{"id":56530,"date":"2023-10-31T21:18:43","date_gmt":"2023-10-31T21:18:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=56530"},"modified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","slug":"how-to-prepare-for-a-fast","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare For a Fast: 9 Essential Tips for Success"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#How_Do_I_Prepare_for_a_Fast_the_Day_Before\" >How Do I Prepare for a Fast the Day Before?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Mind_over_matter\" >Mind over matter<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Ease_into_it\" >Ease into it<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Stock_up_your_water\" >Stock up your water<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Avoid_exercise\" >Avoid exercise<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Find_distractions\" >Find distractions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Eat_more_protein_and_fiber\" >Eat more protein and fiber<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Choose_more_whole_foods_over_refined_carbs_or_unhealthy_snacks\" >Choose more whole foods over refined carbs or unhealthy snacks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#If_youre_taking_medication_consult_your_doctor_before_fasting\" >If you\u2019re taking medication, consult your doctor before fasting<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Try_supplements\" >Try supplements<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#How_Do_I_Prepare_for_a_Fast_for_3_Days\" >How Do I Prepare for a Fast for 3 Days?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Eat_well_before_the_fast\" >Eat well before the fast\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Rest_as_much_as_possible\" >Rest as much as possible\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Do_not_fast_if_you_are_on_medication_or_if_you_are_underweight\" >Do not fast if you are on medication or if you are underweight<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Seek_medical_attention\" >Seek medical attention\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#If_possible_have_medical_supervision_as_you_undergo_your_fast\" >If possible, have medical supervision as you undergo your fast<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Age_limits\" >Age limits\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Pregnant_and_breastfeeding_women\" >Pregnant and breastfeeding women<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#What_Should_You_Avoid_Before_a_Fast\" >What Should You Avoid Before a Fast?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#How_Should_a_Beginner_Start_Fasting\" >How Should a Beginner Start Fasting?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#What_Should_I_Include_in_My_Intermittent_Fasting_7-Day_Meal_Plan\" >What Should I Include in My Intermittent Fasting 7-Day Meal Plan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#What_Age_Should_You_Start_Fasting\" >What Age Should You Start Fasting?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#Is_the_first_day_of_fasting_the_hardest\" >Is the first day of fasting the hardest?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#How_much_weight_can_you_lose_on_a_72-hour_fast\" >How much weight can you lose on a 72-hour fast?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#How_long_should_I_fast_to_cleanse_my_body\" >How long should I fast to cleanse my body?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#What_electrolytes_do_I_need_when_fasting\" >What electrolytes do I need when fasting?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#The_Bottom_Line\" >The Bottom Line<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fasting is a practice that is part and parcel of the human experience. Whether you\u2019re doing it for religious, spiritual, or health reasons, there is evidence of people having fasted throughout history.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=&quot;&quot;https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast&quot;&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;&lt;video autoplay=&quot;autoplay&quot; loop=&quot;loop&quot; muted=&quot;muted&quot; playsinline=&quot;playsinline&quot; width=&quot;777&quot;&gt;&lt;source src=&quot;&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4.mp4&quot;&quot; type=&quot;video\/mp4&quot; \/&gt;&lt;\/video&gt;&lt;\/a&gt;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:256,&quot;11&quot;:3}\" data-sheets-formula=\"=replace(R[-12]C[0],SEARCH(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;,R[-12]C[0]),LEN(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;),R8C[0])\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Today, people fast for many reasons. In the world of health and fitness, fasting is often associated with weight loss. Intermittent fasting in particular has been suggested to have both weight loss and general health benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019d like to start fasting but do not know where to start, then you\u2019ve come to the right place. Read on to learn how to prepare for a fast so you can complete it safely and reap all the benefits that are associated with this centuries-old practice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Do_I_Prepare_for_a_Fast_the_Day_Before\"><\/span><b>How Do I Prepare for a Fast the Day Before?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to fasting, it is ideally best to start planning more than a day before. While fasting can look as easy as \u201cstop eating at time \u2018a\u2019 and start eating at time \u2018b\u2019\u201d, it is actually more complicated.