Water Fasting

This week’s vlog is going to be pretty controversial. It’s not a call to action. I’m just sharing my experience. I never, ever would have tried this several years ago, but I’ve been doing something for the past couple of days and I wanted to share it with you. Watch this week’s vlog to learn more.

Article 1

Article 2

Article 3

Article 4

 

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Comments

  1. Melissa Kerby

    Yah! Very excited for you and look forward to your report back!

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  2. Christine

    If you feel this is a good experiment for you, Susan, I have a wish! I would love to see a “program” that was a combo of BLE and intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting (with some water fasting thrown in) is what I’ve had the most success with personally. But I need lines. Thanks, Susan!

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    1. Margo

      YES! I echo Christine’s wish! I have been doing intermittent fasting and it works very well for me. But I also need lines and social support. The 12-step groups can provide the lines and support but they don’t allow fasting. I really think there is a population of people who could be helped with a combination of BLE and intermittent fasting. Clearly not a solution for everyone, but I think there are people who could benefit. I have looked far and wide for a program that marries the principles and support of BLE/12 step with intermittent fasting and I have come up empty. I hope BLE will be able to fill this gap!

      Reply ·
    2. Valery

      Sounds good to me too! Love you Susan

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    3. Annie

      I agree. I get the best results when my lines are bright and I intermittently fast with meals at 10:00am 2:00pm and 6:00pm.

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  3. Azlina Harun

    Yeay! I fasted for many years and never really questioned if it works. I researched it in an attempt to convince my husband to try it. This part was self serving…it is challenging to fast living in a house where breakfast, lunch and dinner were cooked every day! I was surprised to find out the data. It’s awesome. Looking forward to reading about your experience. Good luck!

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  4. Eileen Lass

    Since you know Joel Fuhrman, I thought you might refer to his book, “Fasting and Eating for Health.” He is amazing!

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  5. Constance

    Susan, this is interesting but I wonder where the distinction line comes between water fasting and anorexia. Why do anorexics look so trashed if there are health benefits to long periods of time without eating? Is it mental? By that I mean if one’s spirit intends for the fast to cleansing it cleanses. If one’s spirit is the state of self abuse, the system breaks down.

    It’s unimaginable to think someone can survive a year on water, and yet I have heard this to me true. Very curious. It will be an experiment for you and hopefully your addictive nature will not become addicted to not eating now. Let us know how it goes in the long run and what happens after. Good Luck!

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    1. Jen

      This is a great question. I had the same thought.

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    2. Marcia

      I have fasted twice for 30 days each. However, I didn’t know of BLE at those times so I didn’t know how to start eating healthy and eliminating sugar or flour (I wasn’t able to control the amounts but, I didn’t realize that it was because I was ADDICTED to them), so I would gain the 25 pounds back in no time, which was so discouraging. If I do it again, I think I would do only a maximum of five days at a time. Since we are losing weight at a healthy rate with BLE, there’s no need to fast for a longer time, unless once on the maintenance program one would want to do so for health enhancing benefits. For over 40 years I have studied on my own about how to be healthy and/or to regain health and different eating plans.
      With BLE, I’ve found the eating plan that I want to follow for the rest of my life, although I may continue to tweak it as Susan does by quitting meat, fasting for a number of days, etc., whatever comes to my attention that may enhance the current lifestyle.
      My personal opinion about anorexia is that it relates more to emotional issues and an unhealthy mental state, and the person isn’t limiting their food intake to only healthy nutrient dense foods but rather perhaps only to the frosting inside an Oreo cookie.

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  6. Ana

    Today is the first day of my water fast so it is so crazy to me that this video came out today! It’s so so weird. I’m doing it because of some emotional and physical issues I’m having.

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  7. Mercedes (from Argentina)

    I remember my mother used to have a book (in Spanish) called “Healthy life through fasting” (very old). Now I´ll go to her house and look for it. This is not the moment for me, but I will try some time. But thank you for sharing your experiment!

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  8. Katie

    Susan, you are naturally beautiful, inside and out! Can’t wait to hear about your water fasting results. Thank you for all of the science/research info – I have long been a proponent of intermittent fasting. Have a wonderful trip!

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  9. Jan McCune

    I’ve had great success with 24-hour fasting , in which I eat just once a day, usually early evening. I drink plenty of water and generally swim hard each day for 30 minutes. ( I also like to walk briskly for 45 minutes, if the day permits.) I have felt just great doing this and weight comes off easily, plus I never feel stuffed or guilty and more clear-headed! I am careful to choose a high quality group of foods and to avoid refined sugars and carbs, but not to worry about the quantity for my one meal a day. It’s been a revelation to me and now I have an easy and no frills way to achieve my ideal weight and feel good. Susan is so right about hunger going away and your body feeling fine. Fasting is amazing and easy!

