13/07/2025
Dry vs Water fast? Contact me for the benefits of each! Hang in there, those of you in the Jewish world who are dry fasting todayShavua Tov, all! I hope you are doing well if you are fasting. BH, we don't have many more hours left! I am using today as an opportunity to kick off a water fast starting tonight at 830pm. I won't be doing my usual 72-hour water fast, because the first 24 is a "Dry Fast". I will stop the fast on Tuesday night at 830 pm- I will have fasted dry for 24 hours, and I'll do a water and liquids only fast for 48 hours afterwards. The primary difference between dry fasting and water fasting lies in the restriction of fluids. In water fasting, you abstain from food but consume water, while dry fasting restricts both food and all liquids, including water. Water Fasting:
Involves abstaining from food but allowing water consumption along with other liquids like plain coffees and teas and no sugar added mineral supplement drinks
Typically involves drinking 2-3 liters of water per day.
It can be done for a limited duration (e.g., 24-72 hours).
It may be safer than dry fasting due to hydration. ( many of us have no choice on our fast days LOL)
Dry Fasting: (like today's fast, Tisha B'Av, and Yom Kippur)
Involves abstaining from both food and all liquids, including water.
It may be done with intermittent fasting methods, and also be more intense than water fasting.
Some argue it can lead to faster weight loss and potentially greater metabolic benefits.
Requires careful consideration of potential risks like dehydration, headaches, and muscle pain.
Mindy Pelz has discussed the potential benefits of dry fasting, such as decreased blood glucose levels and increased insulin sensitivity, especially when combined with a ketogenic diet. She also notes the potential impact on bone health.
Important Considerations:
Both types of fasting should be approached with caution and ideally under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Dry fasting is generally considered more extreme and carries a higher risk of dehydration and other complications. It is important to emphasize the importance of understanding individual needs and metabolic status before undertaking any type of fasting. Those who fast for religious purposes should prepare well in advance of a fast and also discuss with your LOR (local Orthodox Rabbi) to see if you must take any extra precautions or if there are any exceptions! I am doing this fast alone, but the next group 72-hour water fast will be in mid-August. If you want to join me, let me know!!