i will probably take a few sips of fluids at first (baking soda water) then maybe some water with electrolytes then i can let that settle and drink as much as i want after right? i’m not talking 5 gallons but maybe 3 to 4 litres?
I have no experience with long dry fasts, but I think Dr. Filonov recommends sipping fluids slowly the first 12 hours.
Also I think in cases of severe dehydration, the military recommends drinking water slowly, otherwise it could affect osmotic pressure of cells or something.
Not sure about the exact time and amounts, but I´d try limit myself and make notes/measure what you drink. 3-4 litres sounds a lot unless you are active and/or it´s hot weather. I would have guessed 2 litres would be better especially if you start eating later the same day and get some water from there too.
I honestly drink way too much, so above written is also a sort of note to self. I probably did drink more like 3-4 litres and felt so bloated that I felt handicapped. Was really careful taking it slow the first 4-ish hours, but then I stopped keeping track of the amounts which was a big mistake. Just kept on drinking cuz I still felt thirsty/craving for drinks.