome (weight going up and
down and up), which may actually be more harmful than just
remaining overweight.

A balanced, low-calorie diet with lots of exercise is still the best

way to reduce and maintain a good weight and figure. Many
obese people are also deficient in nutrients because they eat a
highly refined, fatty, sweet diet. Often, these obese people are
fatigued, and they need to be nourished first before they will do
well on any fast.

Fasting to treat cancer is also a controversial topic. Many

alternative clinics outside the United States use fasting in the
treatment of cancers. Since cancer can be a devitalizing,
debilitating disease, this may not be wise. Possibly with early
cancer, and definitely as a cancer preventive to reduce toxicity,
juice fasting may be helpful. Anyone with cancer needs
adequate nourishment, and adding fresh juices to an already
wholesome diet can help induce a mild detoxification and

18
enhance vitality.

The Process and Benefits of FastingAlthough the

process of fasting may generate various results, depending on
the individual condition of the faster, there are clearly a number
of common metabolic changes and experiences. First, fasting is
a catalyst for change and an essential part of transformational
medicine. It promotes relaxation and energization of the body,
mind and emotions, and supports a greater spiritual awareness.
Many fasters feel a letting go of past actions and experiences
and develop a positive attitude toward the present. Having
energy to get things done and clean up old areas, both personal
and environmental, without the usual procrastination is also a
common experience. Fasting clearly improves motivation and
creative energy; it also enhances health and vitality and lets
many of the body systems rest.

In other words, fasting is a multidimensional experience.

Physiologically, refraining from eating minimizes the work done
by the digestive organs, including the stomach, intestines,
pancreas, gallbladder, and liver. Most important here is that our
liver, our body’s large production and metabolic factory, can
spend more time during fasting cleaning up and creating its
many new substances for our use. Breakdown of stored or
circulating chemicals is the basic process of detoxification. The
blood and lymph also have the opportunity to be cleaned of
toxins as all the eliminative functions are enhanced with fasting.
Each cell has the opportunity to catch up on its work; with fewer
new demands, it can repair itself and dump its waste for the
garbage pickup. Most fasters also experience a new vibrancy of
their skin and clarity of mind and body.

Initially, the reduction of calories allows the liver to convert

glycogen stores to glucose and energy. Body fat can be used
for energy (ATP) but it cannot generate or reform glucose;
although many cells can metabolize fatty acids for energy, the
brain and central nervous system need direct glucose. Proteins
can be broken down into amino acids; of these, alanine and
serine can be used to produce glucose. With fasting, some
protein breakdown occurs, less if calories are provided by

19
juices. When there is no stored glycogen left, our body will
convert protein to amino acids and to energy. Fatty acids can
also be a fair source of energy, usually after being converted to
ketones. With total fasting, ketosis occurs as an adaptation by
the body to prevent protein loss by burning fats. Still, protein
and fats can be used to provide energy for brain cell function.
With juice fasting, there is less ketosis, and the simple
carbohydrates in the juices are easily used for energy and
cellular function. The high-protein diets and fasts do burn fat
and generate ketosis and weight loss, but they also add more
toxin buildup in the body from the foods or powders used. Also,
they do not rest and cleanse the digestive tract and other
organs as well.

Fasting increases the process of elimination and the release of

toxins from the colon, kidneys and bladder, lungs and sinuses,
and skin. This process can generate discharge such as mucus
from the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, sinuses, or in
the urine. This is helpful to clear out the problems that have
arisen from overeating and a sedentary lifestyle. Much of aging
and disease, I believe, results from "biochemical suffocation,"
where our cells do not get enough oxygen and nutrients or
cannot adequately eliminate their wastes. Fasting helps us
decrease this suffocation by allowing the cells to eliminate and
clear the old products.

Some Benefits of Fasting

More
Purification
energy
Rejuvenation Better sleep
More
Revitalization
relaxation
Better
Rest for digestive organs
attitude
More
Clearer skin clarity,
mentally

20
 and
Antiaging effects
emotionally
Improved senses—vision, Inspiration
hearing, taste Creativity
Reduction of allergies New ideas
Clearer
Weight loss
planning
Change of
Drug detoxification
habits
Diet
Better resistance to disease
changes
Right use of
Spiritual awareness
will

This physiological rest and concentration on cleanup can also

generate a number of toxicity symptoms. Hunger is usually
present for two or three days and then departs, leaving many
people with a surprising feeling of deep abdominal peace; yet,
others may feel really hungry. It is good to ask ourselves, "What
are we hungry for?" Fasting is an excellent time to work on our
psychological connections to consumption.

