As per the idea from OilpainterUS here is our very own space to join the gang!
Do come and join in with chat, ideas, words of wisdom. All are welcome.
We are beginning at 7pm GMT on March 02 2020.
Look forward to hearing about your journey!
The long fasters support chat thread, ... - Fasting and Furious
The long fasters support chat thread, all welcome :)
StoozieAdministrator
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Stoozie
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Thanks for doing this, Stoozie! It should be a lot of fun with laughter and support in abundance.
Everyone is welcome to join whether it's a goal of 24 hours, 36 or 48.
Share this with your friends, too? It would be fantastic to get a large enough group here with more fasts so no one need fast alone. 😊
Yes, I'll join this group. This last week or so, I am finding it quite easy to miss breakfast and fast until lunchtime, if having 1 cup of tea with a little whole milk and 1 coffee with 1 tablespoon of cream, is fasting! I started LCHF just before Christmas and couldn't manage to fast initially, but as I'm losing cravings for rubbish food, I'm thinking less and less about eating.
Welcome 
Great to have you!
S11mVolunteer 70lb IF20
I will be ahead of you, as I am starting my fast at about 14:00 - today Thursday the 27th.
Some of you might be fasting beyond 24 hours for the first time - and your target or thoughts might be about "getting through it".
It is best to Intermittent Fast for weeks (or months) before trying a longer fast - but Dr Jason Fung puts some of his acute diabetes patients on an initial two or three week fast.
You should not just think about how to minimise the problems: you should also be thinking about how you can maximise the benefit.
What you eat before you start the fast is important...
I expect that most of you want to lose weight - so you will not be trying to accumulate extra spare fat before the fast to get you through it (as I did on my last fast or two).
Eating less calories and carbohydrate before the fast will deplete your glycogen reserves and insulin so you will be able to start burning fat and get into ketosis sooner.
If you go straight from the SAD (Standard American Diet) to a fast you might be more susceptible to keto flu - I got it after going straight into a fast after Christmas lunch.
Eating less protein before the fast will help you get into autophagy earlier. Autophagy is the body recycling spare, old or infected cells - when the body does not have ample dietry protien.
During the fast it is best to "clean fast" and eat nothing and drink only black tea or coffee (that includes green tea!).
I take a teaspoonful of pink Himalayan salt in my green tea every morning and magnesium (partly because I get cramp if I do not.)
You might find that, if you exercise long and hard a day or two into the fast, you lack energy. During a fast, when your glycogen reserves are low, your exercise calorie burn rate is limited to the rate at which you can get energy from your fat reserves.
Refeeding syndrome should not be a problem after a fast of a few days, but it is best not to eat too much after the fast - and you will feel better if you break your fast with fat (e. g. full-fat yoghurt).
Has anyone else got any tips?
I am gobsmacked at the thoughts of fasting for 24 hours never mind for longer!!! I'm heading for this a meal at a time. Skipping breakfast is enough for me at the moment - babe steps!
Hi S11m - how are you getting on with your weekly fast? Hope all is going well, and that you're not needing to be out and about battling the weather today!
Subtle_badger16Kg IF 72hrs
A couple of thoughts:
Everything I have read is that day 2 is the hardest day of fasting. I don't know if that is true, but if it is then a 48 hour fast is the worst pain:gain ratio. If I make it to 48 hours, I may try to power through for at least overnight.
Googling I found this essay on fasting. Obviously it will be completely different to what we will experience, but it is still interesting.
esquire.com/uk/life/fitness...
Some things are familiar:
I take magnesium.
I organised one fast to coincide with the fast I had to do for a colon endoscopy/polypectomy - so I had the laxatives and the tube!
Broth etc. does contain calories - so his was not a "clean fast" - but perhaps the clinic knew what they were doing.
...and it snowed here today!
Subtle_badger16Kg IF 72hrs
Can I suggest this thread/topic/discussion be a safe space? Whatever the participants are doing should not be questioned. Some of us will be doing things that others of us do not regard as a fast, but I think we should suppress the urge to criticise. However many calories we are ingesting, we will be trying hard and possibly suffering.
So if someone asks "can I consume this without breaking my fast?" obviously answer with your honest opinion, but if someone says - for example - "I fasted today drinking nothing but 2 serves of (food)", then just let that go, even if you regard (food) as breaking a fast. We won't be perfect, but we will almost certainly be better than we would be without support.
Anyone who wants a pure fast can open a discussion for those that agree with those parameters.
Similarly, a discussion on what counts as fasting would be interesting to many of us. Just not here.
If you see a post you disagree with in this thread, I would suggest you send a personal message to Stoozie rather than criticising someone who may be struggling and vulnerable to criticism. Stoozie may agree, and delete the post. That feels a way of respecting the participants without derailing an individual.