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In order to be successful at your fast to lose weight or for spiritual\/religious reasons, it is best to start preparing at least 3 days or even a week before. Here are some tips on how to prepare for a fast:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mind_over_matter\"><\/span><b>Mind over matter<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fasting is more mental than you might realize. An important tip to remember for fasting for beginners is that you will sometimes be hungry. There is no way around this. Your body is used to getting fed at certain times and therefore, fasting will lead to hunger pangs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preparing your mind for this means you will be able to hold on and avoid breaking your fast. You should keep reminding yourself why you chose to fast. Write down these reasons where you can see them or set reminders at normal meal times to help you remember why you are doing it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition please remember to be kind to yourself and know your limits. Not everyone who starts a fast can do it for 24 hours straight, let alone for 3 days. Start small and if you have to break your fast earlier than someone else because your body can\u2019t handle it, do it and don\u2019t beat yourself up over it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-30039 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/11.png\" alt=\"how to prepare for a fast\" \/>\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ease_into_it\"><\/span><b>Ease into it<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to preparing your mind, you must also prepare your body &#8211; this is why it\u2019s best to start prepping for a fast a couple of days or even a week in advance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gradually start cutting back on how much food and drink you consume. This will enable the body to slowly get used to fasting and that way, it will not go into shock on the day you officially start your fast.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A good way of doing this is by slowly cutting out your usual snacks and only eating the three official meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. After a while, you can go down to just two meals a day and ultimately, just one meal a day. This process actually works great for anyone who is looking for tips for fasting for 24 hours.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reducing how much you eat over time trains the mind and body on when to expect extra food\/fuel while also helping the body gradually learn how to adjust energy expenditure and levels throughout the day before the next meal arrives.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stock_up_your_water\"><\/span><b>Stock up your water<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water is one of the only things that is allowed during the fasting hours of an <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/intermittent-fasting-meal-plan-example\/\">intermittent fasting meal plan<\/a>. Not only will it prevent dehydration, it will also help keep your energy levels up throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A lack of food also causes headaches, mood changes &#8211; irritability &#8211; and cramps, all of which can be lessened by <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/the-importance-of-drinking-water-reasons-and-tips\/\">drinking water<\/a> throughout the day\/during fasting hours.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caffeinated drinks such as black coffee and green tea are also great options to have at hand while intermittent fasting. Just make sure they are unsweetened as sugar, honey, maple syrup, etc. will break your fast, and know how much caffeine you can tolerate and what is safe for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>If you tend to let yourself off the hook, raise the white flag when things get tougher than you expected, send yourself on an unconscious binge-eating trip \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\">BetterMe app is here to help you <\/a> leave all of these sabotaging habits in the past!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Avoid_exercise\"><\/span><b>Avoid exercise<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We\u2019re not saying that you should avoid exercise altogether, but you should avoid exercising during fasting hours. Fasted exercise or fasted cardio is one of the things that suddenly became popular with intermittent fasting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Those who advocated for it claimed that it led to more calorie burning and more weight loss in the long term. However, research on this matter is not in agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One study that was published in the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scandinavian Journal of Medicine &amp; Science in Sports<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> found that fasted cardio causes higher fat oxidation than non-fasted cardio, but eating before exercise improves performance and endurance (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/abs\/10.1111\/sms.13054\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In an older study published in the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, researchers found the statement about fasted cardio leading to more weight loss to be untrue. The study involved 20 female volunteers who were divided into two groups.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One group was instructed to do an hour of fasted steady-state cardio, and the other did an hour of non-fasted steady-state cardio. All women worked out\u00a0 3 days per week for 4 weeks and ate a specified calorie deficit diet. At the end of the study, the researchers found no difference in weight loss or body composition between the two groups (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4242477\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From these findings, it can be seen that there are likely only insignificant benefits to working out or increasing physical activity when fasting.