As far as fasting symptoms, headache is not at all uncommon

during the first day or two. Fatigue or irritability may arise at
times, as may dizziness or lightheadedness. Our sensitivity is
usually increased. Common sounds like television, music,
refrigerators may irritate us more now. The sense of smell is
also exaggerated, both positively and negatively; I have had
whole meals of smells while fasting. The tongues of most
people will develop a thick white or yellow fur coating, which
can be scraped or brushed off. Bad breath and displeasing
tastes in the mouth or foul-smelling urine or stools may occur.
Skin odor or skin eruptions such as small spots or painful boils,
may also appear, depending on the state of toxicity. Digestive
upset, mucusy stools, flatulence, or even nausea and vomiting
may occur during fasting. Some people experience insomnia or
bad dreams as their body releases poisons during the night.
The mind may put up resistance, with doubt or lack of faith or a
fear that the fasting is not right. (This can be influenced even

21
more by listening to other people’s fears.) Most of these
symptoms, however, will occur early if they do appear and are
usually transient. The general energy level is usually good
during fastings, although there can be ups and downs. Every
two or three days, as the body goes into a deeper level of
dumping wastes, the energy may go down, and resistance and
fears as well as symptoms may arise. Between these times, we
usually feel cleaner, better, and more alive.

The natural therapy term for periods of cleansing and

symptoms is "crisis," or "healing crisis." During these times, old
symptoms or patterns from the past may arise, usually
transiently, or new symptoms of detoxification may appear. This
"crisis" is not predictable and is thus often accompanied with
some question by the fasters as well as their practitioners—is
this some new problem arising or is it part of the healing
process? Usually only time will tell, yet if it is associated with
the fasting and one or more of the common symptoms, it is
likely a positive part of detoxification. We should use the maxim
of healing, Hering’s Law of Cure, to guide us—it states that
healing happens from the inside out, the top down, from more
important organs to less important ones, and from the most
recent to the oldest symptoms. Most healing crises pass within
a day or two, although some cleansers experience several days
of "cold" symptoms or sinus congestion. If any symptom lasts
longer than two or three days, it should be considered as a side
effect or a new problem possibly unrelated to cleansing. If there
is a problem that worsens or is severe and causes concern,
such as fainting, heart arrhythmias, or bleeding, the fast should
be stopped and a doctor consulted.

A doctor or knowledgeable practitioner should supervise

anyone for whom fasting is questionable—that is, anyone in
poor health or without fasting experience. If the fast is extended
for more than three to five days, regular monitoring, including
physical examination and blood work should be done, probably
about weekly. Fasting may reduce blood protein levels and will
definitely lower blood fats. Uric acid levels may rise secondary
to protein breakdown, while levels of some minerals, such as
potassium, sodium, calcium, or magnesium, may drop. Iron

22
levels are usually lower, and the red blood count may also drop
during this time.

Nutritionally, fasting helps us appreciate the more subtle

aspects of diet, since less food and simple flavors become
more satisfying. My early fasts definitely reawakened my taste
buds and allowed me to appreciate and desire more natural
foods. Mentally, fasting improves clarity and attentiveness;
emotionally, it may make us more sensitive and aware of
feelings. I have seen on several occasions individuals making
decisions based on new clarities brought out during fasts.
Fasting clearly supports the transformational evolutionary
process. For example, when we really "get" that our spouse is
not going to change his or her habits of eating, watching TV, or
being too busy to really relate to us—that the priority of the
relationship is very low and the love is clearly not there—it may
be time to make a change. With fasting, we can feel
empowered to do things we only thought about before. Fasting
can precipitate emotional cleansing as well. Attitude and
general motivation are usually uplifted with cleansing.
Spiritually, juice fasting offers a lesson in self-restraint and
control of passions, which help us in many avenues of life.

Fasting is a simple process of self-cleansing. We do not need

any special medicines to do it; our body knows how. Provided
that we are basically well-nourished, systematic undereating
and fasting are likely the most important contributors to health
and longevity. Fasting is even more important to balance the
autointoxication that results from common dietary and drug
indiscretions.

I look at fasting as "taking a week off work" to handle the other

aspects of life for which there is often little time. With fasting we
can take time to nurture ourselves and rest. Fasting is also like
turning off and cleaning a complex and valuable machine so
that it will function better and longer. Resting the
gastrointestinal tract, letting the cells and tissues repair
themselves, and allowing the lymph, blood, and organs to clear
out old, defective, or diseased cells and unneeded chemicals all
lead to less degeneration and sickness. As healthy cell growth
is stimulated, so is our level of vitality, immune function and

23
disease resistance, and our potential for greater longevity.

Fasting ExamplesJ.R. did a 67-day fast on juices at age

20 when he joined a fasting and health-food-oriented
community in 1975. He describes feeling great and very light. In
fact, he lost a lot of weight. His only problems were skin sores
that would not heal. These were of course, seen as a detox
process. Medically, they could be attributed to protein/nutrient
deficiency as well. This long fast on juice nutrients was a major
transitional period for J.R. to change his diet to raw foods and
strict vegetarianism. It also helped change his beliefs and
motivation for life.

