We all know it’s a good idea to drink plenty of water, but my husband took it a step further and did a water fast for 10 DAYS! Whether you choose to do a 7 day water fast, a 3 day fast, or somewhere in between, read about his experience, what you can drink on a water fast, and how to safely reintroduce food again.
A water fast is a set period of time when a person eats no food, and drinks only water. Most people water fast to help detoxify from processed foods, sugar, and caffeine in their diet, for increased mental clarity, and to give the digestive system a rest.
Note: This is OUR personal story about water fasting. We’re not doctors and have never claimed to be. In no way, shape, or form are we stating that water fasting will cure anything, including chronic diseases. You should always check with your doctor before embarking on an extended fast, especially if you’re taking any medication!
WHY DO A 10 DAY WATER FAST?
Here are two main reasons my husband chose water fasting (and one he didn’t):
- To detoxify. Water fasts are generally the quickest way to detoxify. Some even consider this the only “real” way to detox your body and bring it back in check.
- Water fasts are the most difficult type of fast. He figured if he could complete a 10 day water fast, all future fasts of juice or smoothies would be easy in comparison!
- Weight Loss. Although my husband doesn’t struggle with weight loss, many people choose to water fast to shed a few pounds. I don’t recommend water fasting for weight loss because it’s not a long-term solution. Here’s why:
- Once you start eating again, the weight will likely come back.
- AND since this reason for water fasting isn’t health-based, you’re more likely to re-introduce foods too fast and possibly cause tremendous discomfort (see the section below on reintroducing foods).
10 DAY FAST HEALTH BENEFITS
There are several benefits to increasing your daily water intake in general. But based on my research, here is a summary of the benefits of a medically supervised water fast:
Fat Burn: After your body has used all the excess calories, it begins burning fat. By default, when you burn fat, you lose weight.
Lower Blood Pressure: Lower sodium levels in the body might contribute to this effect of fasting on high blood pressure.
Detoxify: Fasting allows the body to rid itself of toxins, so a fast should be viewed as a jump start to permanent healthy choices. Introducing and MAINTAINING a proper diet filled with real and nutritious food after a 10 day fast is what will benefit you the most in the long run.
Digestive Function: Your digestive system will love you for fasting. It takes about three days into the fast for your system to completely shut down. Liquids in, liquid out, so there will be no bloating from digestive processes.
UNSURE ABOUT EVEN A 3 DAY FAST?
This is OUR personal story about water fasting. We’re not doctors and have never claimed to be. In no way, shape, or form are we stating that water fasting will cure anything. You should always work under medical supervision when fasting for an extended period.
I’ve summarized our findings on the benefits of water fasting here, but if you prefer to see the research for yourself, we recommend reading “Water Fasting for Wellness.”
For a doctor’s viewpoint on water fasting, check out “Fasting and Eating for Health.”
I personally prefer not to do even a 3 day fast, at least not a full-on water fast like my husband. Instead, I take more of a “regularly scheduled maintenance” approach.
To regularly detoxify my body from the occasional splurge, I incorporate detox smoothies and detox baths into my weekly routine. If you’re not sure about doing even a 3 day water fast, you could start there (or try one of the other options for detoxing at the end of this post!).
WATER QUALITY FOR 7 DAY WATER FAST (OR MORE!)
Because you’re only drinking water (and most city water is highly chlorinated due to potential contaminants), it’s important that your water is the best you can afford.
Water Filters:
- Berkey water filters are the cream of the crop, known for taking arsenic, uranium, aluminum, and fluoride out of ordinary tap water. While it’s on the pricier side, it’s definitely worth considering not just for a 3 day water fast (or more), but for improving the water in your home as a whole.
- The only downside is that Berkey water filters are really tall and can be awkward in the kitchen. We installed a reverse osmosis filtration system under our kitchen sink and we love it!
- You could also use a Brita water bottle with a filter or a refillable filtered pitcher if those are more within your price range.
WHAT ELSE CAN I DRINK FOR A 10 DAY WATER FAST?
Although there’s not a whole lot included in a 10 day water fast, you CAN add a bit of variety to your liquid intake with some of these beverage options:
- Add a slice of lemon to water.
- Tea
- Coffee
- Electrolytes (I like these effervescent tablets).
- If you’re not a big water drinker in the first place and you don’t think water tastes good, consider an infuser water bottle. You can add slices of fruit that will flavor the water, making it more palatable.
