There's been a wave of articles, information, and advocates of simply "starving yourself" to achieve good health. Luckily, this is not a fad, fasting has been apart of history since the 5th century to relieve patients from illness and toxic waste. It has been proven to improve brain function, insulin sensitivity, weight loss, and regulate your metabolism. It is also, both therapeutically, ritualistic, and considered ethical for some religions, individuals or groups. However, when it's done properly, I see this practice as a way to also build discipline and improve your eating patterns.
How to Fast Properly:
1. Stay Hydrated - Drinking water throughout your fast is the important aspect of this If however, you're using ACV to supplement this fast for detoxification. Make sure you are mixing Himalayan salt and water with the ACV.
2. Movement - This is an aspect that usually gets disregarded when it comes to fasting. Simply because exercise is usually viewed as a strenuous exercise that can be on your system while abstaining from food. Though, forms of movement are a necessary key to the detoxification process. It is not recommended to run, do hot yoga, pilates, or any intense workouts. You can safely try low-impact forms of movement. Here are a few recommendations: Walking, yoga (room temperature), stretching, and floor exercises.
3. Choose your method - There are different forms of fasting, intermittent is usually done within 6-8 hour period and choosing to eat small to medium-sized meals in between. There are also 24-hour fasting, 16 hours, 8 hours, or just simply choosing 1-2 days per week to consistently fast. The longer you choose the fast, the better your results, however, there is no one way to practice. You can choose to do this consistently for a week or 1-2, whatever works safely for you.
4. Don't Binge Eat After Fasting Period- It is best to ease back into eating by consuming something small and nutritious like a smoothie, fruit, or bowl of oatmeal. After an hour or so, continue on with your normal diet to assure the longevity of the benefits.
5. Contact Your Physician - Before starting a fast, make sure you contact your primary physician to assure your body is in good health. Some health conditions may prevent you from safely fasting.