How to Prepare for a Five Day Fast

Preparing for a fast is important so you body has a chance to adjust to the lack of calories. Whether you're just drinking water or doing a five-day juice fast, read about the fast and, in the case of a juice fast, buy fresh, organic fruits and vegetables so you'll be prepared before you start. Get as much done as you can before the fast starts so you can spend more time resting and relaxing during your fast.

Instructions

• 1

  Choose a quiet time to do your five-day fast. If you pick a long weekend when you have no other plans, you only have to keep up on your regular activities for two days. It's important to have time to rest during a fast because you likely won't have the energy you usually do for all the activity in your normal day-to-day life.

• 2

  Cut down on foods and beverages that are part of your regular diet but are not appropriate when you're about to fast. This includes meat and poultry, refined white bread, rice and pasta, sugar, caffeine, alcohol and processed foods. Cut down on these foods gradually over a few days rather than eliminating them in one day since that can cause headaches. As you get closer to your fast, eliminate eggs and dairy as well.

• 3

  Eat primarily organic fruits and vegetables. In the day or two before your fast, have fruit for breakfast and vegetables or clear vegetable-based broth for lunch or dinner. In between, try to limit snacks to fresh juices and simply drink water when you are hungry. This will make the transition to the fast much easier.

• 4

  Drink plenty of water. Choose filtered water or distilled water, but make sure it is the highest quality you can find. Drink a glass of water when you wake up and continue to drink a small glass every couple of hours throughout the day. Before your fast, add flavorings such as citrus fruits or cucumber. You can also do this during your fast if it's a juice fast. Water is important not only for hydrating but also for cleansing the body.