- There are infuser water pitchers too, for making bigger batches of flavored water. My favorite flavor combination is cucumber + mint + lemon – so good!
MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE WITH DAY 10 WATER FAST
Note: These are written directly from my husband about his experience with a 10 day water fast!
- Days 1-3. The first few days were rough, and my detoxifying symptoms (i.e. hunger, headaches, etc.) were the worst, probably because of caffeine withdrawal.
- Days 4-6. Much easier than the first three days… These days were relatively easy – at least compared to the first three! My appetite waned. I started losing weight, 1 – 1 ½ pounds per day, but there was no problem going to work, playing guitar at church, or performing any other daily physical functions.
- Day 7. I will never forget this day – ever. This was the most miserable day I have ever lived on planet earth. I came home from work feeling great, not hungry, thinking clearly… And then my wonderful wife pulled a freshly baked loaf of Rosemary Olive Oil Bread from the oven. I wanted that bread, but it wasn’t even possible at this point. Why? Once your digestive system shuts down around day 3, it takes a few days to bring it back up to speed after your water fast is finished (see below for more info).
- Day 8-10. These days were almost an exact replica of days 4-6. By the end of day 10 water fasting, my body weight had decreased by 15 pounds, and I was ready to eat again.
WOULD I DO THIS 10 DAY FAST AGAIN?
All in all, I enjoyed my 10 day fast. It was challenging, but the benefits (post-fast) were well worth it. All in all, I enjoyed my 10 day fast. It was challenging, but the benefits (post-fast) were well worth it.
- My digestion improved.
- My blood pressure was lowered.
- And my body was able to detox.
- My long-term plan is to fast at least once or twice a year from now on.
Note: My wife likes food too much to do a water fast, but she’s committed to doing a smoothie fast with me whenever I water fast. That might be an option for you if the idea of water fasting is a bit daunting!
WHAT HAPPENED ON HIS SECOND 5 DAY FAST…
His second fast was a 5 day fast, and he called it “quick and painless.” He did it shortly after we moved to Georgia, and we were living in a one-bedroom apartment. Cooking was hard and minimal, so he fasted during the week, and the kids and I just had sandwiches for dinner.
.. AND HIS THIRD 10 DAY WATER FAST…
His third water fast was for 10 days and was a bit trickier, and we were thankful that he was under the supervision and guidance of a friend who is also a Physician Assistant. It’s hard to pinpoint what made this third 10 day water fast so hard, and I, unfortunately, have no other details to offer, but it was a good reminder to not make any serious health changes without first consulting your doctor.
… AND HIS FOURTH WATER FAST…
His fourth water fast was also a 5 day fast and very similar to his second – quick and painless. He had switched to decaf coffee, which eliminated the caffeine withdrawals and made Day 2 MUCH easier. He started talking about food on Day 4, which we took as a signal that his body was on target to finish the fast on Day 5 as he had planned.
WHAT SHOULD I EAT AFTER A 7 DAY WATER FAST ENDS?
My husband ate very light, healthy, and nutritious real food. Once you are ready to begin eating food, it takes a few days to bring your digestive system back up to speed. You do this by very slowly introducing food to your digestive system – gradually building back up to solid food, in steps. For example:
Days 1-2. Drink fresh juices and clear broths. (Listen to your body. Drink them as often as you feel hungry.)
Days 2-3. Add in fresh fruit and/or pureed fruit like applesauce.
Days 3-4. Add in steamed and soft, easy-to-digest vegetables. Think broth-based smooth soups, like butternut squash soup (minus the spices), and veggies like well-cooked carrots. Try plain mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes.
Note: Save cruciferous veggies (like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage) for the end of your food reintroduction – once your digestive system is completely up and running. The same goes for foods like nuts, seeds, beans, and meat. These foods are harder to digest, and you want to go easy on your digestive system.
Days 4-5. Continue to increase your foods slowly, listening to your body, and eating according to your digestive comfort.
Note: The process of reintroducing food can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days before your digestive system is back up to fully operational. Eating any solid food while in a fasted state can lead to severe discomfort and even hospitalization!
7 DAY WATER FAST FAQS
What can I drink during a 7 day water fast?
Most people drink plain water during a 7 day water fast (or 10 day), but you might also consider herbal tea (such as ginger, peppermint, or chamomile), green tea, lemon water, or black coffee (regular or decaf).
