My Personal Journey with 72 Hour Fasts: Insights and Discoveries
Fasting has become more than just a health trend; it’s a lifestyle choice that can significantly impact our well-being. It has been practiced for centuries across various cultures and for different reasons and as someone who embarked on a fasting journey at the beginning of this year, I want to share my experiences, challenges, and some of the science behind it.
One fasting approach gaining popularity is the 36-hour fast. You can read more about that here. But, inn this blog post, we’ll explore the my experiences and the benefits of the 72 hour extended fasting window and provide practical tools and resources to help you get started. A lot of what is shared here is a mix of my own experience and advice followed by Dr Mindy Pelz - who I rate highly!
The 72-Hour Fast with Dr. Mindy Pelz
In January 2024, I took the plunge and participated in a 72-hour fast led by the renowned Dr. Mindy Pelz. I came across Dr Mindy on Instagram while I awaited my test kit for the Zoe Programme and instantly found her expertise and guidance insightful and invaluable, particularly as I started to learn about the various fasting lengths. Here’s what I learned during my 3-day water fast:
Mindset Matters: Beyond the Physical
Extended fasts are as much about mindset as they are about physical endurance. Dr. Pelz emphasises the mental fortitude required to sustain a longer fast. It’s not about abstaining from food; it’s a journey of healing the body. Reminding yourself of this throughout the fast takes some effort at first, but it really does make a difference.
Understanding Fasting Symptoms
Yes, you can experience symptoms during fasting—things like headaches, fatigue, and irritability. Dr. Pelz explains that these are your body’s natural detox responses. As your system adjusts, it sheds toxins, and these symptoms can be a consequence of that. I had my own experience of what I think was ‘Keto flu’, where I felt extremely cold and had the shivers. Shivering is a common symptom of keto flu, often experienced due to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration during the initial stages of adapting to the ketogenic diet. I’ll come on to electrolytes later on.
Likewise, there are positive symptoms/ outcomes too - weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, cellular repair, and mental clarity—these are just a few of the scientifically backed advantages of the fasting lifestyle.
The Judgment Factor
People can be quick to judge when they hear about fasting or cleansing. They might raise eyebrows or question your choices. But here’s the catch: Many of these critics haven’t bothered to explore the factual health benefits of fasting. I always encourage people to do their own research and speak to the experts if wanting to adopt a fasting lifestyle.
Energy Levels: A Roller Coaster Ride
During the fast, my energy levels were like a seesaw. Some moments, I felt invigorated, while others left me feeling drained. Dr. Pelz’s advice on electrolyte balance and hydration played a crucial role in managing these fluctuations.
Surprisingly Not Hungry
Day 1 and 2 were the easiest for me and contrary to my expectations, hunger wasn’t a constant companion. The body adapts, and after the initial hunger pangs (mainly day 3), I found myself surprisingly satiated. Dr. Pelz emphasizes that hunger often stems from habit rather than true physiological need.
MCT Oil and Electrolytes
Unlike some fasting enthusiasts, I didn’t rely on MCT oil or electrolyte supplements. However, I’ve decided to incorporate them into my extended fasts moving forward to ensure my body has all the nutrients it needs. Dr. Pelz’s research highlights their benefits in maintaining energy levels and preventing muscle cramps.
Workouts During Fasting
Yes, you can still work out during a fast! I followed light exercises (yoga and brisk walks are good). Dr. Pelz recommends listening to your body and adjusting the intensity based on how you feel.
The Keto Connection
As a devout follower of the keto diet, I appreciated Dr. Pelz’s insights on combining fasting with a low-carb lifestyle. The synergy between ketosis and fasting enhances fat burning and metabolic flexibility.
Dr. Mindy Pelz: A Beacon of Fasting Wisdom
Dr. Mindy Pelz, a chiropractor, nutritionist, and fasting expert, has dedicated her career to educating people about fasting’s transformative effects. Her book, “Fast Like a Girl,”delves into various fasting protocols. Here are some key takeaways:
Autophagy Unleashed: Dr. Pelz explains how fasting triggers autophagy, the cellular cleanup process. It’s like spring cleaning for your cells, promoting longevity and health.
Women and Fasting: Her book addresses the unique considerations for women during fasting. Hormonal fluctuations, menstrual cycles, and stress play a role, and Dr. Pelz provides practical solutions.
Tools and Strategies: From fasting apps to mindset shifts, Dr. Pelz equips readers with tools to succeed. She emphasises community support and accountability.
Conclusion
My fasting journey continues, and Dr. Mindy Pelz’s wisdom guides me. Whether it’s a shorter 18 hour fast (often called 18:6 intermittent fast) or a longer one, remember that fasting is a personal experience. Listen to your body, stay informed, and embrace the transformative power of intentional fasting for healing.
“Fast like a girl”—because strength lies in simplicity and resilience. 🌟