A very sensible approach! Great comment.
Thanks.
I've realised I was a little too proscriptive; of course if you think someone is doing something dangerous or harmful, then use your judgement on what the best action to take is.
The plan is to support and encourage - and what constitutes a fast depends on what you are trying to achieve.
Unless you are ill, fasting should not involve too much motivation and masochism - and avoid too much suffering.
As I am within my target weight range, I could consider a Fast Mimicking Diet (FMD) - trying to get the benefits of a water-fast without losing (much) weight.
It would seem logical to me to discuss all aspects of longer fasts here, in this thread, while we are doing a langer fast - what do you think, Original Poster and Admin Stoozie ?
Hiya, yes, I see no problems in discussing all types of long fast S11m and will be very interested in how your FMD experiment goes.
Thanks - I said “I could consider FMD”: My body-fat-Percentage is below what is considered optimal by some sources, but I am, slightly, above NHS/WHO BMI 25, and, longevity or not, I feel I would like to get there!
I suggest that there should be no further discussion about (my) target weight/body-fat-percentage here - I will start another post.
Great points! I’ve come here for inspiration and support as I also do LCHF but on that page was told to give up IF which isn’t supportive as I’ve found it’s helping me to stop overeating! Today I’m going for a 24 hour fast - yesterday I did OMAD instead of my usual 2 so it seems a good time to go without any meal. But as I finished eating window yesterday at 7 pm I’m wondering if I should break my fast this evening or if I’m not hungry- carry on til tomorrow?
Advice welcomed?
Right now I am doing ADF (alternative daily fasting), so eating in a twelve hour window, then fasting for 36 hours.
I'm doing it because it seems to be targeting my visceral fat, and for general weight loss and autophagy. The Awful Toad would not approve. 😂
That sounds tough! I can’t quite remember we when I had my last snack - I ate an avocado at 2 pm to break my fast yesterday, before a long walk then had a big salad with 2 boiled eggs, some cheese and a little ham for my main meal at 4 and then a small snack of nuts in the evening. ( I think around 7)I’m going to see how I go. I feel a bit light headed but not hungry. If I think I need to replenish salts I’ll have a cup of weak bouillon this evening but my usual window to eat is between 12 pm and 8 so I don’t want to have breakfast so it might end up around 41 hours .
Feeling faint? make sure you don't do anything that would become dangerous if you fainted or got dizzy. No tightrope walking until after the your next meal!
(not a doctor blah blah blah)light-headedness could be low blood glucose - but if your brain isn't used to using ketones, it might be feeling starved. If your brain is fat adapted, it still needs some glucose, which your liver can produce, but maybe it isn't doing that on demand yet. It should adjust.
Or it could be low blood pressure. If you haven' t had any salt, you should. I put it in my coffee and tea.
Actually, low serum sodium on it's own could cause dizziness, seizure or a coma (thank you google). Insulin holds sodium in the blood, your insulin will be low, so your serum sodium may be as well.
Other electrolytes you may be missing are potassium, magnesium and calcium.
I haven't got this right yet. I still am awoken by cramps quite often, which must be down to low electrolytes.
I’m definitely having some bouillon later and if I feel v hungry I’ll eat. I don’t feel hungry weirdly. I’m also reading the binge code today which has just said eat little and often to avoid binges ( too much information!) but I know there’s medical advice that says IF is healthy as is LCHF so I’ll take what I need and leave what I don’t!
Although bouillon tastes gross!
My son and family are coming to stay with us for a week this Saturday so I won't be joining in for a long fast on this occasion - my granddaughter loves going to the ice cream café after playing at the playground and of course it would be rude not to join her 
but good luck to the rest of you. I'll try to log in and see how it's going
Ice has Glycemic Index zero - perhaps ice-cream retailers should sell Glycaemic Index (GI) zero ice - like bars sell gin-free tonic-and-a-slice?
Thanks for setting this up! Looking forward to giving a longer fast a go next week. No idea if I can get past 24 hours, but I'll hopefully benefit from chatting with like minded people here. My plan is to drink only water and black coffee... and beyond 24 hours I may need some weak bouillon to get me past that psychological hurdle.... we'll see!
StoozieAdministrator
Thanks to everyone for all the tips and thoughts so far.
I intend to prepare for my fast by being lower carb and zero alcohol from lunchtime on Sunday, to maximize my body's ability to stay on an even keel for sugars/hormones/sleep etc etc in the run up to the fast.
I'm looking forward to it. I also intend to have very absorbing projects to do over Tuesday and Wednesday, and intend to clear out the shed. Thanks to Nugger for this tip.
S11mVolunteer 70lb IF20
"Emergency" Snacks:
You might find your (first longer) fast "challenging".
