The Science of Fasting

SoggyBottomBoy said
Okay, I found and read this thread over the weekend. I watched the documentary posted by Expat in the OP. Fascinating and almost unbelievable.

I intend to do more research and re-read the thread because of the many good posts.

I'd like to give this a go, but I don't want to do it unsafely and I haven't done the homework. Because of lent I'm attempting a fast for Ash Wednesday (last meal was last night at about 19:00). What are the rules to fasting - just water? Any nuts or broth, etc.?

I'm hoping to go at least 36 hours.

And does someone have a link to the 8-hour eating window that was mentioned earlier?

I'm sure I'll be back with more questions, later - if I don't pass out. Thanks in advance.

Most of what I read said to ease into a fast rather than just cold turkey. That would be reducing calories for a couple days with just light meals or juices/soups before and after.

I'd think 36 hrs would be no problem for most people medically, but you might want to talk to a Dr first especially if you have any medical conditions. I'd probably recommend starting with a 16 hr fast window and 8 hr eating window for a few weeks to work up to the total fasting which yes would be just water or coffee without sugar/cream.

I used this site before even seeing the video get started with lots of info on different methods. YMMV

http://www.allaboutfasting.com/types-of-fasting.html

http://www.allaboutfasting.com/intermittent-fasting.html

FYI, down 40#'s since my heaviest. Was stuck at 210 and 200 for a while, but made it to 189 this morning. My Dr. is going to be impressed as his goal for me was 185, but I think I'll try to get back to 155-160 eventually.