A Simple Fast Could Help Your Heart

In a recent article on AOL, a study reports that fasting for one day a month could help alleviate some heart problems. The study, based in Utah, found that people who skipped meals once a month were about 40% less likely to be diagnosed with clogged arteries than those who did not regularly fast.

The regular fast that was studied was based on the Mormon tradition of fasting the first Sunday of each month. The researches believe that the fast forces the body to dip into fat reserves to burn calories. The fast also gives the body a break from being constantly exposed to sugar and having to make insulin to metabolize it.

For many years the holistic tradition suggests fasting as a way to cleanse the body.
In her book, Holistic Living Guide and Journal : 180 Days of Healthy Living, Stephanie Richards, ND recommends a fast of 1-3. After preparing the body for a few days before she suggest drinking only the following during the fast:
- Purified water
- Organic green tea
- Diluted (50/50) organic fruit and vegetable juices ( no orange or tomato)
- Vegetable broth- 3 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 2 beets, 2 heads of cabbage, 1/4 clove garlic, onion and turnip
- Dandelion tea ( detox herb)
- Milk thistle herb ( a good detox herb)

Her site has a variety of information and useful tools as well.