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, fasted cardio may actually be dangerous. According to <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthline, <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">some exercise while intermittent fasting can lead to<a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/intermittent-fasting-side-effects\/\"> side effects<\/a> such as lightheadedness, dizziness, shaking, or even passing out &#8211; all of which are due to dehydration or low blood sugar.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you want to start a fasting diet and still work out, we suggest working out immediately before you have to break the fast, or better yet, 30 minutes after breaking your fast with a snack or 1 hour after with a full meal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Find_distractions\"><\/span><b>Find distractions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is no way to avoid thinking about food, particularly during the first few days of your fasting meal plan. One of the best things to add to your \u2018what to do before intermittent fasting\u2019 plan is to find healthy distractions to keep you from obsessing over how many hours, minutes, or seconds you have before you can eat.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some healthy distractions include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Catch up on some work<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meditate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pray &#8211; if your fasting is for religious reasons, turning to a higher power could help you hold on for longer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watch a movie or binge that series you have been putting off<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get out of the house &#8211; that\u2019s where all the tempting food is<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Go for a walk, but keep the pace slow to avoid using up too much energy<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find a good book, sit in a quiet corner, and read<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eat_more_protein_and_fiber\"><\/span><b>Eat more protein and fiber<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both protein and fiber from whole foods help keep you feeling full for longer, which is particularly important for weight loss and for fasts (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0002916523236643\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6352252\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Increased satiety will not only help regulate your appetite, it will also help keep you at a calorie deficit, two factors that help you lose weight.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-30039 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/9_1.png\" alt=\"how to prepare for a fast\" \/>\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choose_more_whole_foods_over_refined_carbs_or_unhealthy_snacks\"><\/span><b>Choose more whole foods over refined carbs or unhealthy snacks<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not only will eating healthier whole foods help improve your health, these foods also contain more nutrients. Fasting for long periods means your body is getting less nutrients than it normally would.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best thing to do when you break your fast is to make sure you eat foods with plenty of nutrients to replenish your body\u2019s stores and increase your energy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/refined-carbs\/\">Refined carbs<\/a> and other highly processed snacks\/foods may curb a craving, but they offer little else to the body. These empty calories and sugars will get used up very quickly by the body, making you feel hungry again sooner. This could take you out of a calorie deficit and ruin your weight\/fat loss goals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"If_youre_taking_medication_consult_your_doctor_before_fasting\"><\/span><b>If you\u2019re taking medication, consult your doctor before fasting<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some medications cannot be stopped in the name of not wanting to break a fast and certain medications need to be taken at specific times, often with food. Speak to your doctor to avoid any mishaps that could result from missing a dose or by not eating food with your medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Try_supplements\"><\/span><b>Try supplements<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you don\u2019t fast regularly or for extended periods of time, you may not really need supplements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, if you do, you may consider looking into this. Fasting often and for long periods means that you do not eat as often or get enough calories as normal and this could lead to nutritional deficiencies (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nutritionj.biomedcentral.com\/articles\/10.1186\/s12937-022-00759-z\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8619925\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To be on the safe side, speak to your doctor and get some blood tests done to investigate if you have a deficiency or are at risk of one.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also, if you don\u2019t want to turn to supplements, you can increase your intake of whole foods that are rich in any nutrients you may be missing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><strong>Read more: <\/strong><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/fasting-for-24-hours-once-a-week\/\"><i>Is Fasting for 24 Hours Once a Week Healthy?<\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Do_I_Prepare_for_a_Fast_for_3_Days\"><\/span><b>How Do I Prepare for a Fast for 3 Days?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have never fasted before,<a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/fasting-for-3-days\/\"> fasting for 3 days<\/a> should not be something you initially aim for. You will be better off trying an intermittent fasting for beginners plan to work yourself up to a 72-hour\/3-day fast.