I’m doing IF where I’m doing a two day water fast followed by around three days of eating at only set times but a close friend is fasting for several weeks and I want to know if that sort of fast is safe.
While I can’t deny the results he’s been having (losing around 30lbs since Christmas), it seems to be pretty unhealthy, if not dangerous to lose so much weight so fast and to also put his body through so much stress.
I have done two 21 day water fasts each January for the last 2 years. I am on day 15 of my third annual 21 day water fast. I don’t think it is unhealthy, based on my research and personal experience I believe it is actually quite good for me.
If you want a good understanding of what’s going on read “Complete Guide To Fasting (Heal Your Body Through Intermittent, Alternate-Day, and Extended Fasting)” By Dr. Jason
Fung.
Here is a bit of info from one of his talks:
https://www.idmprogram.com/wp-content/uploads/Episode-14-Science-Transcript.pdf
If he has the fat for it, it’s fine. There is no such thing as “losing weight too fast” this is a weird myth from god knows where. What can be unhealthy is electrolyte imbalances and micronutrient deficiency. As long as he’s monitoring these things and supplementing when needed it’s perfectly safe.
Definitely one of the most common worries people have when they get into longer fasts.
The best answer is to get them to ask their doctor for a medical exam to make sure they’re fine.
Assuming that they’re medically healthy there’s nothing wrong with that length of a fast if they follow certain guidelines like keeping up on their hydration and electrolytes. As long as you have fat to burn and don’t get to thirsty you can theoretically fast for as long as you want. It’ll be uncomfortable and takes a lot of willpower but your friend will be fine if they’ve done their research.