S.R. was very overweight and in a family relationship that was

not supporting her growth. She clearly grasped for spiritual
unfoldment. She was very strong, had loads of energy and
various congestive symptoms—a prime candidate for fasting.
After she began her fast, she decided to go 30 days on Master
Cleanser with my support. She did wonderfully, lost 24 pounds,
and wasn’t through yet. For the next 30 days, she did my
seven-food diet (apples, lemons, alfalfa sprouts, brown rice,
carrots, almonds, and broccoli), picking seven primary foods to
make up her diet, thus continuing her willpower and diet focus.
After that, S.R. did another 30-day fast on Master Cleanser and
other juices. She did well. During these months she moved from
bookkeeping and typing into the healing arts. She left her
husband and moved to the Midwest to take a job assisting a
well-known physician in her healing research.

*There are many choices that will make up a relatively balanced

diet.
B.D. and C.D.—This father (B.D., age 46) and son (C.D., age
15) attended a recent fasting group. B.D. was 50 pounds
overweight (231, 5’9") and had high blood pressure. On exam
B.D.’s cholesterol was 214. He had in the past followed a low-
fat, Pritikin-like diet and felt better. He was really ready for a
change and wanted to fast. He wanted me to see his son to

24
evaluate whether he also could join the fasting group. C.D. was
an overweight (181, 5’9") teenager on a typical teenage diet but
inspired toward health.
B.D. did incredibly well on the Master Cleanser for 10 days,
feeling fine and energetic and dropping his weight to 213. His
new diet plan became more vegetarian, wholesome, and low
fat, and included one- to two-day fasts weekly, plus a week-long
fast every few months. A follow-up four months later found him
well and busy in a new job. His weight had gotten to a low of
195 and he stabilized at about 202 with his diet. The positive
value he received was that he realized that he could be in
control of his diet. He was in much better shape and his self-
esteem was much higher; of course he could see his feet and
the earth again as his pant size dropped from 42" to 36".
C.D. dropped his weight from 182 to 171 with the fast and was
an inspiration to the fasting group. His body and face changed
dramatically. New activities and exercise were added to his
regimen, and he now is a more serious bicyclist. C.D.’s diet also
changed dramatically to enjoying salads and fruits, some
grains, and fish and poultry. He got away from the sweets,
sodas, salt snacks, and fried foods he was eating before. Now
at 165, he feels great!
Hazards of FastingIf fasting is overused, it may create
depletion and weakness, lower resistance, and allow diseases
to begin. Certain people are not good candidates for fasting or
cleansing. Others may enjoy fasting so much that they
overindulge in it and take it beyond the limits of normal
elimination, resulting in protein and other nutritional deficits,
reduced immunity, and loss of energy. While fasting allows the
organs, tissues, and cells to rest, clean house, and handle
excesses, the body needs the nourishment provided by food to
function after it has used its stores.

Many people of the world are involuntary fasters, while those of

the Western nations are more likely to be feasters. In Third
World countries, many starvation deaths result from the disease
of protein deficiency, termed kwashiorkor, and protein-calorie
malnutrition, known as marasmus. What happens to these
people is what happens with chronic fasting—loss of muscle

25
mass, weight, and energy, and finally swelling and death.

Malnourished people should definitely not fast, nor should some

overweight people who are undernourished. Others who should
not fast include people with fatigue resulting from nutrient
deficiency, those with chronic degenerative disease of the
muscles or bones, or those who are underweight. Diseases
associated with clogged or toxic organs respond better to
fasting. Sluggish men or women who retain water or whose
weight is concentrated in their hips and legs often do poorly
with fasting. Those with low daytime energy and more vitality at
night (more yin or alkaline types) may not enjoy fasting, either.

I do not suggest fasting for pregnant or lactating women.

People who have weak hearts, such as those with congestive
heart failure, or who have weakened immunity usually are not
good candidates for fasting. Before or after surgery is not a
good time to fast, as the body then needs its nourishment to
handle the stress and healing demands of surgery. Although
some of the nutritional therapies for cancer include fasting, I do
not recommend fasting for cancer patients, especially those
with advanced problems. Ulcer disease is not something for
which I usually suggest fasting, either, although fasting may be
beneficial for other conditions present in a patient whose ulcer
is under control. Many clinics and fasting practitioners do
believe in fasting for ulcers, however. In the first test case of the
Master Cleanser (lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper,
and water), Stanley Burroughs claims to have cured a patient
with an intractable ulcer. Mr. Burroughs used the two main
ingredients that all doctors suggested that this patient avoid,
citrus and spice, which he figured were the only things left that
might heal the ulcer. The fasting process itself probably is
helpful for ulcers, since it reduces stomach acid and aids in
tissue healing. And cayenne pepper, even though it is hot, has
a healing effect on mucous membranes, and in herbal
medicine, it is commonly recommended for ulcers. So, even
though peptic ulcers are on the contraindication list, some ulcer
people may do very well with fasting, especially with
cabbage/vegetable juices.