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019ve done 24-hour (or longer) fasts before, then you may be able to last all 72 hours. Some things you should do to ensure you fast safely for 3 days include:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eat_well_before_the_fast\"><\/span><b>Eat well before the fast\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This meal will obviously not last in the body for 3 days, but it will help the first few hours go by easily<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rest_as_much_as_possible\"><\/span><b>Rest as much as possible\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not work out and if you can, don\u2019t go to work either. It is best to schedule a 72-hour fast for a weekend or a holiday leading up to a weekend<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_not_fast_if_you_are_on_medication_or_if_you_are_underweight\"><\/span><b>Do not fast if you are on medication or if you are underweight<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Seek_medical_attention\"><\/span><b>Seek medical attention\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fasts that last beyond the 24-hour mark are not recommended and often raise health concerns. Be sure to speak to a doctor before starting a 3-day fast (aka water fast)<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"If_possible_have_medical_supervision_as_you_undergo_your_fast\"><\/span><b>If possible, have medical supervision as you undergo your fast<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Age_limits\"><\/span><b>Age limits\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long fasting is not recommended for anyone under the age of 18 or over the age of 65<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pregnant_and_breastfeeding_women\"><\/span><b>Pregnant and breastfeeding women<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Should not fast, and those with any medical conditions should speak with their healthcare provider first<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-30039 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/4.png\" alt=\"how to prepare for a fast\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\">\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_You_Avoid_Before_a_Fast\"><\/span><b>What Should You Avoid Before a Fast?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are fasting for religious reasons, your religious texts should provide you with proper guidelines on what you should avoid before starting a fast.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are fasting for a blood test, you will most likely be requested not to smoke, eat, or drink anything &#8211; except water &#8211; before the test (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/common-health-questions\/operations-tests-and-procedures\/can-i-eat-and-drink-before-having-a-blood-test\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are doing a short fast for health or weight loss reasons:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid jumping straight into the fast &#8211; ease into it for a better chance of success<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid eating ultra-processed foods right before you fast &#8211; they are empty carbs that will make you feel hungrier faster<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid binging &#8211; eating too much will not keep you fuller for longer and you will most likely get sick instead<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>BetterMe app is a foolproof way to go from zero to a weight loss hero in a safe and sustainable way! What are you waiting for? <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\">Start transforming your body now! <\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Should_a_Beginner_Start_Fasting\"><\/span><b>How Should a Beginner Start Fasting?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choose your preferred fasting method &#8211; There are many fasting regimens in the intermittent fasting world. The most popular option is 16\/8, which involves a 16-hour fasting window and an 8-hour feeding window. Other beginner-friendly options include 12\/12 and 14\/10.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stock up on water, unsweetened coffee, black tea, and green tea. These are the three things that will tide you over during the fasting window.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do a grocery shop and clear out the fridge\/pantry of any overly tempting foods.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do meal prep. No one wants to start cooking after hours of fasting and feeling hungry. Do a meal prep and divide up your meals into ready-to-eat portions that can be quickly heated up when it\u2019s time to eat.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plan your workouts around your feeding windows. Work out either right before you need to break your fast, ensuring that you can fuel up as soon as possible, or soon after your first meal to avoid working out in a fasted state.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_I_Include_in_My_Intermittent_Fasting_7-Day_Meal_Plan\"><\/span><b>What Should I Include in My <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/16-8-intermittent-fasting-7-day-meal-plan\/\">Intermittent Fasting 7-Day Meal Plan<\/a>?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you are fueling your body less than you normally would, your meal plan for this period should be as healthy and nutritious as possible. Every good intermittent fasting meal plan should include the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foods that are rich in protein, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An assortment of vegetables &#8211; always remember to eat a rainbow. The more colors on your plate of vegetables, the better. Shop for both starchy and non-starchy vegetables, in addition to leafy greens.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Legumes and lentils for a plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates option.