Is Fasting Safe? A Deeper Look
Fasting or cleansing have become all the rage in the wellness world but fasting fans aside, should you do it? Does it really work or are you likely to put the weight back on? Is it helpful for giving your organs a break? This is not a doctors advice. In the event that you change your diet, you should talk to a doctor.
Cleansing really depends on your dosha. To find out your dosha go to WhatsYourDosha.com and take the test to find out where you fall. Im mostly pitta, which is characterized by a pretty mean appetite. Fasting in too dramatic a fashion takes its toll on me in a big way. It causes me to become grumpy and out of balance. Vatas have to be careful cleansing and fasting if they have a lower body weight, which they tend to have. Kaphas tend to hold onto weight, so fasting is best for them.
In my experience, its best to cleanse the body with food rather than just liquids, this way the body is more able to maintain after the fasting period is over and not go into binge mode. The worst thing that you can do is make space in the body through fasting and then fill that space with junk food and toxins. You want to move slowly into a cleanse and slowly out of one, meaning adding foods back in. I would suggest doing a cleanse for a period of time that you deem long enough but not too long–a week is a good start.
Consider a more gradual, yet efficient approach. Cut out caffeine, alcohol, dairy, meat, and soy for a period of time to give your digestive organs a break. Eat organic fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, rice, and beans. During this period its also helpful to avoid processed foods, which are often depleted of nutrients. Try and clear your schedule so that you also have some time to relax, do yoga, and meditate.
Certain religious and spiritual practices fast for periods of time and it can be good for the body if done in moderation. If youre trying a water or juice fast, try a day at first or just part of one day. If willpower is a problem then consider a juice retreat where you can get out of your normal routine and away from habits. But again, dont get carried away.
Heres a really complete yoga cleanse that can do a lot of good and isnt so drastic that it pulls you out of balance.
Recent Comments