Fasting can eliminate toxins from the body. According to "The Miracle of Fasting" by Paul C. Bragg, the digestive system takes up much of the body's natural energy. Taking a short break from eating altogether or eliminating foods that tax the digestive system can allow the body to divert this energy to eliminating toxins and rejuvenating many of its tissues. However, fasting is not for everyone and should not be undertaken without a doctor's supervision.
Step 1
Fast from one to three days depending on your level of experience. Beginners should not undertake a fast of seven or more days, without first experimenting with shorter-duration fasts. According to "The Miracle of Fasting", even 24-hour fasts, once per week, can have a significant impact on eliminating bodily toxins.
Step 2
Increase water intake. Water is essential to many of your bodily functions and you are far more likely to become dehydrated when you abstain from taking in food. Aim for drinking at least eight 16 oz. glasses of water every day.
Step 3
Eat only fresh fruits and vegetables, their juices and/or nuts and seeds if you must eat. According to "Fasting & Detoxifying in the New Year" by ShaNay Norvell, these foods will actually help to nourish and detoxify the body at the same time, without putting added stress on the digestive system.
Step 4
Practice active relaxation by avoiding activities that stress the body. "The Miracle of Fasting" recommends a stress-free fast, which may include refraining from telling your friends and family about your fasting activity. Always consult with your doctor before fasting. Friend and family on the other hand may have negative feelings about your fast, which can be counterproductive to your fasting goals.
Step 5
Refrain from taking in toxins such as sugar, caffeine, meat, dairy, nicotine and/or alcohol. The whole point of your fast is to rid the body of toxins, so taking in more toxins will only serve to negate the positive effects of fasting.
Step 6
Exercise at a low intensity if you choose to workout. High-intensity training can cause adverse effects including fainting, dehydration and muscle wasting. A brisk walk should provide all the exercise you will need in a fasted state.
Step 7
Drink an apple cider vinegar energy cocktail three to five times per day. According to "The Miracle of Fasting", this drink can help to suppress hunger, eliminate toxins and energize the body during a fast. Mix 2 tbsp organic apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp organic honey (stevia for diabetics), 8 oz distilled water and lemon to taste.
Tips and Warnings
- Take a branched-chain amino acid, L-glutamine and/or liquid amino acid supplement to avoid muscle-wasting during your fast.
- Never take in fewer than 1200 calories per day unless under the supervision of a doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Organic apple cider vinegar
- Organic honey
- Stevia
- Distilled water
- Lemon
References
- BodyBuilding.com; Fasting & Detoxifying in the New Year; ShaNay Norvell
- "The Miracle of Fasting"; Paul C. Bragg; 2009
- "Combat the Fat"; Jeff Anderson; 2008
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