Remember - if we were trapped or marooned and could not eat for a week, it is unlikely that anyone with no health problems would have any problem (unless they stuffed themselves afterwards).
...but you might not want to or be able to sit around and do nothing for days, and might feel the need for energy.
I recommend having some low-carb, (Low-Glycaemic Index) food available to give you an energy boost during the fast if you need it (or to eat after your scheduled end-of-fast). Carbohydrate raises blood glucose, which raises insulin, which reduces blood glucose, which makes you hungry - and the result tends to be a carbo-binge. An Avocado or some nuts might be sufficient.
Hey good luck folks and well done Stoozie for thjis thread and OilpainterUS for suggesting it, support will be given to all members undertaking the group fast as we'll be cheering you on so any questions or queries then please just ask away folks. 😊
StoozieAdministrator
How is everyone feeling? Excited? Nervous?
A bit nervous! I had an epiphany though... there are no ‘fasting police’ 😂😂😂 if I don’t do what I plan to do, no one is going to throw the book at me!
There is no failing! That's the point I was trying to make above.
Worst case, it's a learning experience. Even if all you learnt is "I hate fasting"
Good luck, I will be cheering you on from my depth of experience. 🤨
Subtle_badger16Kg IF 72hrs
Any thoughts on snacks to take in case you have to break your fast? Tomorrow I am going on a cycle ride, so if I suffer ill effects that might make me unsafe, I will eat something. As most snacks available to buy are high carb, I will pack something. Probably the same thing I used to bring when I started IF - an egg, a slice of cheese and a handful of olives, but I welcome any alternative ideas.
Those sound good. Cashew nuts? Or are you usually lower carb than that?
I didn't have any cashews, so couldn't add them. I do have some nuts, should have brought them
Except I didn't need to break into my cache. I have fasted for 47 hours!
Subtle_badger16Kg IF 72hrs
Good luck tomorrow, everyone. Sorry I started early, but I am glad I did. I needed to fast-off an overload of carbs and calories.
I found this on my YouTube feed:
(Megan is Jason Fung's business partner in The Fasting Method)
The hints are (spoiler warning)
1) Eat a home cooked meal with low carbs, no alcohol before your fast
2) Soak in an Epsom salt bath or soak your feet in Epsom salts to up your magnesium. This seems a little BS to me, but lots of keto folk seem to believe you can absorb magnesium through the skin. But I still have some Epsom salts. I suggest not doing this before the fast, but during. An nice luxurious bath could fill the void of a missing meal or distract from hunger.
3) As you normally get most of fluids from food, set an alarm on your phone to remind you to drink every few hours. I didn't need to do this, my thirst was raging so I drank plenty.
If anyone in the UK wants Epsom salts, boots has them for £2.50/kg boots.com/westlab-pure-mine...
They also have Himalayan pink salt for the same price. It's sold for bathing, but it claims it's food quality on the label. It's so cheap, I think I have to buy some!
Hi ... I’m getting my fast underway now. Finished my meal at 7.30pm... will check in tomorrow morning. Anyone else starting a longer fast this evening? I’m hoping to fast for 36 hours, but won’t push it if I start to feel wobbly.
Hope you’re all having a good start to the week!
Cool. 36 hours is a great start.
Please post as often as you care to in the next 36 hours. It's very doable, but I would love to give you some support.
I am poised like a momma bear.
(Yeah, I was a cub 2 days ago. Let's ignore that!)
Oh! I've got my new badge!!!!
That’s a super new badge!!!
I really enjoyed reading your update on how your fast went. Sounded reviving!
Sorry, I should have said!
StoozieAdministrator
Morning all. How's it going? Have we heard from OilpainterUS ?
Cheering us all on!
Is everything OK OilpainterUS ? We miss you!
I missed this post. So sweet are you both.
StoozieAdministrator
my mini update. I am nearly 15 hrs in and feeling fine so far, which I should be because anything up to 20 hrs is very normal for me!
I have a gentle walk planned with a friend and her twin babies, which should distract me.
Catch up with you in a bit!
I hope the babies aren't so cute you could just eat them up!
Have a good day!
😂😂😂
Morning morning! Hope you have a lovely walk Stoozie. It’s beautiful winter sunshine here right now - I hope to get away from my desk for a short run at some point.
My last meal yesterday was LCHF, avocado, olives, cheese, nuts with some cold meat and veggies. It’ll probably carry me easily through til late afternoon today. That’s when I’m expecting to start debating with myself if I can make it beyond 24 hours or not! 😂 I’ll be thrilled if I do make it to 36 hours.
Generally I found my way to IF for weight loss reasons, but am very interested in the autophagy side of things as well .
Wishing a good day to everyone!
