If you’re following a fast, one of the biggest questions you’ll have is, “Can I drink water while fasting?” The answer is a resounding “yes!” It’s possible to have flavored water during a fast, but you’ll want to read the label to make sure you’re not consuming added sweeteners. While natural no-calorie sweeteners are acceptable, artificial ones may trigger sugar cravings.
There are numerous benefits to drinking water during a fast, including improved health. When fasting, consider how much you’re actually thirsty and watch the color of your urine, as a darker yellow or green urine indicates dehydration. While there’s little research to back this up, one study involved 30 seemingly healthy volunteers in a 24-hour water fast. Participants showed a significant decrease in blood cholesterol and triglycerides, two major risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
In intermittent fasting, you will alternate between periods of eating and fasting, reducing caloric intake by a certain amount. Fasting does not have any particular diet plan, but rather a framework for when you should eat and drink. This allows you to choose the right timing for your fast. It’s best to consult a nutritionist before embarking on a fast to avoid side effects. But regardless of which type of fast you’re following, water consumption is essential to your overall health.
There are many situations when you may be required to fast for an extended period of time. However, clear liquids such as water are a good choice because they are easily digested. However, before you go under an operation, make sure you know the rules regarding water and fasting. Then, if you’re in between meals, you may want to consider other options such as tea or a glass of juice.
