When to Stop Fasting Immediately

CEBU, Philippines — According to Ayurveda, fasting is an effective way of kindling the digestive fire and burning the accumulated toxins from the body as well as the mind. It improves the mental clarity, eliminates gas, and promotes a healthy body. Despite the many health benefits, Ayurveda always prefers regular and short-term fasting over irregular or frequent and long-term fasting.

Since our digestive system is resting during the fast, it is very important not to put a strain on the digestive fire. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should put an end to your fasting right away:

1. Burning sensation in the stomach

If you have a severe burning sensation in the stomach or a gastritis problem, you must not fast. If ever you fast, make sure you take proper precautions.

2. Vomiting

A vomiting sensation indicates gastric irritation and electrolyte imbalance in the body. Hence, it is not advisable to continue your fast.

3. Unconsciousness

If you feel like you are going to faint any time, or if you are feeling very dizzy, it is an indirect indication that your brain is deprived of glucose since there is no supply of food to it. If you fall unconscious, you must put an end to your fast immediately or at least have a little fruit juice to gain some energy.

4. Pain in the stomach, chest, and abdominal areas

Pain in any of these areas mentioned above is a sure-shot sign that you must stop fasting immediately. Though you may be doing it for spiritual purposes, you must not forget that your health is a priority. Any pain in these areas may lead to serious health conditions. Hence, you must discontinue fasting in the light of any of these symptoms.

5. Diarrhea

Diarrhea occurs when you consume the wrong fruits or fruit juice. It might also occur due to the quantity or quality of fruits or food that you consumed while fasting. Since fruits are cold in nature, people suffering from respiratory issues must avoid eating them. Diarrhea, if not treated on time, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, and this can lead to worsening of chronic diseases such as asthma.

6. Menstruation

Menstruating women have their physical power reduced somehow. And if they’re fasting during that period, even a little extra physical activity is not good for the body. Thus, it is better not to fast during menstrual periods.

The Right Way to End a Fast

Knowing how to properly stop fasting is a crucial part of fasting. Since your body is in the resting phase during the fasting, your stomach shrinks and the intestines also become idle.

Begin with frequent and small meals, and gradually progress to larger meals, until you reach the normal eating routine. It is recommended that you have small meals because introducing solid foods slowly to the digestive system prevents kidney failure and other disorders related to indigestion.

Also, if you need to travel suddenly, it is better not to continue fasting as improper consumption of food may lead to several health issues. Always remember that fasting in a healthy manner increases your energy and develops a feeling of lightness in your body and promotes clarity of mind. It also helps in relieving constipation and regulating the bowel movement.

Fasting is great for your body. But, you must also keep in mind that you need to listen to your body and pay attention to what it is trying to communicate to you.