26
 Contraindications for Fasting

Underweight Pregnancy
Fatigue Nursing
Fatigue Nursing
Alkaline type Pre- and postsurgery
Low immunity Mental illness
Weak heart Cancer
Low blood pressure Peptic ulcers
Cardiac arrhythmias Nutritional deficiencies
Cold weather

As with any therapy that has some physiological effect and

benefit, fasting also may have some hazards. The potential for
the development of these problems is maximized with lengthy,
noncaloric or water fasts and minimized with juice fasting of
reasonable length, such as one to two weeks. Clearly,
excessive weight loss and nutritional deficiencies may occur,
again more marked with water fasts (juices provide calories and
nutrients, although they do not provide complete nutrition).
Weakness may occur, or muscle cramps may result from
mineral deficits. Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and
phosphorus losses occur initially but diminish after a week.
Blood pressure drops, and this can lead to episodes of
dizziness, especially when changing position from lying to
sitting or sitting to standing. Uric acid levels may rise, which
may result in acute gout attacks or a uric acid kidney stone,
although this is rare. This problem is minimized with adequate
fluid intake.

Some research reports have described hormone level changes

with fasting. Initially, the level of thyroid hormone falls, but it
rises again in association with protein-sparing ketosis. Female
hormone levels fall, possibly as a result of protein malnutrition,
and this can lead to loss of menstrual flow; that is, secondary

27
amenorrhea. This cessation of the periods in women is also
seen in longtime vegetarians, especially those who engage in
extensive exercise programs.

Cardiac problems, such as abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias),

can occur more easily with prolonged fasting and/or with
subclinical preexisting problems. Extra beats, both ventricular
and atrial, have been seen, and there have been deaths from
serious ventricular arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia,
most often occurring during long water fasts. Similar problems
have occurred recently in people using the nutrient-deficient
protein powders that have been freely sold; many unhealthy
weight reducers have been put at risk by using these powders
over extended periods on unmonitored fasts. This risk is
minimized with juice fasting (up to two weeks) or when basic
minerals, mainly potassium, calcium, and magnesium, are
supplemented during water fasts. Having our progress followed
medically through physical exams, blood tests, and even
electrocardiograms is a way to protect ourselves from the
potential hazards of fasting.

Another side effect of fasting involves its transformative aspects

and how they relate to personal life changes. Often we maintain
certain relationships and attitudes toward other people or our
careers by resisting inner guidance, feelings, and desires to do
something new. Divorce, job changes, and moves are all more
likely after fasts, because fasting often stimulates self-
realization and change, enhances our potential, and leads us to
focus on where we are going, rather than where we have been.
During fasting transitions, many people question all aspects of
their lives and make new plans for the future. They also have
new sensitivity to and awareness of their job, mate, home, and
so on. I warn fasters before they begin that these experiences
may arise and their lives may change, especially when I sense
that they are not really committed to or believe in what they are
doing. Even though these insights and changes may be
traumatic, my belief is that they are ultimately positive, as they
support the evolutionary purpose of the human being. In this
way, fasting helps us follow our true nature.

28
How to FastIn the thousands of people I have observed
during fasting and detox programs, the complications have
been negligible, provided that proper procedures have been
followed and attention paid to the ongoing body changes.
Usually, people feel fine, even euphoric after a few days,
although there may be ups and downs or various symptoms;
yet, overall, in my experience, changes are positive.

The general plan for fasting works progressively, from a

moderate approach for new fasters and unhealthy subjects to a
stricter program for the more experienced. It is important to take
the proper time with this potentially powerful process and not
jump into a water fast from an average American carnivorous
diet. Although many people do fine even if they make such
extreme changes, it clearly maximizes the risks of fasting.

A sensible daily plan is one where fasting is mixed with eating.

Each day can include a 12-14 hour period of fasting in the
evening and during sleep before awakening and getting ready
for the day. (Breakfast was given that name to denote the time
where we break the fast of the night.) Many people eat very
lightly or not at all in the early morning to extend their daily fast.
This is more important if dinner or snacking tends to be
extended into the later evening, though this is not ideal. On the
other hand, if we eat a decent, not excessive, meal in the early
evening and awaken hungry, a good breakfast can be
consumed after water intake and some exercise.

In preparation for our first day of fasting, we may want to take a

few days to eliminate some foods or habits from our diet. When
many self-indulgent habits exist, longer preparations may be
indicated. Eliminating alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, and sugar if
possible is very helpful, although some people choose to wait
until their actual fast days to clear these. Red meats and other
animal foods, including milk products and eggs, could be
avoided for a day or two before fasting. Intake of most
nutritional supplements can also be curtailed the day before
fasting; these are usually not recommended during a fast. Many
people do well by preparing for their fasts with three or four
days of consuming only fruit and vegetable foods. These

29
nourish and slowly detoxify the body so that the actual fasting
will be less intense.

The first one-day fast (actually 36 hours, including the nights—

from 8 p.m. one night until 8 a.m. the following day) gives us a
chance to see what a short fast can be like, to see that it is not
so very difficult and does not cause any major distress. Most
people will feel a little hungry at times and may experience a
few mild symptoms (such as a headache or irritability) by the
end of the day, usually around late afternoon or dinnertime, but
this depends on the individual and the state of toxicity. In
actuality, the first two days are the hardest for most people.
Feeling great usually begins around day three, so longer juice
fasts are really needed for the grand experience.