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  10. Diane McBane

    Periodic fasting is so beneficial for me!

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  11. cheryl coan

    Good for you Susan, I have juice fasted many times and it clears my mind so well, the digestive system will thank you. As far as an addict fasting?? well usually fasting and prayer will turn some addictions around. Just be careful that your body doesn’t start using muscle mass for food.

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  12. diana brown

    I did a 7-day water fast in July. I never thought I could go SEVEN days without food, but through a variety of sources I am drawn to, the seed was planted and eventually grew! I saw that people could go 21 – 40 days without food so my intent was 21 days… but I was satisfied to stop at seven because the one big issue was energy for me. I was just fine to sit or move about at home, but if I had to walk any distance or be on my game (like at work!), it was a challenge. Sometimes I was nervous about what I was doing because it’s easy to question whether or not how you feel is normal. Now that I experienced it, I am more confident about a second fast and will do a 7-day… maybe longer… again! Seven days can be done without a retreat: my last 3 days were weekend days so I could relax. I did not notice a physiological “revenge” – actually I craved good food and believe I experienced some healing that has remained.

    Best wishes – looking forward to your report!

    Reply ·
    1. Terez

      Did you get the result you were looking for, Diana, of increased energy? If so, has it lasted?

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      1. diana brown

        My overall health improved and it has lasted. From what I read, a lot of healing takes place once you’re past the first few days. My aches and pains stayed away and the fluid I was retaining in my legs and ankles has not returned!

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  13. Sandy

    I’m wondering if a three day fast would be a good kick start before starting the food plan. I have a hard time staying on plan due to detox and cravings. If I get the garbage out of my system and reset my system before I start the food plan then perhaps it may prove to be a good precursor. All I can do is try!!!

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  14. Angie

    This is great information, thanks, Susan! And perfect timing as I’ve been considering a water fast or a juice fast. I had looked into the True North program which looks fantastic. I also wanted to note that you mentioned there was only one location in the US that has medically supervised water fast but there is also one in Florida and one in Austin: http://www.oceanjaderetreat.com/ and http://www.drcinque.com/. I don’t know anything about either of them but just wanted to provide that as additional options for others looking into programs.

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  15. Marilyn L Kinman

    Wow!! You’re only an hour from my home!!! Have a wonderful week…so sorry about the smoke. We’ve been smoked for…2 weeks now.
    😏
    Scary!!
    💞

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  16. Debbie Baumoel

    Great Stuff! So happy you are trying this! Very curious what you report back on both a personal and scientific point of view. Thanks for always being open to new ideas!

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  17. Laurie

    It’s the cheapest way to identify food allergies or intolerance by paying attention to how each food makes you feel.

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    1. Margie

      This was what I had to do to identify the egg intolerance I had developed. My body started healing after a day of just water and the intense itching became better. I very carefully added foods back slowly. Really works.

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  18. CherBear

    Thanks, Susan! I think this is really important information that you have shared with us. I hope it’s going well for you on the fast.

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  19. John DeHart

    Welcome to Ketosis 🙂

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  20. Dr. Judith Boice

    I did water fasting once a week, for 36 – 40 hours, for over a decade. I had many healthy benefits. I stopped when I was pregnant with twins and haven’t gotten back into the rhythm (16 years ago!) I still do a water fast once a year, for 3 days, which is part of my spiritual retreat/quest each year. I also work with patients with water fasting, to stabilize blood sugar levels, for gallbladder and liver issues, before chemotherapy (specific protocols for cancer patients, to increase benefit – cellular uptake – of chemotherapy) and for some other chronic issues.

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    1. Karen

      Hooray for you, being so far ahead of the game! BLE is such a wonderful program for so many and Intermittent fasting, OMAD the very greatest for taking you to the finish line and keeping up your health. Benefits are many doing this. That is what I like about Dr Susan, her openness and speaking out her truth, no matter what. I was amazed and glad to see her vlog today, and her exploration of this subject. My question is where in the world did it originate to eat all these meals in a day? The body never has a chance to work and digest all this stuff! This has been the very easiest and most rewarding thing I have done and has saved me so much time and effort and money! Dr Jason Fung, is healing a lot of his diabetes patients with fasting. He has written the Obesity Code and a book on fasting. Recommend them highly.

