Should I do a 10 day fast?

In the last year, I lost a lot of weight through keto and OMAD. I threw in a few extended fasts now and then (48 hours) but I haven't really fasted longer than that. In the last couple of months, due to both mental and physical health issues, I've been struggling with binge eating (I'm trying to address the mental aspect of this as well), and I've put on a lot of weight again. I've been trying to do OMAD and get back into keto, but the issues are making it hard for me. I desperately need a reset. I need to do something drastic that will not only help me physically to lose a little weight and feel better, but also help me with the mental toughness aspect. I need to feel like I can accomplish things. Something like a 10 day water fast. Now, I've never actually done anything like this. Even on my 48 hour fasts, the second day is quite hard for me. I get hazy mentally and start feeling weak. I have a lot of work to get done (it requires serious mental acuity) so I can't afford the mental fog. I'd just like some advice on whether I should try for a longer fast, even if it's for the feeling of accomplishment. I've heard that the fog should go away after day 2, but what can I do to ensure that? Also, can I exercise during this time? TL;DR - Mental problems have led to serious weight gain, not able to get back to keto+OMAD. Should I do a long fast for reset + sense of accomplishment?

Answer

I wouldn’t jump right into a 10 day water only fast if you’ve only done 48 hours in the past, but if you do it right you can certainly try it! There are going to be feelings of fog, or maybe insomnia, or a whole other variety of symptoms around days 2-4; or potentially longer because your body just isn’t used to having no calories. Things that will make it easier is to eat keto for several days in a row prior to starting the fast. You don’t need electrolytes until day 2-3, but you NEED them when you’re not taking in any calories. They should help you feel perfectly hydrated through the 10 days and you shouldn’t be dizzy ever to the point it worries you. Idk how big you are weight wise, but all you really need to do is keep yourself hydrated and ten days can certainly be done safely. I’ve only fasted for 8 days and 12 hours in the past but I experienced insomnia at times, and of course your brain fog should lift and it will, and you’ll actually gain mental clarity whilst hunger goes. Just be smart. Listen to your body. Hydrate effectively.

Answer

I second not jumping straight into 10 days. I started omad, then did some 3-5 dayers before going for 7-8 day fasts. I also eat keto/carnivore, it makes fasts much, much easier. I’d advise starting with a 5 day fast first… and if you feel you can continue after the 5 days are up then great! Make sure to keep on top of the electrolytes and fluid after 2-3 days, and I know many don’t take vitamins and minerals, but on longer fasts I do, I have children to take care of so better safe than sorry for me. Good luck whatever you decide! :)