Fasting - the science of not eating

Not all fasting is the same. There are actually different ways of eating nothing or little, and each has its own special features. The best-known methods are:

Intermittent fasting: The clear star among the fasting methods. Here, eating phases and breaks alternate in a specific pattern. The 16/8 method is popular, where you don't touch anything for 16 hours a day and eat normally for the remaining 8 hours. This is particularly convenient for anyone who simply wants to try out fasting without having to jump straight into the ice-cold water. There are countless variations of this method, including 20/4 (20 hours of fasting with a 4-hour eating window), 5/2 (i.e. five days of normal eating and two days of fasting), 24- or 36-hour fasting or alternate-day fasting (alternating days of eating and fasting).

Full fasting: This is where it gets more serious. Full fasting involves completely abstaining from solid food for several days to weeks. Water, unsweetened teas and selected broths from time to time are all that is allowed. This method is particularly intensive for beginners and should only be done with prior consultation.

Juice fasting: If you can't do without your fruity sweet tooth, this approach is best for you. Because instead of solid food, freshly squeezed juices are the order of the day here. You can use the colors as a guide: a colorful mixture of fruits and vegetables provides the body with the most important nutrients. But please don't cheat: Sugared juices from the supermarket are taboo here. We're talking about natural, unprocessed juices, preferably from your own blender.

Teildetox: A relatively gentle form of fasting. Here, certain foods such as sugar, processed foods or caffeine are removed from the plan. This is also ideal for the first steps into fasting, as this form is more like a change in diet. It definitely relieves the body.

Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages. The most important thing is to get to grips with the concept you have chosen and not fall into harmful patterns. After all, it's not about who can go the longest without eating. So if you're going into fasting territory, you should know that there are a few things to bear in mind.

Vitamins and minerals:Vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium and magnesium should never be neglected. A few dried fruits will keep you replenished.

Good fats: Yes, fats are important, even when fasting. The unsaturated fatty acids found in nuts in particular are essential for the body. They provide energy and support the brain.

Fiber: Even if you eat less, you shouldn't forget about fiber. It helps digestion and keeps the system running smoothly. Dried fruit is another proven source here.

Protein: Nuts are little powerhouses when it comes to protein. During fasting, a little protein kick can help keep the body going.

Be careful with the quantity: Although nuts and dried fruit are great sources of nutrients, especially during fasting, you shouldn't overdo it. Because they are not stingy with calories either, which can mess up your fasting mode.

Nothing beats body awareness

Fasting can be a fascinating journey that helps you to become more aware of your body and do it good. With the right information and optimal preparation, you can get off to a good start. But whether you want to give it a try or not - listen carefully to your body and find out whether going without food can really do you good. Either way ... the main thing is that you feel good.