The answer is that it’s really about what you’re comfortable with doing. My husband did not drink coffee because he was using the fast to help detox his body from caffeine and sugar. It’s best to ask your medical professional if you can still drink coffee while water fasting.
Is it beneficial to water fast for less than 10 days?
Yes. Some people might start with intermittent fasting, which is found in studies to be a healthy choice for some. Intermittent fasting might be one day a week, or alternate day fasting, or one day a month. Other people may speak to their healthcare professional and decide to initially try a 3 day fast, then move to a 7 day water fast.
My husband has done a few water fasts, from a 3 day fast to a 10 day fast. But when I fast, I choose to drink real food smoothies. Lots of approaches exist when it comes to water fasting. It really depends on what you’re comfortable with, and what you decide with your health care professional.
Regardless of how long you fast, it’s VERY important to know how long you’re going to fast BEFORE you start. This is more of a mental commitment to anything, but it’s also easy to keep going for “one more day” once you’re in a fasting state, which isn’t always a smart move. Have a known end date and always be under a doctor’s supervision.
How much weight can you lose during a 7 day water fast?
It’s true that you probably will lose some weight during a water fast simply because you’re not taking in any calories. However, I don’t think it’s something you should do. Your body is smart and when you cut back calories, your body adjusts.
A better way to control weight is by switching to eating real food. Focus on nutrient-dense food, instead of the latest fad, and your body will naturally have the nutrients it needs to be healthy!
OTHER WAYS TO DETOX
Water fasting is definitely on the more extreme side of detoxing your body. However, there are many other ways to detox on a regular basis to keep your body functions optimal.
- An Apple Cider Vinegar Drink is great for a daily boost to your digestive and immune system.
- A Detox Bath is an easy way to relax and allow your body to heal from the everyday toxins you encounter.
- Drinking a Detox Smoothie from time to time will boost your body systems and keep it running smoothly.
- This DIY Detox Face Mask with Charcoal and Clay can help to clear your skin and improve your complexion.
- Using a Detoxifying Salt Scrub is a wonderful way to clean your skin and exfoliate.
- Everyday Detox and No Excuses Detox are cookbooks each with 100 recipes for healthy eating. Eating a real food diet is an excellent way to keep your body free from toxins.
Several of those detox methods use Bentonite Clay. It’s so good for your body in many ways (more about that here). If you’re just starting out, try one of these smaller containers of Bentonite Clay. But if you’re like me and use it for all sorts of things around the house, buy it in bulk!
7 DAY WATER FAST
Whether you choose to do a 7 day water fast, a 10 day water fast like Mr. Crumbs, or even just a 3 day fast, be sure to do so with the supervision of a medical professional and listen to your body. Low blood sugar, muscle loss, dehydration, and loss of minerals can be a concern. However, in our experience, a short-term 7-day water fast is very beneficial!
Shivani
Hello. I constantly try to embark on longer water fasts but my will power is so lacking. My mind says lets go eat and i go running to food and my water fasting attempt becomes a failure. How are some of the ways that other fasters avoid temptation to eat? Advice would be much appreciated. Please note that the absolute longest i have fasted is 24 hours exactly.
Christine
Just completed a 12-day fast (but I drank water with organic lemon or lime juice and stevia and organic hot tea with stevia.)
First of all, the fast was probably one of the easiest (if there is an easy fast) I’ve done. My mind was made up, and I just kept focused. During the fast, I read lots of fasting books, watch lots of fasting videos, to keep me motivated.
Once again, I’ve done water only fasts (two 7 day fasts), the water only fasts are very difficult and if you plan on working and carrying on, you may want to consider a bit of a compromise. Also if you get a juice fast under you belt, you can plan on a water fast in the future. The idea is to be successful and that may take a little compromise at first.
Benefits of my fast included: Healing of my broken neck (I was in a car accident and broke C1 and compromised C2, 3 1/2 hours of surgery and lots of recovery a year later I was having neck pain at night but it’s now gone after the fast.)
Arthritis cleared up.
Skin cleared up.
18 pounds lighter.
Lots of new energy.
Able to workout now.
Race walking, sprinting and weight training.
More creativity (writing children’s books and poems)
The list goes on…
Going into the fast I felt strong and stayed strong for 12 days.