That's how I did mine: 6 hours at a time! You will suffer some hunger in the next 15 or so hours, so be prepared with hot drinks or whatever gets you through!
Work on your sleep hygiene. Make sure you cut caffeine midafternoon and no screens etc. I did none of that, and suffered.
How did you feel after breaking your fast? ....That’s a good reminder thanks - I do often forget to stop caffeine in the afternoon. Sleep quality is a little out of my hands these days... noisy OH, and our LO has frequent disturbed nights. BUT last night was bliss!!! Great night’s sleep for all. Doesn’t happen often!
👍 for sleep.
I just posted an update on my refeed
I hope your run goes well Cosmo501
Remember to stay hydrated!x
Oh boy... thanks for the reminder! Have had nothing but the one black coffee this morning. Better take a 'lunch' break now and get away from this horrid computer screen! No thoughts of food so far thank goodness.
Maybe take the advice from Megan and set a reminder on your phone every couple of hours. There are even purpose made apps.
Oh, another thing I noticed. Liquid goes through you much more quickly when you stomach is empty, so beware of that!
Thinking about this logically, I guess if drinks are not being required for digestion, or (sorry for TMI) stool hydration or solution of water soluble vitamins/minerals etc, then it will be discarded quicker.
Interesting thought Subtle_badger - thanks!
It was very noticeable with my riding buddy. Normally she takes a comfort break at every opportunity, and I rarely do. On Sunday, she had to wait for me to get out of the restroom.
Thanks! Will do xx
Am following S11m 's lead too... having some pink himalayan salt in my water.
Hmmm. I haven't got any pink salt. Shall I maybe try a smidge of regular salt?
Yes. Sea salt or Lite Salt would be better, but if you only have sodium chloride, use that.
Insulin holds salt, so when you re insulin drops your body with lose salt. You need to replace it. Sea and Lite salt are better, because they contain other minerals that you may also need.
PS, did you see my note that you can get a kg of food grade pink himalayan salt in the bath section of Boots for £2.49? I wanted to avoid things that come from Pakistani salt mines (nothing about that sounds good), but I am tempted.
That's a great price! I will try to be more organised for my next one.
It's on offer. Normally 4.99, which is still super cheap compared to supermarket prices.
Currently I am using Cornish sea salt and Lite salt (for potassium). Also table salt.
I was low sodium and low fat 6 months ago. 🤪
It's amazing, the headshift isn't it? I've started saving the fat off sausages and other meats to fry an egg or 2 in. All my life I've been scared of fat. Which is sad really, as our bodies need it.
I do also think some of this is a feminist/gender issue, to coin Erbach's phrase. I am not sure that my male counterparts have accepted the food rules in quite the same way.
"I am not sure that my male counterparts have accepted the food rules in quite the same way"
¿Are we males less open to "new" ideas?
That's possibly true. I think men don't visit doctors as much and don't take their advice as often. While this may put them ahead in this example, in toto it's one of the reasons women live longer than men.
Present company excepted 😁
StoozieAdministrator
Update: 19.5 hrs in and all fine.
My walk was lovely, and I managed not to eat the twin babies
StoozieAdministrator
I realise my likely hardest point will be tonight while I prepare my sons' dinners. I think I need to make the prep as low key as possible, probably pasta.
I am relaxing and watching TV for a bit first but being careful not to watch cookery shows!
Yes, that's going to be hard. I could resist food behind a counter or in the fridge, but in my hands? I don't know.
The only prep I trusted myself to do while fasting was marinating pork. I was pretty confident in my ability not to gnaw on a raw chop.
StoozieAdministrator
Another observation from today, in case anyone stumbles on this post later on.
I'm noticing I am needing to reset my usual relationship with my fit watch (a Garmin, but I think this would be true of most).
I have become so used to it letting me know the calorie burn of various mini activities, that without really realising, I have been seeing this as a saving for an accumulated food reward.
Eg ' oh the school run was 110 calories, maybe I will have a glass of wine later', even though I don't count calories in that way anymore.
Because I'm not intending to eat til at least tomorrow, I am finding a need to mentally reply to the watch notifications in a different way. Eg 'thanks but I just enjoyed getting out and seeing the daffodils'. Etc.
A healthier mindset, really.
I'm glad I use Google Fit. It's primary means of communicating with the user are "move minutes" and "heart points", so it does not drive you to that mindset.
Cronometer (like MFP) does. If you connect to an activity tracker, it calculates your calorie allowance including you calories burnt. It seems really unhealthily. The 2nd law of thermodynamics is so embedded in their mentality that they honestly believe it does not promote any particular diet.
S11mVolunteer 70lb IF20
On the first day - I broke my fast...
