Fast Your Way Into the New Year
Dr. Carlos  Health Expert

Do you feel ready to make some serious changes to your lifestyle?  Surely you want to feel and look even better. The great news is that it is nearly free to achieve better skin, shinier hair, flatter abs, and tons more energy. In fact, we’re going to achieve this by doing virtually nothing at all.

Fasting is described in oral and written tradition far back in human history.  Ancient cultures from Egypt, to China and Europe, and all Aboriginal nations, use periodic fasting as a means to achieve eternal health as well as to attain higher levels of spirituality. Numerous Old and New Testament passages allude to the restriction of food as a means to break through personal struggles in one’s life.

Though fasting literally means going completely without food, there are many different types of fasts that accommodate even the most demanding schedules. Some programs restrict most foods, yes, while others simply get you off your typical routine. The idea is to use cleansing herbs and drinks designed to rid the body of toxic buildup and boost up cell regeneration. Just watch how your eyes, hair, skin, and nails shine once you give it a try.

A short fast can last for 24 to 48 hours, while longer ones of two weeks or more are not unheard of. If this is a new concept for you, I recommend shorter programs done on a monthly or at least quarterly basis. I find that people tend to get sick most often when the weather changes, so I like to fast at the change of each season. I’ll also do a brief fast after a long trip where I might have been off my usual nutrition and exercise routine.

Regardless of which type of fast you choose, here are a few guidelines to follow:

1.      If you suffer from any major health conditions be sure to consult with your health care provider first.

2.      Prepare your body for the fast by stopping all animal products (meat, eggs, fish, dairy), grains, and of course processed foods, and soda pop, alcohol, and coffee for 24-48 hours prior to beginning.

3.      Fasts are best done over a long weekend, when you can take time out of your normal routine. Do not fast while engulfed in your usual work schedule. You’ll need a bathroom close by anyway, as an effective fast cleans your body.

4.      Proper mindset is key to a successful fast. Be sure your surroundings are peaceful and non-distracting so you can conserve your energy and maximize your experience.  

5.      A detox can be an exhausting process, so minimize exercise. Keep to light walking, swimming, or hiking and avoid competitive activities. While it’s incredibly beneficial, it is work for the body to get busy and cleanse. Get your sleep, too.

6.      Focus on enjoyment of a hobby you love and may not have taken the time to enjoy. Or use this quieter time to discover a new one!

7.      Watch your tummy flatten. We can carry some ten pounds or more of waste in our intestines at any given time. Fasting is a great way to reduce that, and general inflammation. 

8.      Of course, you will need to hydrate yourself even more while fasting. No less than a gallon of purified water throughout the day is essential to help your kidneys flush the extra toxins your body is releasing.  Fat cells release a lot of toxins, and the liver will also be working diligently. It’s important to provide lots of water so these can be washed away.

Next week I’ll post a couple of sample routines you’ll find easy to follow. Meantime, schedule your fast, follow the guidelines, and then bask in the results! 

Healthiest regards,

Dr. Carlos