Remember baby steps in fasting so you get experience and success.
dhrumit
finished day 3 of my fasting .. feeling great .. my only concerned is i havent had toxic removed from inside …
Nadyha
I just wanted to say that this article was amazing for me. In 2008 my husband and I seperated after almost 15yrs. I was 17 when we got together and I found myself wondering who I was confused and unable to focus I too decided to fast. I agree the first 3 days were the hardest but then it became a wonderful experience. I fasted for 4 weeks. I lost an incredible amount of weight, at that mark I did start to have problems with my hair thinning I believe because I couldn’t sustain anymore weight loss so I began to eat again. I received a lot of negative feedback about the fast but shared with friends and family to plz not ask me to eat during that time. I had more energy than ever in my lite, all of my medical problems went away. I was unable to have a child after trying with my ex for almost 10 yrs., 6 mos after seperation I was preparing to become a mommy. There are so many benefits to fasting, no one could convince me otherwise! I continue to fast during the month, now it has become a part of my life. Thank you for sharing your story.
dhrumit
that was amazing story , i am going to water fast from tomorrow , i want to know is there something like overdose of water or i can drink as much water i want ?
Mr. Crumbs
Hi dhrumit. For those types of questions, you would need to consult with a doctor as I can’t give medical advice.
I can tell you from my experience that I sipped on water throughout the day, but never in large amounts. I was always fearful of flushing out all my electrolytes. Also, keep in mind that I had medical supervision and reported stats to two family members several times a day.
Adrienne Chavers
I’ve been attempting to fast for the last couple of weeks. I just purchased Dr. Furhman’s book “Fasting and Eating for Health” and with reading that and your personal story – it just clicked for me. On my 45th birthday (10 years ago) I did a 40 day juice fast. I lost 40 pounds but I’ve gained it all back plus a few pounds. I just turned 55 and I’m ready to do a water fast; not 40 days but at least 10 – 20 days. Thank you for sharing; it was (is) most helpful. I am a certified raw food chef and lifestyle coach (80% raw) but have fallen off the wagon. This will certainly jump start me back to healthier eating. God Bless You!
Jackie
Very informative …I am starting a 10 day water only fast tomorrow 12/13 . I will stop by and give a little inside on how it went. If I handle this well then I will try for 21 days but I will take it one day at a time. Great site
Christine
My fast has been wonderful. Don’t get me wrong it’s not easy, but the rewards are amazing! I’m finally getting my beautiful skinny self back, acne on my neck has cleared, arthritis symptoms are clearing out of my body, I feel them move. I’m on my 9th day and will go three more days so I can break the fast on the weekend. Any tips about breaking the fast would be much appreciated. Oh and did I mention that my skin is beautiful. I’m 53 and no one believes it.
Jackie
Good job Christine, I started right after I read this page and your blog…I have read up some on fasting and they all say to start off with fresh fruit juice then add your vegetables I am on day 3 I am going for 10 then go on from there I really want to try for 21 days but I will listen to my body on day 10 and move from there. I know it will be extremely hard especially starting in December.
Shenda
Hi, I am new to this site and reading all the results of the water fast is encouraging. I am starting water fast due to HBP I’m on two meds and they don’t seem to be lowering it at all. So I’m not new to fasting but water fasting I’ve never done, and I have to do something to lower it and get it under control of course Doctors only know to give more meds which I don’t believe in because of all the side effects and that’s all most of them been trained for. I will take my meds while on the water fast unless it drops and will cut it down to one of them during the duration of the fast. I have a Doctors appt in two days and see what she says.
Briteleaf
Completed a 9 day water fast about 6 weeks ago. Hard part was hunger the first few days and the no-coffee headache I had for a couple of days. ALL my parents and grandparents died of high blood pressure related heart attacks and strokes. My blood pressure went from 156/116 to normal and has STAYED NORMAL. It was 107/71 this morning.
Tiffany
Wonderful news Briteleaf! Congrats on completing the fast! 🙂
Cherie
I have been studying water fasts for awhile, and have been nervous to start it. I have 6 kids and homeschool…so I need to be able to remain on my feet all day. In my study, some sites recommend bottled water (spring or purified/distilled). My questions for you are, did you drink special water, or just tap water? And how much did you drink each day? I would like to do a 10 day fast to start, but if I am doing well, I want to continue it for a full month. Thank you so much for posting your experience. It gives me courage to go forward with my fast.