One of the problems with fasting is that it can be the most

difficult for those who need it the most, such as the regular
three-square-meals-plus-snacks consumers who eat whatever
and whenever they want. Often such people must start with
more subtle diet changes and prepare even more slowly for
fasting. A transition plan that can be used before even going on
the one-day fast is the one-meal-a-day plan. The one daily meal
is usually eaten around 3 p.m. Water, juices, and teas and even
some fresh fruit or vegetable snacks can be eaten at other
times. The one wholesome meal is not excessive or rich. It can
be a protein-vegetable meal, such as fish and salad or steamed
vegetables, or a starch-vegetable meal, such as brown rice and
mixed steamed greens, carrots, celery, and zucchini. People on
this plan start to detox slowly, lose some weight, and after a few
days feel pretty sound. The chance of any strong symptoms
developing, as might occur with fasting, is minimal with this type
of transition, and the actual fast, when begun, will be handled
more easily, also.

The goal, then, is to move into a one-day fast and then a few
two- and three-day fasts with one or two days between them
when light foods and more raw fruits and vegetables are
consumed, and also provide fluids, juices, soups, and a
generally alkaline cleansing diet. This way, we can build up to a
five- to ten-day fast. When the transition is made this slowly,
even a water fast can be less intense and more profound for

30
those wishing a powerful personal and spiritual experience.
With a water fast, however, I strongly suggest medical
monitoring and retreating from usual daily life.

A juice fast, which I usually recommend, can be longer and is

much easier for most people. The fresh juices of raw fruits and
vegetables are what most fasting clinics and practitioners
recommend. They provide calories and nutrients on which to
function and build new cells, and also provide the inherent
enzymes contained in these vital foods. (Food enzyme theories,
discussed throughout this century, have recently been
described in books such as Enzyme Nutrition by Dr. Edward
Howell.) Raw foods are considered the healing force in our diet
because they contain active enzymes, which are broken down
when foods are cooked. Many health enthusiasts consider a
raw-food diet the most healing and most nutritious diet.

For the inexperienced faster, it is best to go slowly through the

various steps and to avoid being excessive or impatient so that
we learn about ourselves in the process. To do this, we need to
make a plan and put it into effect, observing or "listening" to our
body and even keeping notes in a journal. Get to really know
yourself. Then, once we have fasted successfully, we could
continue to do one-day fasts weekly or a three-day fast every
month if we need them. This helps to reconnect us with a better
diet and to remotivate us toward our goal of optimum health.

In a more adventurous mode, many people, even some who

have never fasted, begin with a seven- to ten-day or even
longer fast on fresh juices. I recommend this for most people
who have any of the indications and none of the
contraindications discussed in this program (also see General
Detoxification). People planning these longer fasts, especially
inexperienced fasters who have been eating a random diet,
should spend a period about equal in length to the planned fast
preparing for it. During this preparatory period we can follow
some of the previous suggestions, such as eliminating sugar
and refined foods, fatty foods, chemicals, and drugs from the
diet and reducing consumption of meats and other acid-forming
foods, and then moving into several days of consuming
primarily fruits and vegetables and more fluids. This will lead

31
into an easier and more energizing fast.

For any cleansing period, it is essential to plan times to

meditate, exercise, get fresh air and sunshine, clear our
intestines, get massages, take baths, clean our house, brush
our skin, and more. Maybe you thought you were going to sit
back and relax and have juice delivered to your room? With
less shopping, food preparation, and eating time, we have more
hours in the day to take care of ourselves in other ways. These
supportive aspects of cleansing are discussed further below.

Timing of FastsThe two key times for natural cleansing are

the times of transition into spring and autumn. (This is
discussed in other sections of this book, such as in Chapter 9
on Diets and the General Detoxification program earlier in this
chapter, and emphasized in my first book, Staying Healthy With
the Seasons.) In Chinese medicine, the transition time between
the seasons is considered to be about ten days before and after
the equinox or solstice. For spring, this period is about March
10 through April 1; for autumn, it is from about September 11
through October 2. In cooler climates, where spring weather
begins later and autumn earlier, the fasting can be scheduled
appropriately, as it is easier to do in warmer weather. With
fasting, the body tends to cool down. In the General
Detoxification program, there is also a complete yearly cycle for
cleansing with a variety of ideas and options. For spring, I
usually suggest lemon and/or greens as the focus of the
cleansing. Diluted lemon water, lemon and honey, or, my
favorite, the Master Cleanser, could be used.

Spring Master Cleanser

2 Tablespoons fresh
lemon or lime juice
1 Tablespoon pure maple
syrup

32
 ¼ teaspoon cayenne
pepper
8 ounces spring water

Mix and drink 8-12 glasses a day. Eat or drink nothing else
except water, laxative herb tea, and peppermint or chamomile
tea.

