God And His Word - A Question And Answer Approach To Understanding The Bible

few meals are missed, stomach "pains" are the demand of appetite for satisfaction. True hunger doesn't begin until the end of a long fast, and this may take weeks (perhaps up to 40 days). Actual body hunger begins when all waste tissue is used up by the body. Some people get a headache after one day of fasting. Often this can be traced to the person's improper eating habits, excessive coffee drinking, eating of sweets, etc. It is also possible for a person to have a basic physical ailment that would affect the way in which he feels during the fast; such a condition necessitates great care in determining the intensity and duration of the fast. Do not be alarmed by headaches, slight fever and bad breath. The oxidizing of waste materials by the body systems is responsible for these reactions. This is why it is ESSENTIAL to drink a lot of water, preferably six glasses a day; this helps the natural elimination handle the waste material more efficiently. There is actually a very real physical profit in fasting. The body undergoes a period of rest and cleansing that is of great value. At the same time, the mind, emotions and spirit of the person undergo a remarkable sharpening of perception and a deepened sensitivity to the more important things in life. A new devotion to God takes place, a true humility becomes evident, and a new deeper appreciation for simple necessities takes over. 4. SHOULD A PERSON WHO IS ON MEDICATION STOP TAKING IT DURING A FAST? It is best for the individual to determine this for himself. If he is taking heavy medication, it would be best to have his physician's opinion.

240