Christine
Wow Cherie! A ten day fast at first? My suggestion is that you don’t do just distilled water, it’s super hard on water alone. Add a little lemon and stevia and you’ll be fine. Also have some tea. Don’t over do it at first. Perhaps just fasting a day a week and then moving into a 3-day fast, then 5-day, then 10-day. I know when I started fasting it was really quite a triumph to do one day. If you set small goals and word your way up, you’ll feel great. However, if you set a big goal and aren’t able to accomplish it, you may get discouraged.
Tiffany
He drank tap water filtered through a Brita pitcher. He probably drank 4-6 glasses a day? More at first, less as time went on, but he only drank when he felt like he needed to, if that makes sense? There wasn’t a goal to hit. Good luck with your fast Cherie! Keep us updated on your progress!
Cherie
I just finished the first 24 hours. I have a slight headache, and have been running way often to the bathroom. Hopefully tomorrow goes smoothly. I haven’t felt hungry, but it was hard to smell dinner. I locked myself in my room until everyone was done. Im using you as a support system. I figure I will be more likely to keep it up if I report to someone. 🙂
Christine
Hi,
I am a faster. I started fasting when I was 30 years old (I am now 53 and still fasting) I did this because I felt the Lord wanted me to fast (I’m Catholic so we fast on Wednesdays and Fridays). I have reaped tremendous health benefits. I was getting severe seasonal allergies when I started fasting. So I did a day of fasting and got relief! Then I did a 3 day fast and cut out wheat from my diet. I have never had a problem with allergies since this time (20 years ago).
Currently I am embarking on a 10 day fast to lose weight and cleanse. I am on day two and have little side effects and feel quite strong. I’m a kindergarten teacher, so I have to be alert and strong. As long as I feel strong I will continue this fast until next Tuesday! I’m on the D’Adamo diet right now and have a protocol to follow, however, I am just doing lemon + water + stevia during the day and at night I have chamomile tea + stevia. I feel fine!
Stay tuned
marty
I have recently done a 24 hour fast. It turned my tongue white and gross. I was wondering how long it will be there after i break the fast? Its been three days and still is on there.
Giovanni
24 hours or 24 days? Wasn’t your tongue like that before and you only noticed because you were fast? 24-hour fast is hardly something to worry, unless you are already very sick.
Susan
In 2007 I went on a 40 day liquid fast which included a protein shake every day or two. The other liquids included some decaf coffee – about twice a week, and as much juice or tea or water as I wanted, and vegetable “drinks” that I made myself from fresh veggies and water. Some would argue that this wasn’t a “real” fast, but it was what I felt led to do. I lost about 35 pounds, but I wasn’t doing it for that reason – for me the spiritual benefits were what was amazing. During this fast, my prayer life and my mental clarity went through the ceiling. I did not exercise. Among the things that resulted were a major financial breakthrough, and my daughter split for good from her toxic, abusive boyfriend. The worst day was day three – after that, I wasn’t even hungry, and along about day 18 it just got better and better every day. I was able to continue to prepare meals for my family after my hunger went away without being tempted to eat, and even attended a 50th anniversary party and several other major family functions where food was the main event, and had no problem. I was actually very sorry when it was over. I might have continued, but my husband was getting really impatient for me to start eating again. It’s probably just as well!
Now, the key is that I felt led by God to do this. I am confident that there is NO WAY I could have done it otherwise. I have tried fasts since then that did not work at all on any level. I think the longest I lasted on any of those was about 10 days, but they did not have any of the same benefits, either physically or spiritually. It is definitely not a formula, and not something you undertake because it seems like an interesting idea!
I also wish I could say that I maintained all those benefits. I did maintain my weight for a couple of years, but it was just too hard to go against the flow at home. It is important that your family supports you fully, because otherwise they will sabotage you.
Gary Wolford
Tiffany….A sincerest Thank You, for a fresh start…….we’re never to old.
Tiffany
Gary, your words are so sweet, and so encouraging to to the rest of us who aren’t perfect either. Thank you for taking the time to introduce yourself and sharing your store. Best of luck Gary – we look forward to hearing the update. 🙂 True blessings to you Gary.
Gary Wolford
Well, Tiffany,………so much for my 10 day water fast, I lasted 2 full days. However, I will continue to endeavour. I’m going to try having one nutritious meal daily.