I knew that there would be coffee and cake at the meeting - but I left the cake and poured myself a black coffee, and then, without thinking I poured milk into it. I could not give it away, and I did not want to discard it, as the coffee pot was nearly empty - so I drank it.
Ah. So what did you do? Abandon, reset the clock, or continue as planned?
I continued as planned - 5cc of milk could hardly make a great deal of difference.
Subtle_badger16Kg IF 72hrs
Suggestion for either of you if you get gastric reflux or heartburn in the middle of the night, google suggested propping yourself on a couple of pillows so your head is higher than your stomach.
S11mVolunteer 70lb IF20
I normally go for a long walk on day one of a fast - but it was wet.
It is wet now - but it will clear up soon, so I will get out to complete my usual 5km.
S11mVolunteer 70lb IF20
Do any of you notice feeling "hangry" (hungry and angry), or less-than-normally-tolerant?
If you recognise this symptom in yourself...
-try not to react to frustration
-eat a snack if you have to
Feeling quite calm and relaxed so far, thankfully!.. hope you enjoyed your coffee this morning. I, too, have inadvertently broken fasts previously by doing something whilst in 'autopilot mode'.
So far so good this time though.
I've been very hangry on the school run.
I will try to sit calmly and if I can't get my mood correct I won't be legalistic about my fast.
Hopefully a rest will help!
Good point. My strong feeling is that hangry should lead to serious consideration of breaking the fast - not because hanger is that serious, but it indicates your judgement may clouded and you might not make the right decision.
If you can survive by adding only a very high fat snack eg cream or coconut oil on coffee, that won't trigger insulin release, so you will still get many benefits of the fast.
I found that knowing it was a normal symptom helped me stay calm... and not say or do anything I would have regretted.
StoozieAdministrator
My mood is a bit better, mostly because Mr Stoozie is home and dealing admirably with the children
I'm almost 2 hrs more fasted than ever in my life before, and not hungry.
StoozieAdministrator
Cosmo501 have you got any plans for this evening? I intend having a pyjama and tv early night, and a bit of reading.
This thread is definitely helping. Without the accountability of it I would have had dinner.
Yes it has helped me too! I’ve just finished cooking and feeding my son, about to start doing evening meal for OH 😖 I was feeling like buckling before, and thought about this thread, and didn’t nibble! Haven’t actually felt real hunger yet thankfully, but I did feel wobbly when I stood up too quickly.
I think I’ll try to keep busy round the house, just boring but necessary things like laundry... then hopefully an early night!
How are you feeling?
StoozieAdministrator
37hrs and 10 mins done. Longest ever before was 24hrs.
Still not hungry!
👏 👏 👏
I assume you slept well well?
How are you doing, Cosmo501
Oh! If my maths is right, Cosmo501 has just hit the 36 goal, assuming there was no midnight feast 😂 😋
This is crazy! Wish I’d discovered fasting years ago... 36 hours and 10 minutes now . I’m just going to keep fasting now, as I’m not hungry at this point. I’m amazed I’ve been able to get this far. So pleased. Already noticing some positive physical differences too.
Had a few tummy grumbles in middle of the night but nothing to keep me awake.
Had only just squeaked over 24 hours before.
How did your stomach/weight settle down afterwards Subtle_badger ?
This is brilliant! So pleased/proud. Do you have a new goal?
Tummy has settled. As has weight. 71.3kg on my last fast day, when I was dehydrated and colon was close to empty. 72/72.1 yesterday and today, and I pigged out last night.
My weight had been bouncing around 74kg (going as high as 75 and down to 72.5) since mid-January, so this is progress.
(some of the bouncing may be due to my dying scales)
Oh that sounds great! Glad to hear tummy is fine, and that’s great you’ve had a breakthrough on the scales!
I’m not sure about a new goal. I’d be thrilled to extend it further- maybe aim for 48 hours.
Bit nervous that the keto sticks are so dark, but I guess that’s what they’re going to be like if I’m fasting for longer?!
Oh, interesting, I had not thought to try a ketostick. Will dig them out
Momma bear mode:
I think high ketones are fine, even expected. You liver will be producing some glucose, but most of what you are living on is ketones.
But I googled non-diabetic ketoacidosis. It's a thing. Apparently mostly amongst the starving and withdrawing alcoholics, so it's possible but extremely rare. It's rare enough to warrant case studies of a single patient.
It's when your ketones and blood sugar are both high turning your blood acidic (see Alien for more info on acid blood 😁), which is unlikely for someone with a healthy pancreas and no dietary sources of glucose (not a doctor!). Have a glance at the list of symptoms
*Excessive thirst
*Frequent urination
*Nausea and vomiting
*Abdominal pain
*Weakness or fatigue
*Shortness of breath
*Fruity-scented breath
*Confusion
*Passing out
(they are actually for diabetic ketoacidosis, I assume non-diabetic is the same)
Worth keeping an eye on. If you are worried, call 111.