Fresh fruit or vegetable juices diluted with an equal amount of

water will also provide a good cleansing. Some vegetable
choices are carrots, celery, beets, and lots of greens. Soup
broths can also be used. Juices with blue-green algae, such as
spirulina or chlorella, mixed in can provide more energy, as
these are high-protein plants and easily assimilable.

Autumn is the second most important cleansing time, when we

prepare for a new health program, focus on our career or
school year, and let go of the fun and games of summer. At this
time, a fast of at least three to five days can be done, using
water or a variety of juices, including the Master Cleanser,
apples and/or grapes (usually mixed with a little lemon and
water to reduce sweetness), vegetable juices, and warm broths.

How do we know how long to fast? We may use a certain time

plan, such as discussed above. Ideally, though, we should
follow our own individual cycles and our body’s needs. As we
gain some fasting experience, we should become attuned to
when we need to strengthen or lighten our diet and when we
need to cleanse. Usually, if we are under stress or have been
overindulging or develop some congestive symptoms, we want
to lighten our diet to balance this. If more changes are needed,
a more cleansing, raw-food diet or a fast can be begun.

A special light, purifying soup is offered by Bethany ArgIsle.

33
 Autumn Rejuvenation Ration

3 cups spring water

1 Tablespoon ginger root, chopped
1-2 Tablespoons miso paste
1-2 stalks green onion, chopped
cilantro, to taste, chopped
1-2 pinches cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons olive oil
juice of ½ lemon

Boil water. Add ginger root. Simmer 10 minutes. Stir in miso

paste to taste. Turn off fire. Then add green onion, some
cilantro, cayenne, olive oil, lemon juice. Remove from burner
and cover to steep for 10 minutes. May vary ingredient portions
to satisfy flavors. Enjoy.

Breaking a FastWhen to stop fasting and make a transition

back into eating also takes some inner attunement. Things to
watch for include energy level, weight, detox symptoms, tongue
coating, and degree of hunger. If our energy is up and then falls
for more than a day or if our weight gets too low, these may be
signs that we should come off the fast. If symptoms are intense
or if any suddenly appear, it is possible that we need food.
Generally, the tongue is a good indicator of our state of toxicity
or cleansing and clarity. With fasting, the tongue usually
becomes coated with a white, yellow, or gray film. This
represents the body’s cleansing, and it will usually clear when
the detox cycle is complete. Tongue observation is not a
foolproof indicator, however. Some people’s tongues may coat
very little, while others will remain coated. In this case, if we
were to wait until it totally cleared, we may overextend our
cleanse. If in doubt, it is better to make the transition back to
foods and then cleanse again later. Hunger is another sign of
readiness to move back into eating. Often during cleansing

34
times, hunger is minimal. Occasionally, people are very hungry
throughout a fast, but most lose interest in food from day three
to day seven or ten and then experience real, deep-seated
hunger again. This is a sign to eat (carefully!).

It is important to make a gradual transition into a regular diet,

rather than just going out to dinner after a week-long fast.
Breaking a fast must be planned and done slowly and carefully
to prevent creating symptoms and sickness. It is suggested that
we take several days, or half of our total cleansing time, to
move back into our diet, which is hopefully a newly planned,
more healthful diet. Our digestion has been at rest, so we need
to go slowly and chew our foods very well. If we have fasted on
water alone, we need to prepare our digestive tract with diluted
juices, perhaps beginning with a few teaspoons of fresh orange
juice in a glass of water and progressing to stronger mixtures
throughout the day. Diluted grape or orange juice will stimulate
the digestion. Arnold Ehret, a European fasting expert and
proponent of the "mucusless" diet, suggests that fruits and fruit
juices should not be used right after a meat eater’s first fast
because they may coagulate intestinal mucus and cause
problems. More likely, a meat eater’s colon bacteria are
different than a vegetarian’s; with fruit sugars, the active gram-
positive anaerobic bacteria in the meat eater will produce more
toxins. Initially, a transition from meats to more vegetable foods
will then allow a smoother fast, mainly with vegetable juices and
broths. They could also take extra acidophilus to begin to shift
their colon ecology.

With juice fasting, it is easier to make the transition back into

foods. A raw or cooked low-starch vegetable, such as spinach
or other greens, can be used. A little sauerkraut, a fermented
cabbage, helps to stimulate the digestive function. A laxative-
type meal, such as grapes, cherries, or soaked or stewed
prunes, can also be used to initiate eating, as it is important to
keep the bowels moving. Some experts say that the bowels
should move within an hour or two after the first meal. If not,
take an enema. Some people may do a saltwater flush (drinking
a quart of water with 2 teaspoons of sea salt dissolved in it)
before their first day of food.

35
However you make the transition, go slowly, chew well, and do
not overeat or mix too many foods at a meal. Simple vegetable
meals, salads, or soups can be used to start. Fruit should be
eaten alone. Soaked prunes or figs are helpful. Well-cooked
brown rice or millet is handled well by most people by the
second day. From there, progress slowly through grains and
vegetables. Some nuts, seeds, or legumes can be added, and
then richer protein foods if these are desired. Coming back into
foods is a crucial time for learning individual responses or
reactions to them. You may even wish to keep notes, following
such areas as energy level, intestinal function, sleep patterns,
and food desires. If you respond poorly to a food, avoid it for a
while, perhaps a week, and then eat it alone to see how it feels.

