Good afternoon, all. I’m home from work finally and relaxing on the couch. After another long night of sleep, I woke up, arrived at work, and was immediately told I was “out of it”… and I was. I couldn’t pull myself together for any more than a few minutes, and before long, I was physically exhausted again. This isn’t supposed to happen.
I was extremely thankful for random text messages throughout the day reminding me I have you all praying for me, for my health, and for wisdom regarding this fast; but the day didn’t get any easier. I just wanted sit down. I just wanted to sleep. That’s not like me (except when I had mono.)
The decision has been made that I am must start to add some more nutrients into my diet than the clear liquid. I have to say, I’m really bummed. I’ve started so many things in my life and have not-finished a lot of the dreams I’ve made for myself. This sorta feels like that all over again. However, I know I really have no choice unless I want to end up hurting myself instead of helping myself heal.
So, this afternoon, at work, I had about 2 oz. of 2% milk. Why milk first? These past two weeks, I have been dairy-free; so, in order to ensure I wouldn’t be bothered by it, I wanted to try that first. With dairy back in my diet, I’ll be able to have cream-based soups and still keep things light for a while as I ever-so-gently ease food back into my system.
When I got home, I warmed up some puréed carrot pulp soup. Did you just tilt your head in confusion? 🙂 Last night, I juiced some carrots. What is left over after juicing carrots is a fine shaved pulp. I took that pulp, added a few cups of water, a chicken bouillon cube, and some pepper and rosemary to flavor. After cooking it down for a good 30 min, I put it all in the blender and puréed it even more.
Today, I warmed up some of that purée, mixed in a small dollop of sour cream for a creamy, cooling affect, and voíla, a savory soup that is easy to digest, a nice change from juices, and “hearty” compared to what I’ve had for the last 15 1/2 days. Of course, I only ate about a cup of it in order to avoid overdoing it.
I’m still tired, but my stomach is at rest.
Please continue to pray for me as I adjust to some “heartier” options and yet hold myself off from devouring everything and making myself sick.
Hey Ashley,
Thanks for the post update on how you’re doing. I am glad to hear you are making a decision to try to add calories/nutrients back into your system. I have done a 7-10 day fast before (Colon Cleanse), and whereas you do feel “alive” and “energetic” getting rid of waste, weight, etc….I vowed never to do it again, but instead to continue to maintain a healthy diet. Esp being someone that works out regularly, as much as I want at times to “fast” to clean up my colon or lose a little weight, I don’t think it’s wise. I remember going through much of the same symptoms you’ve been going through….tired, lethargic, lazy, sleepy, etc…..and I guess it goes to show that God gave food to our bodies to keep us functioning, running well, preventing illness, etc. I guess having gone through a fast has helped me to realize the incredible importance food–healthy food–plays in our physical and emotional well-being. I guess I love food too much to go without…but kudos to you for lasting as long as you did!
If nothing else, you appreciate food more (taste, smell, etc)! How are you and Adam doing?
Praying! it’s amazing you’ve made it this far. I’ve only ever done 10 days of clear liquids and I find that by day 7 I need someone else to drive, and I sleep all the time! Don’t feel guilty. This is about your relationship with God, right? Not about a physical challenge.