I don't do ketostix, so I have no idea what my ketones were doing. I was thirstier and more frequently urinating, but not to the point I would have thought it could be pathological.
The lesson from googling is to keep your fluids and electrolytes coming in.
All very important information!... often before when I’ve been in strong ketosis, usually when running during a keto phase, my head would feel a bit buzzy. This time I’m taking it easy, and feels all very very normal and comfortable. Really feels like another breakthrough. It took me most of last year to be comfortably fat adapted (which to me meant that I could run and exercise without feeling lethargic whilst remaining keto or LCHF)... and now this is the first time I’ve really felt so comfortable with a longer fast.
Happy! 😊
Snap! I'm going to keep going too. I will take an emergency snack to work though (11 a.m) in case Hanger affects my performance.
Brilliant!.. how’re you feeling generally this morning ?
Maybe take a couple of tablespoons of cream to add to your coffee, if you have a small jam jar. That would feel psychologically (to me) less like breaking a fast than something you have to chew.
No cream in fridge unfortunately. Have blue top milk, which I will take in a little bottle, thanks
StoozieAdministrator
I haven't had any salt yet, and am almost at 40hrs. Should I just dissolve some regular table salt in a pint of water? If so, how much should I try?
Many thanks for any wisdom.
I'm not able to get to a Boots or Home Bargains today for pink salt, unfortunately.
I just followed S11m and dissolved a small teaspoon of salt. I dissolved it in warm water, then poured sparkling water on top into a large pint glass. Drank it throughout the day. Actually tasted great, even though it lost its sparkle after a while. It stopped me feeling hungry a couple of times.
Thanks! I just tried 4g of salt dissolved in 200ml of water but it was vile so I tipped it into a pint glass and topped up with more water and now it's quite nice.
Sounds like you have got it sorted.
I don't know the amounts, but I was just googling ketoacidosis and the emergency room treatment is fluids by mouth or intravenously, insulin and electrolyte replacement.
That says to me (assuming you have a healthy pancreas) that water and salts are very important when fasting.
I watched a YouTube video of a naturopath (that I eventually turned off when she started talking about vaccines) but something she said made sense: our blood is seawater. I think that must be true. In our earliest ancestors, our body fluids would have been actual seawater, so it makes sense that is the basis of our blood. So taking salt which has been stripped of all of the minerals but one is crazy. I went out the next day and bought seasalt.
Pink salt is similar, but from a different source with different minerals. There is a lot of voodoo around Himalayan salt at the moment, but I am pretty sure Maldon would have similar benefits.
StoozieAdministrator
Just to say in case anyone digs this post out in a few months and is interested in any side information, I posted my 41hr keto stick readings here: healthunlocked.com/fasting-...
StoozieAdministrator
My observation is that I am not yet in super-strong ketosis, which is fine. My last meal did contain a banana because I was trying to have a mini potassium boost before I began. I had it with double cream to help satiety.
S11mVolunteer 70lb IF20
50 hours in, as usual, I felt a little deflated after a 5km walk.
At 68 hour I felt that I could go on forever.
Heading towards 42 hours now. I was considering breaking my fast before because I felt like I was enjoying it too much and focusing on it too much!! 😆 So actually, instead, I'm going to stop procrastinating, and stop just surfing around on the forum here, and get on with my work! I'll carry on fasting until I feel hungry. At the moment i'm enjoying a cup of sparkling water with some pink salt dissolved into it.
StoozieAdministrator
I'm at 44h 15mins. Still feeling fine. Cosmo501 do you intend to try to skip dinner tonight?
I have to make a birthday cake for my son, which I think will be a big challenge.
StoozieAdministrator
I was reflecting as I walked back from work, how much this is teaching me about my relationship with food.
I notice I am having interesting inward conversations with myself:
1 me: But I have to have tea. There's good food in the fridge that won't keep and I'll have to throw it out.
Other me: No. I am not a bin. And if my body is hungry it will ask.
Similar solitary conversations going on here. I catch myself thinking about breaking my fast... planning it... then just not fancying it. Actually my main concern at the moment is that I’m not being at all productive work wise! Not feeling hungry yet.
I doubt I’ll make it beyond a few more hours, but then, I don’t know why I think that.
Ok. I’ll commit to it. I’ll aim for the next 6 hours too, and then see what happens.
Right, I really must get on with work!.. I’ll check in again later.