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whole grains &#8211; they are rich in fiber, which helps keep your calorie intake down and helps you feel full for longer during the fasting window.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Age_Should_You_Start_Fasting\"><\/span><b>What Age Should You Start Fasting?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0It is recommended that people start fasting no earlier than the age of 18. Different religions may have different rules for this.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><strong>Read more: <\/strong><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/intermittent-fasting-cortisol\/\"><i>Intermittent Fasting Cortisol: Should You Fast?<\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><b>FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_the_first_day_of_fasting_the_hardest\"><\/span><b>Is the first day of fasting the hardest?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That depends. For some, the first day is the hardest, while others say that the second and third days are the hardest.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_weight_can_you_lose_on_a_72-hour_fast\"><\/span><b>How much weight can you lose on a 72-hour fast?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any weight that is lost on a 72-hour fast is negligible. This is because during such fasts, you only tend to lose water weight, rather than body fat. To actually lose body fat, you must exercise, eat a healthy diet, and perhaps try intermittent fasting for several weeks or months before you see any actual results.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_should_I_fast_to_cleanse_my_body\"><\/span><b>How long should I fast to cleanse my body?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unless it&#8217;s for religious or spiritual reasons, normal fasting will not cleanse the body or get rid of toxins. Your body already has a detoxification system in the form of the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and digestive system that works day and night to detoxify itself (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vetmed.tamu.edu\/peer\/detoxification\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_electrolytes_do_I_need_when_fasting\"><\/span><b>What electrolytes do I need when fasting?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Electrolytes are essential for basic life functioning as they help with the control of your fluid balance, blood pressure regulation, muscle contraction &#8211; including heart muscles, and maintenance of the correct acidity in your blood.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Significant electrolytes that the body needs include sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, calcium, phosphate, and bicarbonates &#8211; all of which can be found in food and drinks (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK541123\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When fasting, you tend to lose the electrolytes in the body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amjmed.com\/article\/0002-9343(71)90152-5\/fulltext\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Water &#8211; even tap water &#8211; can help you replenish the electrolyte levels in the body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0889157513000549\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). However, once your fast is broken, you should try to eat foods containing the aforementioned minerals to ensure that even when your electrolyte levels go down when fasting, they aren\u2019t at dangerous levels.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><b>The Bottom Line<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The process of preparing for a fast is more detailed and complicated than many people think. To successfully go through this process without breaking halfway, both your mind and body must be ready long before the first day of the fast.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow the steps above and you will have a much easier time than if you simply jump into it with little to no preparation. Be sure to speak to a doctor before you change your eating habits.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=&quot;&quot;https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast&quot;&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;&lt;video autoplay=&quot;autoplay&quot; loop=&quot;loop&quot; muted=&quot;muted&quot; playsinline=&quot;playsinline&quot; width=&quot;777&quot;&gt;&lt;source src=&quot;&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-12.mp4&quot;&quot; type=&quot;video\/mp4&quot; \/&gt;&lt;\/video&gt;&lt;\/a&gt;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:256,&quot;11&quot;:3}\" data-sheets-formula=\"=replace(R[-12]C[0],SEARCH(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;,R[-12]C[0]),LEN(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;),R8C[0])\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-12.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Fasting is a practice that is part and parcel of the human experience. Whether you\u2019re doing it for religious, spiritual, or health reasons, there is evidence of people having fasted throughout history. Today, people fast for many reasons. In the world of health and fitness, fasting is often associated with weight loss. Intermittent fasting in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":56533,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[150],"tags":[],"coauthors":[109,87],"class_list":["post-56530","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-fasting-diet"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How to Prepare For a Fast: 9 Essential Tips for Success - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you curious about \u2605 HOW TO PREPARE FOR A FAST \u27a4? Check out this article for the best tips to keep you safe and ensure success while fasting short- or long-term.