Thank you ever so much, for your reply back to my original post. I can well imagine how busy you must be!
“GOD” Bless,
Gary
Gary Wolford
Dear Tiffany:
Please allow me to introduce myself. I’m a retired Vietnam Vet, white male, 66 years in age, “Blessed” with a great wife, of 42 years, 3 children and 6 grand children, and, over the years I’ve become very complacent, respective to my own personal health.
In my mid twenties, and, right into my mid thirties, I water fasted religiously,……36 hrs./week and a 5 day water fast every 3 months and once did a 15 day fast. That, however, was close to 35 years ago. In regards to my physical, and spiritual health, those years were the most optimal, apex, years of my entire life, and if I can get anywhere close to that feeling again, I’ll have been truly blessed.
Thank “GOD”, I presently enjoy good health, but, I am at risk, with high cholesterol and high blood pressure . My exercise is extremely limited to getting in and out of the car. I’m 6 feet tall and as of this morning, I weighed in at 194.6 pounds.
Anyway, as a direct result of your inspirational website, Tiffany, I commenced a 10 day fast, as of yesterday, Tuesday, 8:00 pm. I now feel that I can maintain the perseverance and determination to see it to its end.
In closing, Tiffany, I want to offer up my sincerest Thanks. Your website was most refreshing, unique, informative, and, for me awe inspiring. A true “GOD” send.
Again, my sincerest, heartfelt “Thanks”…..Bravo!, and keep up your great work.
Anyway wish me luck……I’ll be in touch.
Regards, have a great day,
Gary Wolford
Darlyn Paul
My foray into fasting for has been interesting. Although when I was younger, I had indulged in 24-hours no water, no food fast yearly. I hadn’t kept it up
So I decided at this time to try a 3-days water fast, but on getting into this blog and reading about very successful water fasts especially their health benefits encouraged me to for longer for its health benefits. I was going to try for 10days, but will now stop at day 7, not because I could not continue, but because my husband will be traveling and I cannot take care of the children alone in such a weakened state.
I undertook the fast while still being responsible for cooking the family meals, getting youngsters ready for school, doing the shopping, etc. By day 5, I was so weak and sluggish that I wondered if I could keep it up.
My husband then undertook the responsibility of getting the kids to and from school depending on work schedule and eating pizza for dinner. LOL.
It has been a journey. The most difficult part, after day 1 to 3 was dealing with the filmy coating on my tongue. I didn’t like that at all. It actually prevented me from drinking lots of water. Whereas typically I drank 2 litres of water daily. I was struggling to get 1 liter in.
Day 4 onwards was smooth sailing although I am extremely weak now. I now have one more day and I have to thank this blog for helping me realise this was possible and some of its health benefits.
Darlyn Paul
Breaking my fast gently. I was not sure how to go about it, I decided to go real easy and listen to my body: So I thought, 3 days of the addition of 2 glasses of pure-pressed fruits to the water.
First day – 2 glasses of pure-pressed apple juice. I found it saccharin sweet. I could only do a half glass and my stomach could really not handle anymore. 4-hours later, I did better with the second glass, but still didn’t like the taste. My energy-level though increased tremendously. I could function normally, although not anywhere at top-level. It was passable. The 2nd day, I went for several fruits, instead of just apple and it was more tolerable, although I still found it too sweet. I also added multi-vitamins in liquid form.
I am going into the 3rd and final day of this, then I will be adding light soups for 3 days, then soft vegis. My energy level is increasingly by the day definitely. I can feel the difference.
The spiritual element has been most beautiful as well. Along with reading. (I had to use books by reading because after a while it was just too difficult to keep reading prints). I spent a lot of time meditating as well.
Overall, challenging as this seems, it is a journey,I am glad I am taking.
Tiffany
Wonderful to hear your fast is going well Darlyn! You should be on day 6 or so – how’s it going?
kundayi
inspired will start today wish me luck
Tiffany
good luck!
Angela Palacios
Thank you for this post! Super informative. I’m currently on day 7 of 10 and the taste in my mouth is making me nasues. I can not make it go away. Brushing, flossing, rinsing etc. Anyone else have this issue?
Asma yoonas
Hi, I want to do water diet, I have done 24 hr water diet few year back, I have a question can I take my reqular vitamin.
