The Daniel Fast is a popular diet and fasting regimen, based on one believed to have been followed by the biblical figure, Daniel. It has become popular amongst religious individuals, vegans, and those looking to lose weight or better their health.
Whilst the traditional Daniel Fast involves no solid food, drinks are allowed, including water and herbal tea. Another common drink of choice is black coffee.
It is important to keep in mind, that when one adheres to the Daniel Fast, the idea is to “deny the flesh”, meaning that “self-gratification” should be avoided. For this reason, some may believe that adding sweeteners, syrups and creams to one’s coffee would be against the rules of this fast. Additionally, adding these additivities could potentially have a negative impact on one’s health, nonetheless, overall calorie intake.
Caffeine itself is also an area of debate amongst adherents of the Daniel Fast, since many see it as a stimulant and feel that it would break their fast. Others, however, feel that their coffee is the highlight of their day and consider the moderate consumption of caffeine to be ok.
The American Heart Association and the Mayo Clinic both believe that small to moderate amounts of caffeine per day – that is, up to 400 milligrams – are safe for most people and won’t have highly negative effects, provided one isn’t caffeine-sensitive. It should also be noted that black coffee contains only a minimum of calories and has virtually no nutritional value.
So, to summarise, there are a range of opinions on whether one can drink black coffee on a Daniel Fast – some say no, some say yes. Ultimately, those deciding to do the fast must decide for themselves. As the saying goes, “Trustwell thyself, every heart vibrates to that iron string.”
Sleep
An important aspect of wellness for followers of the Daniel Fast is enough restful, restorative sleep. Adequate sleep allows for proper mental and physical restoration and recovery in a healthy and safe manner. Quite significantly, sleep is actually the only time when the body is able to regenerate and rejuvenate.
The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, and this should be observed when on a Daniel Fast. Someone who is well-rested is going to find it easier to maintain their diet and exercise regime, and in turn, be able to enjoy all the benefits of the fast to the fullest
Not getting enough sleep can cause fatigue and stress, which are thought to be two underlying factors in weight gain and obesity. It is for this reason that sleep should not be overlooked when on a fast, such as the Daniel Fast.
Furthermore, research has also found that it is generally easier to practice healthier eating habits if one has had enough sleep. As such, those looking to optimize their weight loss goals might want to take this point into consideration and make sure that they are getting enough rest.
Grains and Staples
The traditional Daniel Fast is mostly plant-based, without any animal products of any kind. This means that adherents abstain from meat, dairy and eggs. Additionally, anything containing yeast, gluten and leavening agents is removed as well.
Foods such as bread, pasta and cereal are not allowed on the Daniel Fast, as they are considered to be leavening agents. Some are able to drink unsweetened milk substitutes and consume gluten-free grains and flours. These can come in the form of quinoa, salmon, brown rice, buckwheat, amaranth.
Adherents of the Daniel Fast may also eat snacks such as nuts, seeds, fruit and vegetables. When it comes to oils and fats, avocado, olive oil, sesame oil, and extra virgin coconut oil are best. It is important to remember that no sugar, honey or other sweeteners are allowed on the Daniel Fast.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption is, of course, not recommended during a Daniel Fast. Alcohol tends to increase one’s appetite and weaken the body’s defenses against environmental toxins.
It can also lead to overeating and poor food choices, which defeats the purpose of a Daniel Fast. Additionally, yet another reason to abstain from alcohol when fasting, is because it is known to take away from the spiritual aspect of the fast.
The goal is for one to focus on the spiritual, as well as physical, aspect of their health, and taking in toxins is not going to have a positive impact on either. Further, serious health issues can arise from excessive alcohol consumption, and so this should be avoided at all costs.
Exercise
During a fast, it is important to stay active and incorporate physical activity into one’s lifestyle, as this will help one to remain healthy and productive.
Activities such as walking and jogging, yoga and Pilates, and strength training and yoga, can be adopted and can help one to maintain their weight, improve their mood and overall feel good. Additionally, exercise is known to improve general sleep quality, so that one can really benefit from their down-time.
When fasting, one should listen to their body and opt for exercises that are best suited to their own individual needs. This could involve lengthier sessions, or shorter periods of activity. The key is to be consistent with whatever individuals decide works best for them and adhere to it.
Mental Health
It is also important to remember one’s own mental health when undertaking a Daniel Fast. Fasting can potentially cause irritability, agitation and engage in extreme behaviours that are not characteristic of one’s self.
In order to try and maintain a positive mental health outlook during a Daniel Fast, it is important to question one’s own motivations and find ways to fill their time with meaningful activities. Additionally, meditating on a daily basis and engaging in stress-reducing relaxation activities can help.
Further, talking to a spiritual adviser might also be beneficial during a fast and help one to find balance within their soul. All in all, remembering to keep an eye on one’s own mental health is sure to make the Daniel Fast a successful and enjoyable experience.
Communication
In order to make the experience of a Daniel Fast a success, it is important that one is honest with those around them. Being honest with friends or family members can help to set up guidelines and give people permission to hold one accountable.
Moreover, discussing the specific dietary plans with those in one’s immediate circle is important in order to form a support network and get back on track when things get tough. Such a network can also help one to become comfortable with the process, hold each accountable, and be there to provide moral and emotional support.
Last but not least, it is also important for their loved ones to understand the positive impacts that this change will bring, so that they can be happy and supportive from the start, rather than feeling that they are being deprived of something.
Affirmation and Gratitude
It is also a good idea to practice affirmation and gratitude during a Daniel Fast. Studies have consistently proven that gratitude can improve physical health, psychological wellbeing and protect one against negative emotional states.
By taking part in daily gratitude practices and thinking about one’s most meaningful experiences on a regular basis, one can stay focused on their positive outlook and be mindful of their blessings. There is also evidence to suggest that gratitude is associated with increased optimism and agreedness, something that can be beneficial during any fast.
Finally, one of the most important things to keep in mind during a Daniel Fast is to maintain a positive attitude. Negativity will only lead to frustration and the likelihood of dropping out of the fast altogether. Focusing on the benefits and turning a blind eye to negative thoughts is the only way to make this a successful journey.
