The Daniel Fast is a 21-day spiritual fast. Those who embark on the fast follow a fast similar to the fasts that the prophet Daniel underwent during his life. The essence of the Daniel Fast is to bring followers into a closer relationship with God. During Daniel's first 10-day fast, he only consumed vegetables and water as nourishment. During a 21-day fast, it is written that Daniel abstained from wine, meats and other choice foods, which were eaten at the royal table. Strict adherents to this fast only allow fruits, vegetables and water. Others choose a path that allows for any harvestable foods including grains and legumes.
Prayerfully Prepare Yourself
Whichever version of the fast you choose, be clear with your dietary goals. Write them out and pray. Prayer will help you focus on why you are fasting and turn your focus to what you need to change to bring you into a deeper spiritual state.
Prepare Your Pantry
Temptation may be impossible to avoid, but it is much easier to evade when it is not facing you on your pantry shelves. Remove processed foods, leavened breads, sodas and canned meats from your pantry. Keep any meats you do not wish to discard at the back of your freezer out of view.
Consult Your Physician
The Daniel Fast is a path to spiritual health. It should not negatively impact physical health in any way. If you have medical conditions like diabetes, kidney disease or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with both your physician and your spiritual leader. The Daniel Fast clearly allows for alterations to meet special nutritional and health needs.
Plan Meals
Plan your meals ahead of time. Make shopping lists and stick to them. Keeping a clean pantry will help you stay on the fast. Planning your meals ahead of time ensures that you will have a variety of options you will enjoy.
Plan Snacks
While the Daniel Fast is not a strict fast, it is still a fast and excess eating should be avoided. Snacks should be modest and consist of simple fruits or vegetables.
Drink Water
Hydration is essential in any diet. When partaking in a partial fast, water is critical. Dehydration often presents itself as hunger. This makes sense, as many foods, especially fruits and vegetables, consist mostly of water. Drink at least 64 oz. of water daily.
Fast in Community
Having support makes it easier to stick to your goals. Spiritual journeys are often taken in community. Daniel's first 10-day fast was undertaken with three other Israelites. Another benefit to fasting with others is a sense of accountability. If you feel as though others are depending on you or looking to you as an example, you are more likely to continue on your desired path.
Listen to Your Body
Remember, the Daniel Fast should not cause any physical harm. If you are feeling lightheaded or weak, consult your physician. It is likely that you will experience physical changes while following the Daniel Fast, especially if you are used to a diet that includes caffeine or large amounts of refined carbohydrates. Keeping a food journal will help you track the physical effects you notice and it can help you associate certain foods with their effects on your body.
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