Hope the cake baking goes well!! Some things really are important to be enjoyed, and baking your son’s birthday cake is definitely one of those things. Enjoy! 😊
It’s y’all in your head, this is what I tell my wife, once you start to think about eating, your doomed, as I said before, I do this fasting every week from mon Eve-wed 2pm but now & again my wife joins in & likes to do 2 days but she’s just told me she’s eating lol
Asked me if I was eating, NO I said, might eat tomorrow, it’s so easy to say yes, I need to lose around 10 pounds, don’t want to be going into a 34 waist!
Well done to all you first timers, gets easier as you go along, honest!
I am happy with a 37.5 inch waist (That is half my height.)
If you feel good then no problem but I don’t, 3 years back I was close to 200 pounds!
Started the fasting & got down to 159, that’s what I weighed in my 20s, even got into some one piece motorcycle leathers I last had on in 1975!
Still fast every week & still not eaten since Monday 8pm
My son used to call me “The waste disposal unit”!
And now you are our resident 'waist disposal unit' 
Sorry my poor puns are out in force today.
StoozieAdministrator
Unpacked the Asda order without drooling and caving.
Next up, cake-making. I think I'm going to wait til 2pm so it feels 'after lunch o'clock' so I'm not tempted to lick the bowl.
That's some next level Zen thinking right there. I didn't know it was possible to bake a cake without licking the bowl, fast or not.
Are you a 🧙♂️?
Help, advice please! ... Stoozie Subtle_badger S11m I’m feeling a bit silly now... I’m really keen to break my fast now... (43 hours yay!!) BUT the natural yoghurt I planned to eat has magically been finished by A.N.Other, and I hadn’t realised. I’m not keen to eat the fruit yoghurt, although maybe it’s ok? Yeo valley organic live yoghurt?... but actually I really feel like a small cheese omelette. Would an omelette be a bad thing to eat at this point? Feel silly asking. I realise now I never really thought I would make it past 24 hours...
Not a doctor 😷 but...
Trust your body. If it says it wants an omelette, the give it one. I think small and simple. Then wait a bit and see what it asks for next.
Diet doc says eggs are bad. On a list that includes alcohol.
dietdoctor.com/intermittent...
Oops, misread that. Diet doctor thinks eggs are problematic.. Sorry.
Diet doctor suggests low starch veggies cooked in oil with a small portion of chicken or fish.
But if I wanted an omelette, I think I would have one.
Oh, I do want an omelette.
Brilliant link, thank you! Before I read it, I ate 2 Brazil nuts. Oh dear... I’ve done it all wrong 🤣
I think soup would be good, even tinned which are usually too high in salt for my tastes. Cream of chicken for example, if you can find one that is made with real cream
Healthline thinks nuts are a good way to break a fast.
Well done!
You must feel so proud of yourself!
Thank you! I wouldn’t have persevered without all this wonderful support!
Cosmo501 would you like a badge? If so is 43 hrs correct? So chuffed for you!
Lol!! I just checked my zero App timer, and I ate 2 Brazil nuts at the 44 hour mark. Haven’t eaten anything more yet because I felt a little unwell all of a sudden! Do I qualify for a badge though?! It would be lovely if I do! 😍
I knew I forgot something! Well done Cosmo501
🎉 🥂 🎇 🏆
Thank you!!! Really grateful for all your support! How are you getting on?
Body back to normal, thank you.
BTW, as reported, I had a reaction to the yogurt. It might not be a perfect fast breaker for me.
Though maybe better than Brazil nuts.
Keep us apprised of your progress.
StoozieAdministrator
I've decided to stop at 48hrs today and have supper with my children.
Physically I feel I could continue, and would love to join in with the next group fast.
My decision is mainly that I have a cardio class tonight that I usually attend with my Sister-in -law, and I've already walked 8 miles today just doing life stuff. So I think it might be a bit much to push for longer at this point.
Sounds like a well balanced decision! Glad to hear you’re feeling well and positive.
I can’t remember whether you do longer fasts often or not? 48 hours is a great achievement!
Knowing when to stop is difficult. That seems sound reasoning.
Does this mean I win? Obviously S11m is playing in a different league.
🤣
😂🤣😂 you definitely win!!! That reminds me.. My wee boy is in a phase at the moment of wanting to win EVERYTHING!! Even just walking to the shop. “Did I win Mummeeeeee??” 🤣
By the way, how did you get on with the birthday cake?... did your son give you any special requests?
It's supposed to have an Alex Rider Spy theme, and the base is a huge slab of chocolate brownie. This thread totally helped me not lick the bowl, jug and all the utensils!
🧙♀️ 🔥
Phew. Feeling better now. Was feeling quite ropey for about an hour. I’ve had a nice hot cup of bouillon and an avocado. That will do for now!
StoozieAdministrator
I am very pleased that at 48 hrs I doubled my previous longest fasts.
Thanks so much everyone for a great experiment. I enjoyed it immensely and would love to do it again.