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, nofollow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Prepare For a Fast: 9 Essential Tips for Success\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Are you curious about \u2605 HOW TO PREPARE FOR A FAST \u27a4? Check out this article for the best tips to keep you safe and ensure success while fasting short- or long-term.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast-1024x576.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"576\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"\u0421. Kamau, Kristen Fleming, RD\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\u0421. Kamau, Kristen Fleming, RD\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"13 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"\u0421. Kamau\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/05bcd715bea15329a5c0bc94910663b3\"},\"headline\":\"How to Prepare For a Fast: 9 Essential Tips for Success\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/\"},\"wordCount\":2719,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Fasting\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Fasting is a practice that is part and parcel of the human experience. Whether you\u2019re doing it for religious, spiritual, or health reasons, there is evidence of people having fasted throughout history.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span data-sheets-value=\\\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;[video-shortcode link=\\\\&quot;https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\\\\&quot; mp4=\\\\&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4.mp4\\\\&quot;]&quot;}\\\" data-sheets-userformat=\\\"{&quot;2&quot;:256,&quot;11&quot;:3}\\\" data-sheets-formula=\\\"=replace(R[-12]C[0],SEARCH(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;,R[-12]C[0]),LEN(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;),R8C[0])\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Today, people fast for many reasons. In the world of health and fitness, fasting is often associated with weight loss. Intermittent fasting in particular has been suggested to have both weight loss and general health benefits.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">If you\u2019d like to start fasting but do not know where to start, then you\u2019ve come to the right place. Read on to learn how to prepare for a fast so you can complete it safely and reap all the benefits that are associated with this centuries-old practice.<\/span>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>How Do I Prepare for a Fast the Day Before?<\/b><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">When it comes to fasting, it is ideally best to start planning more than a day before. While fasting can look as easy as \u201cstop eating at time \u2018a\u2019 and start eating at time \u2018b\u2019\u201d, it is actually more complicated.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">In order to be successful at your fast to lose weight or for spiritual\/religious reasons, it is best to start preparing at least 3 days or even a week before. Here are some tips on how to prepare for a fast:<\/span>\\r\\n<h3 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"> ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/\",\"name\":\"How to Prepare For a Fast: 9 Essential Tips for Success - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast.png\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"description\":\"Are you curious about \u2605 HOW TO PREPARE FOR A FAST \u27a4? 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Kamau, Kristen Fleming, RD","Est. reading time":"13 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/"},"author":{"name":"\u0421. Kamau","@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/05bcd715bea15329a5c0bc94910663b3"},"headline":"How to Prepare For a Fast: 9 Essential Tips for Success","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/"},"wordCount":2719,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/how-to-prepare-for-a-fast.png","articleSection":["Fasting"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fasting is a practice that is part and parcel of the human experience. Whether you\u2019re doing it for religious, spiritual, or health reasons, there is evidence of people having fasted throughout history.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;[video-shortcode link=\\&quot;https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1443&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_prepare_for_a_fast\\&quot; mp4=\\&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4.mp4\\&quot;]&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:256,&quot;11&quot;:3}\" data-sheets-formula=\"=replace(R[-12]C[0],SEARCH(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;,R[-12]C[0]),LEN(&quot;LINK TO QUIZ&quot;),R8C[0])\"><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Today, people fast for many reasons. In the world of health and fitness, fasting is often associated with weight loss. Intermittent fasting in particular has been suggested to have both weight loss and general health benefits.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019d like to start fasting but do not know where to start, then you\u2019ve come to the right place. Read on to learn how to prepare for a fast so you can complete it safely and reap all the benefits that are associated with this centuries-old practice.<\/span>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>How Do I Prepare for a Fast the Day Before?<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to fasting, it is ideally best to start planning more than a day before. While fasting can look as easy as \u201cstop eating at time \u2018a\u2019 and start eating at time \u2018b\u2019\u201d, it is actually more complicated.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In order to be successful at your fast to lose weight or for spiritual\/religious reasons, it is best to start preparing at least 3 days or even a week before. 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