Jamie
I’m a 14 year old boy and go to high school. I’m planning on starting my water fast on Sunday, to get the worst over away from school. But I’m not sure if it’s safe. My reasons are simple, my taste buds are in shutdown. All I eat is Pasta, Pizza and fish and chips. I don’t eat at school to avoid getting food stuck in my braces. I would like to try more foods with pleasure, but it’s sickening. I have an extremely high metabolism and I went through an extreme addiction to chocolate, but managed to cut it out. I am fearing that my body is still clogged from it. Also I’m eating at least a bar a week, which may not sound to bad, but it will get worse. I’ve been having constant headaches, and have incredible back pain. My body is a mess. My acne got so bad we even went to my GP and he prescribed some cream that is helping to clear it up. I’m trying to drink more water in general, but it’s never at the top of my mind. I also have constant tiredness and lack of energy. I am thinking 7 days, because we don’t have any exams, and finishing on a sunday would be great. I’m worried about the temptation too. Can I have some advice please?
Diana
I completed my first 10 day water fast. My main objective was to reduce my blood pressure. I was diagnosed with high blood pressure in my mid-40’s. I was an active runner and “ate healthy”. My blood pressure was 180/118!!!
I was immediately placed on meds. I did not want to be dependent on meds for my life, so began search alternatives to treat root cause of my blood pressure, not just symptoms. Of course, there are others in my family with high blood pressure but did not buy into doctors claim that was all genetic. I changed my diet to a no salt, no oil vegan diet. I had never even consider a vegan diet before this. My blood pressure did drop (without meds) to 135/90 range. My blood pressure was better with just the diet change than on meds! Despite continuing on my vegan diet, my blood pressure was not making any other significant improvements beyond this. It seems that I reached a plateau. Perhaps from the build-up of so many years of animal products and “junk” in me.
I read an article that included clinical trials with statistically significant results that used water fasting for the treatment of high blood pressure. One of the authors, Dr. Goldhammer had a clinic, True North in Santa Rosa, CA. I decided to pursue a medically supervised water fast and very thankful that I did. Since I already was a vegan diet (with no processed foods, oil, etc.) I did not need to do a special 2-3 day prep prior to the water fast. My 10-day water fast started on distilled water only. After Day 1, I did not even feel hungry. My days were quite uneventful.
I understood that rest was just as important as the actual water fast. I did not work during the 10 days, I did not even check emails. I watched lots of informational videos, attending lectures, journal-ed, read, took naps, socialized with others in various phases of fasting, went to cooking classes (yes, this do not bother me), light yoga (no upside moves), etc. I was fine until Day 5. I was simply just walking to go back to my room and suddenly felt light-headed and flushed. A doctor and staff assisted me to my room, my pulse had dropped drastically. Once, I was layed down with knees up and shortly started feeling better. However, I was also feeling quite nauseated with dry-heaving symptoms. I was given sparkling water (instead of distilled) and it was the most amazing tasting water I have ever had. I spent the remainder of my fast mostly on bed rest. I could not sit or stand without feeling nauseated. So, 5 days of bed rest was making me a bit stir crazy.
Initially, I had thought I was going to do do a 20 day water fast. On Day 10, I realized that I was “done” (more out of feeling “bored” from just laying in bed, and the constant nausea if did anything). By Day 10, my blood pressure had reached 90/60!!! Incredible! There is no medication that I know of that could have even come close to this blood pressure drop.
I broke my water fast on Day 11. The amount of energy that I had was absolutely amazing. I felt that I could have run a marathon! I felt like I could not expend all the energy I had. My head was clear. I felt completely at peace with myself and life. I spent 5 days re-feeding and each day I had even more energy. For a few days, I went walking, running, bike riding for miles and miles each day. It has been a year since the fast.
The biggest challenge for me after the fast when I got back to “real world” was integrating a daily exercise routine. My doctor did tell me that I needed to do 30 mins of cardio to help boost my metabolism back up after the fast. I was not feeling 100% and did not do this. I not only gained back the 10 pounds I lost during the fast but also another 7 lbs. )-: I realize this is my own doing by not incorporating the daily cardio post-fast. My blood pressure has remained in the 115/75 range (some days better than others). I have started to reignite a daily exercise routine. My goal is to get back to the weight I was before the last fast before embarking on another. However, I do hope to incorporate another 10 day water fast late this year/early next year.