Fantastic! Well done! Can you give yourself an extra badge now too?!
I really enjoyed it too. Definitely up for it again.
Hope you sleep well tonight!
Well done! How are you feeling now, and how did you break your fast?
I agree with Cosmo501 you need to craft an Administrator/Fasting badge for yourself.
Subtle_badger16Kg IF 72hrs
Oh! I just had a thought:
If we are going to do this regularly, first Monday of the month, after dinner, local time.
Or better maybe, first Sunday, after dinner, so the fast starts on Monday morning.
What do we think?
🤔 💭 🍲 🍷
I'm in favour of first Sunday of the month. (Will Easter make this tricky for anyone?) Shall I start a new thread to see if there's general interest? This one will have fallen off the front page for members who haven't had notifications. </thinkingaloud>
Easter is not the first Sunday of the month
Fasting for mental accuity clearly not helping in my case! Thanks
😂 😂 😂
Yeah. Start a new thread. No one is going to plow through all this if they haven't been on the journey. I think plenty of notice will be required, especially for those starting their first fast.
(I will argue again for a safe place rule)
Edit: ah! I see you already started it.
S11mVolunteer 70lb IF20
Did anyone make it overnight?
I felt a little deflated at 50 hours, but at 68 hours (Sunday morning) I felt I could have gone on forever - but I broke my fast with live full-fat yoghurt as planned.
I didn't. 48hrs was double my best so far. But I would love to join in another time and aim for 60+ hours
No, I ended my fast at 44 hours as I suddenly started to feel not so good. I’ve a feeling somehow I was a little dehydrated or not enough electrolytes... Felt better as soon as I had a cup of bouillon.
Did you consider taking bouillon during your fast? Jason Fung is a real proponent of bone broth during a fast. I had several cups over my 62 hours.
How are your feeling today?
Hi Subtle_badger and Stoozie Feeling great today thanks. No ill effects at all, and a good night’s sleep. .. yesterday I finished at the 44 hour point because I suddenly felt really woozy, almost breathless, too. I lay on the floor for a few minutes— but came right quickly. I had planned to have bouillon during the fast if I was finding it difficult with just water and black coffee- but because it was going so well, I just didn’t think about having it! I think next time I’ll just have it regardless. Will make sure I have some broth in the house too.
I didn’t end up having a full meal last night, just a few small snacks, then fasted again for 18 hours over night... have just had a small meal now.
Really really pleased with how the longer fast went.
Oh, that's exciting! Sounds like you nearly fainted. Glad you didn't.
Yeah, I dosed myself with soup. Took some in the morning before leaving the house, and had some at dinner time. I didn't notice any immediate bump from it, but it might have kept my fluid and electrolytes up.
StoozieAdministrator
Did you feel woozy, or other symptoms? Glad the bouillon helped.
62 hrs & counting, wife’s trying to sabotage me, just waked in with cooked chicken & baguette!
Stay strong Nugger ! You can do this, we believe in you!
Cheers Stoozie, 3 days as of now 7.35pm , think I’ll eat tomorrow lunch, as I do get a little light headed when I first stand but am wanting to get on my bike Saturday & ride down to Daytona bike week, wife nags at me too lol
So be a total of around 90hrs & back to my weekly 40 hr fast on Monday again!
What is your goal this time?
(heads to the shops to buy 🐔 ➕ 🥖 = 😋 )
Don’t have a goal, I’ll start thinking of eating & the next thing you know I’ll be making a salad lol
Ok 2.30pm about to have a chicken sandwich & a cuppa for Breakfast!
Wow! I have been reading all your posts - incredible what you all achieved? At the risk of getting a black from one or all of you, when are you planning the next one????
The first sunday of the month, I'll tag you in the post
Gulp!!! Ok thanks I think!
Delighted to read this and bravo to all of you! Apologies for not being here, I had an accident in my home and was taken to the trauma center. I am still dealing with the repercussions-which is why I haven't been here- but hope to join you every month.
Really well done! 👏👏👏
OMG! I saw that you had re-appeared, and thought "good, she's OK" seems that is not quite true.
Well, I am glad you are still able to chat to us, and I hope you make a full recovery soon.
I won't ask any questions, but am interested in any further details you want to share.
don't start fasting until you are in the right place physically and mentally.
glad to have you back!
You are so lovely, Subtle_badger. Thank you.
I really missed being here and reading all your posts.
I will share about my event when I'm a little more fortified. I am also being seen by a top doc in related events at Mayo, for which I am truly grateful. I'm still a bit gobsmacked (as you say).
Oh so sorry to hear of your accident 😟 I really hope you get well soon and we’re pleased to see you here again 😀
So kind, Sheperdess! Thank you for your very kind words.
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