How To Do A Juice Fast

Fasting has always been an integral part of Indian culture for various reasons. It is said that fasting pleases the Gods and people who succeed at pleasing the Gods get longevity and health. This message is pretty deep rooted in Indian culture with the Hindu mythology brimming with stories of agile men and women who get both their health and long life by God’s grace through a simple process of fasting. But when you read between the lines and draw today’s science to shed some light on the correlation of fasting and good health, you would realise that fasting isn’t done to please the Gods - it pleases nature. And your body is nature that we here are talking about. Fasting detoxifies the body, cleanses the mind and is a very potent way of losing weight. While traditionally a fast allowed only water to be consumed throughout the day, the present-day concept of fasting is way more relaxed and makes allowances for fruits and, in some cases, regular food too. However, the best variant of a fast is the juice fast. Juices are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants and can help support your body's needs, while you abstain from food.

Juice Fasting Tips

Preparation

Do your fast during summer or spring, as this is the time when fruit and vegetables are readily available.
If you are going for more than a single day fast and doing it for the first time, then prepare well in advance. Eliminate sugar, alcohol, dairy products, nicotine, caffeine, wheat, animal meat, fish and eggs from your diet at least a week before you begin a fast.
Increase your intake of organic food and juices a week before the fast.

During The Fast

Make sure you consume about 32-64 oz. of juice every fasting day. And in order to not get bored of the juices, try variations in your diet.
Stay hydrated. It is extremely important to drink at least six glasses of water at room temperature when fasting.

After The Fast

Never indulge yourself too much after the fast ends.
Work your diet back to normal by gradually adding solid foods to your diet. Start with a few fruits and then resume your regular eating habits.

Additional Tips

Never mess with your health. Always make sure that the current state of your health can deal with the fast.
Don't publicize your fast. Tell only your close circle and when invited for outings, simply turn them down saying you have other plans.
Distract yourself. When fasting, temptation of food can be quite strong and killing. At such times, get yourself distracted in any way that works on you. It could be reading, watching TV or even going out for a stroll. But remember, do not exert yourself playing games and doing other physically demanding activities.
Make time for yourself. Fasting days tend to seem longer than the regular ones. The best way to kill time on such days is to make time for yourself and pamper your body. Stay longer in a warm shower, scrub yourself and apply all the face packs that you’ve been meaning to for quite some time.
Do not vegetate. If you sit at home all day long, you tend to feel more tempted and hungry. So instead of sitting at home doing nothing, go out and do light stuff. If you work, then try not to fast in the peak time. Also make some salt and oil free broths or soups and carry with you in a thermal flask. Herbal tea is another good option.
Doze off. When the body is busy detoxifying itself, you may feel tired and sleepy. Give in to your body’s sleep requirements and sleep an hour earlier than normal at night. This will give your body that much needed rest.

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