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Nicotine/Supplements during extended water fasts

Hi all, So I've lived a generally extremely unhealthy lifestyle for the past few years. Went from being extremely fit, with low body fat, didn't smoke, etc. to now where I am overweight, smoke both cigarettes and vape, and am so unfit that I'm out of breath after climbing up a few stairs. I'm looking to change up my lifestyle, one thing at a time, and the first thing is my weight, general health, and some sort of discipline. So I've decided to do an extended water fast, not sure exactly how long it'll be but likely more than a week. My question concerns my other unhealthy habits. Is it okay to vape (can give up cigarettes) during the fast? As I said, one thing at a time and I think if I were to try and go cold turkey on everything I would relapse instantly. Another thing I've been taking that is more on the healthy side are some vitamin c pills and vitamin d oils. Should I avoid taking supplements such as these? I'm about 24 hrs in and it's not too bad so far, looking forward to the results, and hopefully your replies!

Answer

Maybe not the advice you are wanting, but a week long extended water fast is not a first step. I would recommend 16-20 hour daily fasts to get used to the process, then move into rolling 48s (44 hour fast, 4 hour eating window). After you get the hang of rolling 48s, bump it up to rolling 72s. After a few of those consecutively, you’ll have a better indicator of your strengths and weaknesses while fasting. These will also give you time to iron out your specific electrolyte needs.

Additionally, I vape THC throughout my fasts, and also smoke cannabis, and have seen no adverse effects (as it pertains to fasting).

As for supplements, I usually save them for my eating window, because I can’t stomach regular ones on an empty stomach, and the gentler gummy ones have too many carbs. If you can stomach them (and they don’t require food for absorption - many do), go for it.

Answer

Don’t hesitate to break your fast early if you start feeling unwell. As the other commenter said, maybe don’t try to jump in the deep end first. Try some OMAD and 48 hour fasts before you do a week.

The only supplement you need is electrolytes, and it becomes apparent around hour 36 that you need them if you haven’t been drinking them. My recipe these days is 1.5 parts table salt and 1 part potassium chloride (by volume, I use 1.5 tbsp and 1 tbsp to make about 2 liters of water.)

I would think nicotine sucks for a fast but have no idea. Could definitely make your light headedness worse if you’re prone to that.

In general though, get off the nicotine while you’re improving your body and habits.