Juice SpecificsSome juices work better for certain people

or conditions. In general, diluted fresh juices of raw organic
fruits and vegetables are best. Canned and frozen juices should
be avoided. Some bottled juice may be used, but fresh
squeezed is best, as long as it is used soon after squeezing.

Water and other liquids are what primarily cleanse our system,
increasing waste elimination—rather like squeezing out a dirty
sponge in clean water. Lemon tends to loosen and bring out
mucus and is useful for liver cleansing. Diluted lemon juice, with
or without a little honey, or the Master Cleanser can loosen
mucus fast, so if this is used, we need to cleanse the bowels
regularly to prevent getting sick. Most vegetable juices are a
little milder than lemon juice.

Each juice has a certain nutritional composition and probably

certain physiological actions, although these have not been
studied extensively. We can think of fresh juices as natural
vitamin pills with a very high assimilation percentage, and we
do not need to do the work of digesting them.

In general, some juices are more caloric than others and might
be used less if more weight loss is desired. The juices of
apples, grapes, oranges, and carrots are good cleansing juices
but might be minimized for weight loss. More grapefruit, lemon,
cucumber, and greens, such as lettuce, spinach, or parsley,
may be more helpful in this situation. Also, a variety of juices

36
can be used in a fast with different ones squeezed daily.

Fruit Juices

Lemon—liver, gallbladder, allergies, asthma, cardiovascular

disease (CVD), colds
Citrus—CVD, obesity, hemorrhoids, varicose veins
Apple—liver, intestines
Pear—gallbladder
Grape—colon, anemia
Papaya—stomach, indigestion, hemorrhoids, colitis
Pineapple—allergies, arthritis, inflammation, edema,
hemorrhoids
Watermelon—kidneys, edema
Black cherry—colon, menstrual problems, gout

Vegetable Juices
Greens—CVD, skin, eczema, digestive problems, obesity,
breath
Spinach—anemia, eczema
Parsley—kidneys, edema, arthritis
Beet greens—gallbladder, liver, osteoporosis
Watercress—anemia, colds
Wheat grass—anemia, liver, intestines, breath
Cabbage—colitis, ulcers
Comfrey—intestines, hypertension, osteoporosis
Carrots—eyes, arthritis, osteoporosis
Beets—blood, liver, menstrual problems, arthritis
Celery—kidneys, diabetes, osteoporosis
Cucumber—edema, diabetes
Jerusalem artichokes—diabetes
Garlic—allergies, colds, hypertension, CVD, high fats, diabetes
Radish—liver, high fats, obesity
Potatoes—intestines, ulcer

37
These juices may be helpful for particular organs or illnesses,
based on my experience as well as information contained in
Paavo Airola’s How to Get Well. To prepare juices, we
obviously want to start with the freshest and most chemical-free
fruits and vegetables possible. They should be cleaned or
soaked and stored properly. If there is a question of toxicity,
sprays, or parasites, a chlorine bleach bath can be used (see
Chapter 11). If not organic, they should be peeled, especially if
they are waxed. With root vegetables such as carrots or beets,
the above-ground ends should be trimmed. Some people like to
drop their vegetables into a pot of boiling water for a minute or
so for cleansing as well.

The best juicers are the compressors, such as the Norwalk

brand, but these are very expensive. The rotary-blade juicers,
such as the Champion, are good at squeezing the juice with
minimum molecular irritation. The centrifuge juicers are also
fine, but they waste juice left in the pulp. Blenders are not really
juicers; what they make is more like liquid salads. These are
high in fiber. I once did a energizing week-long fast with two
blender drinks a day, fruits in the morning and vegetables in the
late afternoon, with teas and water in between.

Other Aspects of Healthy Fasting

• Fresh air—plenty is needed to support cleansing and
oxygenation of the cells and tissues.
• Sunshine—also needed to revitalize our body; avoid
excessive exposure.
• Water—bathing is very important to cleanse the skin at least
twice daily. Steams and saunas are also good for giving
warmth as well as supporting detoxification.
• Skin brushing—with a dry, soft brush prior to bathing; this
will help clear toxins from the skin. This is a good year-
round practice as well.
• Exercise—very important to support the cleansing process. It
helps to relax the body, clear wastes, and prevent toxicity
symptoms. Walking, bicycling, swimming, or other usual
exercises can usually be done during a fast, although
more dangerous or contact sports might be avoided.

