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The idea of fasting contains clearly rational elements associated with healthy eating and purification of the body. Similar periods of restrictions are present in the traditions of many nations and religions around the world. According to modern dietology, Orthodox fasts are a reasonably organized system based on the annual cycle. The positive aspects of fasting should be used wisely. Fasting should not last long. It is not recommended in early childhood and in the case of some gastrointestinal diseases. In order not to exhaust the body too much during the long fasting before Christmas and Easter, the Church permits the consumption of fish on some days. In addition, every fast ends with a feast at which the more abundant and varied food restores and strengthens the body.

Modern medicine recommends successive consumption of meatless and meat dishes, because it recognizes the benefits to the human body, both from fasting and consumption of milk, cheese, eggs, meat, which provide the body with amino acids. The benefits from the proper and careful fasting are many too and are as follows: increased consumption of vegetables and fruits (rich in pectin, cellulose and antioxidants) helps the release of toxins, it relieves the activity of the digestive tract, of the endocrine and cardiovascular system, reduces the levels of bad cholesterol and increases metabolism.

Fasting stimulates the immune system, improves sleep and the activity of the senses, and improves memory. It is common that the consumption of meatless dishes is recommended in the case of cardiovascular and pulmonary health problems.

The typical salt-free food has an excellent impact on the urinary system and kidneys. It is possible to lose weight during fasting, depending on the diet.

Nutritionists see risks of fasting only if it is observed for a long time. Despite their exclusion from the diet during fasting the importance of meat and milk should not be underestimated. The absence of animal proteins deprives the body of essential amino acids, iron and calcium. It is known that plant-based proteins are not as complete as animal-based proteins, and iron and calcium in food of plant origin are contained in compounds that the body cannot assimilate. Plants lack the B12 vitamin, which is important for haematopoiesis. So, only perfectly healthy people should observe the long fasts before Easter and Christmas. Young children, adolescents, old people, pregnant and nursing women, the chronically ill and those suffering from severe diseases should not fast.

How to supply the body with protein while fasting?

The proteins of animal-based foods contain more indispensable (essential) amino acids than those of food of plant origin and are therefore often preferred for use. However, while fasting, it is good to remember that there is a way to take all the necessary proteins without resorting to the consumption of animal-based food. You can substitute meat with products that will supply your body with proteins from another origin, namely legumes - beans, peas, lentils. They are the best substitute as they have a high protein content. Bread is also a source of proteins as well as soy, which is the ingredient of various semi-finished products. The most popular soy products are soy cheese - tofu, soymilk, sprouts, soya mince. Rice, bulgur/wheat, mushrooms, chickpeas, avocado, all kinds of sprouts, and nuts such as walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pumpkin and sunflower seeds can be used as substitutes as well. The variety is great, and hence the possible combinations and recipes. Sprouted seeds can be found in dietary shops but you can prepare your own at home, as they are very important during this period, because they supply your body with larger quantities of group B vitamins.

All this means that food of plant origin can supply the body with essential amino acids. During fasting there is another option for supplying your body with proteins, which you can enjoy if you cannot fully trust the variety of food of plant origin, namely, if you lack something, do not forget to eat some fish when this is allowed or to prepare a big and delicious salad with octopus and mussels.

Whether you are fasting on religious grounds or taking advantage of fasting to relieve your body, and why not to reduce your weight, the health effects are indisputable. Although I am not a believer, I would add that the element of becoming humble in terms of the world and yourself, and even forgiveness, would make fasting more significant to you. The health of the spirit is no less important than the health of the body. In addition to the “artificial” food, our daily life is full of a lot of tension and stress and you can use the time of fasting even in a more meaningful and adequate manner if taking full care of yourself.