Hellloooo healthy warriors!

To fast or not to fast, that is the question! Why? What’s so dang scary about not eating a meal? We’re all so attached to food for so many different reasons that the idea of skipping solids brings waves of panic and visions of hospitalization. Here’s the deal. Don’t fast without nutrition. It’s that simple. Water, maple syrup, cayenne, vinegar–THAT AIN’T nutrition. Obviously, I’m referencing a few common plans rolled into one taco.

I base my fasting protocol on what I learned during my health educator program at Hippocrates. This is what Brian Clement says in his AWESOME book, Living Foods For Optimum Health:

“Fast one day a every week, consuming only freshly squeezed green drinks, vegetable juices, purified water, herbal teas. These fasting days will allow any potential long-term toxins to be released before they can cause serious damage. It’s like changing the oil in your car BEFORE your engine fails.” (Note: I would add blended foods too – and kick in 2-4 oz of wheat grass.)

Remember, when you give your body a break from the difficult task of digesting food – especially meat, dairy & poorly combined foods -- you allow it to focus on healing and repair. Since lots of toxins are dumped into the blood stream during a fast, it’s a good idea to follow it with an enema or a colonic. Keeping the pipeline clear allows for better evacuation of that which does not serve you. If you are clogged up, the toxins will back up.

Many people do longer fasts. Common durations include one day, a week, ten days, twenty-one days and even 92 days (like our pal Philip McCluskey). I think baby steps are important. If you are interested, I would start with 1-3 days. If your health is currently weak, fasting is not recommended. Be realistic and if you have any concerns check with your doctor. Make sure you mention that you will be getting nutrients, just in liquid or blended form. Most people think that fasting = abstaining from food. CSL fasts = resting from food while still receiving optimum plant-based nutrition.

Here’s a basic sample of a fast day pour moi:

Upon rising drink 8 oz of purified water with lemon and a dash of cayenne – gets the circulation going – and lemon cleanses the liver. Drink herbal tea if you like and then get ready to juice, juice, juice!

Ingredients for the juice, juice, juice:

• Cucumber
• Sunflower and/or sweet pea sprouts
• Celery
• Broccoli stems
• Kale
• Dandelion greens

Drink as much as you like and change the menu to suit your palate. Eight 6-8 oz glasses is what works for me. At night I blend a green soup or a smoothie.

Ingredients for soup:

• 1 large avocado
• 2 cups salad greens
• Kale
• Purified water
• Scallions
• 1 tsp kelp or dulse
• 1 tsp nama shoyu or a pinch of sea salt
• 1 clove of crushed garlic
• Cayenne
• Fresh herbs – like dill, thyme, BASIL – yum!

Get creative sassy pants! Ya don’t have to follow this – make your own, what veggies do you love? If you don’t use avocado, add some EVOO or Flax oil.

Ingredients for my go-to green smoothie:

• 1 avocado
• Fresh mint
• 1 cucumber
• A bit of kale
• Coconut water (or purified)
• Stevia to taste

If you can’t get mint, try adding lime – awesome.

Happy fasting! It’s great to do it in a group, check out the Fasting Group at my.crazysexylife.com.

Peace & liquid,

Kris Carr

PS. Toss an inch of ginger in the mix too!

Kris Carr is a best-selling author, a top motivational speaker, and kick-ass wellness coach. She is the subject of the inspirational documentary, Crazy Sexy Cancer,which she wrote and directed for TLC, and the author of the award-winning Crazy Sexy Cancer book series. Kris’ third book, Crazy Sexy Diet redefines healthy living as we know it. Crazy Sexy Diet is the ultimate diet and lifestyle game plan for wellness warriors seeking peak health, spiritual wealth and happiness. Carr regularly lectures at medical schools, hospitals, wellness centers, and universities such as Harvard. Television appearances include: The CBS Evening News with Katie Couric, The Early Show, Today Show, Access Hollywood, Good Morning America and The Oprah Winfrey Show. Check out her website, crazysexylife.com for daily tips, articles and inspiration. Make juice not war!