38
• No drugs—none should be used during fasts except
mandatory prescription drugs. Particularly, avoidance of
alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine is wise.
• Vitamin supplements—these are not used during fasting;
thus, no program of nutrients will follow at the end of this
section. Some supplemental fiber, such as psyllium
husks, can be part of a colon detox program. Special
chlorophyll foods, such as green barley, chlorella, and
spirulina, may also be vitality enhancers and purifiers
during cleanses. Occasionally, some mineral support,
especially potassium, calcium, and magnesium, or
vitamin C will be suggested, usually in powdered or liquid
forms (pills are not suggested) to help in preventing
cramps, if there is a lot of physical activity, sweating, and
fluid and mineral losses, or for an extended fast. Some
people even use amino acid powders and other vitamin
powders with some benefit during cleanses. In general,
most of these supplemental nutrients are best used with
foods.
• Colon cleansing—an essential part of healthy fasting. Some
form of bowel stimulation is recommended. Colonic
irrigations with water are the most thorough. These can
be done at the beginning, midpoint, and end of the fast. It
is suggested that enemas be used at least every other
day if these are the primary colon cleansing. Fasting
clinics often suggest that enemas be used daily, even up
to several times a day. With these, usually water alone is
used to flush the colon of toxins. It may be helpful for an
enema or laxative preparation to be used the day before
the fast begins to lessen initial toxicity. Herbal laxatives
are commonly taken orally during fasting, and many
formulas are available, as capsules or for making teas.
These include cascara sagrada, senna leaves, licorice
root, buckthorn, rhubarb root, aloe vera, and the LB
formula of Dr. Christopher. Laci LeBeau tea is also very
effective. The saltwater flush, or internal bath,
recommended by Stanley Burroughs to be used with the
Master Cleanser, is useful for those who can tolerate it. A
solution of 2 teaspoons of sea salt is dissolved in a quart
of warm purified water (not distilled) and is drunk first

39
 thing in the morning on alternate days throughout the fast
to flush the entire intestinal tract, an advantage of this
cleansing formula. It does not, however, work well for
everyone. For example, it is not recommended for salt-
sensitive or water-retaining people, or for hypertensives.
Whatever colon cleansing method is used, keep in mind
that regular cleansing of the intestines and colon is a key
component to healthy and stress-free fasting.
• Work and be creative—and make plans for your life. Staying
busy is helpful in breaking our ties to food. We also need
time for ourselves. Most fasters experience greater work
energy and more creativity and, naturally, find lots to do.
• Cleanup—a motto during fasting. As we clean our body, we
want to clean our room, desk, office, closet, and home—
just like "spring cleaning." It clearly brings us into
harmony with the cleansing process of nutrition. If we
want to get ready for the new, we need to make space by
clearing out the old.
• Joining others in fasting can generate strong bonds and
provide an added spiritual lift. It opens up new supportive
relationships and new levels of existing ones. It will also
provide support if we feel down or want to quit. Most
people feel better as their fast progresses—more vital,
lighter, less blocked, more flexible, clearer, and more
spiritually attuned. For many, it is nice to have someone
with whom to share this. Call our clinic or another that
offers this service.
• Avoid the negative influence of others who may not
understand or support us. There are many fears and
misconceptions about fasting, and they may affect us.
We need to listen to our own inner guidance and not to
others’ limitations, but we also need to maintain
awareness and insight into any problems should they
arise. Being in contact with fasters will provide us with the
positive support we need.
• The economy of fasting allows us to save time, money, and
future health care costs. While we may be worried about
not having enough, we may already have too much.
Many of us are inspired to share more of ourselves when
we are freed from food.

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• Meditation and relaxation are also an important aspect of
fasting to help attune us to deeper levels of ourselves
and clear the stresses that we have carried with us.
• Spiritual practice and prayer will affirm our positive attitude
toward ourselves and life in general. This supports our
meditation and relaxation and provides us with the inner
fuel to carry on our life with purpose and passion.
ConclusionFasting can easily become a way of life and an
effective dietary practice. Over a period of time (different for
each of us), through newly gained clarity, we can go from
symptom cleansing to prevention fasting. Ideally, we should fast
at specific times to treat symptoms and/or to enhance our
vitality and spiritual practice. (See the cleansing schedule in the
General Detoxification program.) Otherwise, we should support
ourselves regularly with a balanced, wholesome diet. This diet
may change somewhat through the year as we experience
different needs, and occasional fasting or feasting may be
valuable. We also must maintain good digestion and
elimination.

Fasting is needed more frequently by those who have abused

themselves with foods or other agents so readily available
these days. We all need to return to the cycle of a daily fast of
12-14 hours overnight until our morning "break-fast," and then
find our own natural pattern of food consumption. This usually
means one main meal and two lighter ones. For low-weight,
high-metabolism people, two larger or three moderately sized
meals are probably needed. If we eat a heavier evening meal,
we need only a light breakfast, and vice versa. Through
awareness and experience, we can find our individual
nutritional needs and listen to that inner nutritionist, our body.

Choosing healthful foods, chewing well, and maintaining good

colon function minimize our need for fasting. However, if we do
get out of balance, we can employ the oldest treatment known
to us, the instinctive therapy for many illnesses, nature’s doctor
and knifeless surgeon, the great therapist and tool for
preventing disease—fasting!

[Link]

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