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Capirussa (Orlando, Florida, Us) on 12/12/2010
5 out of 5 stars

Something that really helps get rid of the flu or a cold is fasting. When you feel the beginning stages of a cold, if you stop eating for a just a day you will often stop it dead in it's tracks. Drinking juice throughout the day instead of eating is another good alternative if you feel you need to get some calories in. Orange juice, preferably freshly squeezed, green juices (made by juicing fresh veggies like celery, broccoli, spinach, kale, etc. ), and other fruit juices like apple juice or mango juice are great to drink for a day or two of fasting.

If you'll be purchasing them, make sure the juices are not from concentrate and are not juice cocktails. Since I use natural remedies during colds, like cayenne pepper or grapefruit seed extract, I've had no problem taking them while fasting or juice fasting but I'm not sure if taking prescription medicines on an empty stomach is a good idea. I've taken the general over the counter stuff like tylenol with no problem, though, I still keep the dose low and don't take it as often as I would if I were eating. Also, if you've got a full blown cold already, you will likely have to fast 2-3 days to get rid of it, maybe more. If you get the chance to stop it early, usually one day will be enough.

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Replied By Organicmama (Lincoln, California) on 02/15/2011

It's never really a good idea to stop eating beacuse eating the right foods will give you the proper energy you need to fight off cold and flu symptoms. It is important, however, that you avoid starchy, processed, and deep fried foods and consume only fresh fruits and vegetables and whole organic foods, but fasting all together is never a good idea.
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Replied By Randy (Jersey City, Nj, Usa) on 02/15/2011

I respectfully disagree, organicmama. I've had great results fasting for 1-4 days on various occasions. specific to colds and flus, I occasionally lose my appetite at the beginning, and that is the cue for me to take a short fast. shortens the duration of the illness. unless there is malnutrition involved, the body has plenty of energy stores. a short fast clears out toxins and sets the body to 'reset'. additionally, nothing helps my ibs problem more.
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Replied By Julia (Spokane, Wa) on 12/23/2011

Short term fasting is an age old practice in almost every culture throughout history. If you google it, you will see countless studies documenting the therapeutic effects of fasting. Animals naturally fast when they are sick. It has resolved many of my own physical issues, including fighting viruses and germs.
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