How to Eat After a Short Water Fast

A bowl of chicken broth sop on a table.
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When water fasting, you consume nothing but water for a period of days. Some individuals use this type of fast for health reasons – to lose weight or clear toxins from the body. Others may use a water fast to help clear their minds and go into a meditative state. Whatever the reason for starting the fast, the fast will eventually end and you need to start eating again. Even if you only do a short fast, you need to be mindful when you start eating.

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Step 1

Drink a mixture of one part fruit or vegetable juice with one part water the morning of the first day after your fast. It should be 100 percent juice with no added sugar. If possible, make your own juice with a juicer. The diluted juice will provide you with nutrients without irritating your digestive system.

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Step 2

Eat or drink a cup of vegetable or chicken broth in the afternoon of the first day after your fast. Eat a piece of bread or some plain crackers with the broth, if desired. Continue drinking the diluted juice. The broth will provide more nutrients and prepare your digestive system for heavier foods.

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Step 3

Consume a heavier soup, such as vegetable or minestrone, in the evening of the first day after your fast. Have a small, undressed salad with fresh fruits and vegetables. Drink a glass of undiluted juice.

Step 4

Continue consuming the fresh fruits and vegetables, soups and juices the second day after your fast. Add dairy products such as milk or yogurt on the evening of the second day.

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Step 5

Eat the fresh fruits and vegetables, soups, juices and dairy on the third day. Incorporate meats, fish or eggs, if desired.

Step 6

Resume eating normally on the fourth day.

Things You'll Need

  • 100 percent fruit juice

  • 100 percent vegetable juice

  • Juicer (optional)

  • Vegetable or chicken broth

  • Breads or crackers

  • Soup

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables

  • Dairy products

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Is this an emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the National Library of Medicine’s list of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911.

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