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      1. Stacey

        I agree. I’ve just read Dr. Fung’s books in the last month as well. He also has some great video’s. I can’t wait to see what Dr. Susan makes of all this. I find so much value in what both of them have to say that I’m very excited to see this confluence of the two philosophies!

        Reply ·
        1. Karen

          Me too, Stacey. People have got to do something that will work and help them! People need to educate themselves as to the health benefits and how easy this is! Lots of good you tube videos available.

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      2. Kirsty

        Hi Karen, just wondering how you adapt the BLE food plan to Omar?
        Thanks

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  21. Donnable

    But you didnt tell us exactly how water fasting works!!! Is it just that, just drink water… whenever? Is there a schedule, a specified amount each time? Also how long will you do this beyond the 48 hrs? And how often is it recommened to do this and for how long each time? (I promise I will read the articles but this sounds very exciting! I’ve just come off of vacation too and though I did ok weight-wise (Shout out to BLE friend Judy wbo kept me on track!) I really would like to get rid of the bloating Im feeling as you mentioned.) Wishing you continued success and a great stay in Oregon! Cant wait for your follow up with us!

    Reply ·
    1. Bright Line Eating

      Hi there, Donnable. Good observation! 🙂 Susan didn’t share how her program works due to it being a personal experiment and not something she is advocating or encouraging for the BLE community. I imagine that she’ll share more about the process and results in the future if she finds it to be of value for Bright Line Eating members.
      I hope you had a great time on your vacations! Congratulations on staying on track, that’s not easy. Bravo! XOXO

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  22. Julie

    I’ve been tempted to do this, but I have issues with hypoglycemia, so I don’t dare. I wish you luck with this, but be careful. Look forward to hearing your results.

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  23. Micheline

    Hi Susan, Thank you for doing this experiment and for doing a Vlog on this. I can tell you that I did a semi juice fast at the end of May. I drank only 4 ounces of fresh juice by the spoon three times a day. I was in a supervised environment at a place in the Laurentians of Quebec called ”Centre Val Sante”. Before we went on a 3 day juicing fast we had to cut our protein intake and only eat vegetables and fruits a week prior to doing this and 24 hours before eat only raw vegetables and fruits. I did very well during the fast, and I am certain that this is what has allowed me to do BLE which I started in Boot Camp July 3rd and not to struggle with it.
    I met people there who were doing water fasting only and their results were remarkable, There was a woman whose breast cancer had come back and she chose to do a 21 day fasting instead of Chemo and the cancer was gone. She was there to do a second 21 day fasting out of sheer prevention and to get the health benefits. I met several people with health issues from severe heart conditions to rheumatoid arthritis who were feeling better than they had ever felt.

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  24. Holly Clausen

    Susan, doesn’t this logic argue even more strongly for a ketogenic diet?

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  25. Renea

    Water fasting … brings into question wouldn’t juicing be better?

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  26. Sylvia

    This is so interesting But Iwill read those article so I will be more informed . I wish you luck in this experience . Thank you for sharing because we hear a lot about this , not knowing what to think about it. Thank you so much for this inf. You are the best .

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  27. Sharon Ruth Swanson

    Wow Susan. Congratulations on your success! Thank You for your inspiration and encouragement!

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  28. Umm Abdullah

    There’s a good book about this called “Fasting and Eating for Health: A Medical Doctor’s Program For Conquering Disease” by Joel Fuhrman. Water fasting seems to be a great way to let your body heal itself., although I don’t think he recommends it purely for weight loss.

    As a Muslim, I know the benefits of fasting, although our fasting is different from a water fast, During Ramadan, we fast from dawn to sunset every day for one month every year (depending where you are, it can be 12-16 or more hours), and it is recommended to do optional fasts every Monday and Thursday. We do not eat or drink during the fasting hours. It’s normal for pregnant and breastfeeding women to fast ( although they shouldn’t if it will cause harm to mother or baby), and I had no problem when pregnant with and breastfeeding all four of my children. People with diabetes and children – neither of whom have to fast – often do it, with no harm. In fact, it is beneficial. People often report being able to think more clearly, having more energy, not feeling as sluggish, etc. (Unfortunately, some people eat huge meals with lots of fried food and sweets in the evening when they break the fast, but that’s not how it’s supposed to be done.) Non-Muslims won’t feel the same spiritual benefits, but there are health benefits – and one billion people around the world do this… there are plenty of studies about it.

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    1. Mariah Perkins

      Wonderful! Thank you. I practice the Baha’i Faith. We also practice fasting for nineteen days every year before Naw Ruz, or New Year at the spring equinox. Our fast is, no water or food from sun-up till sundown. Susan has spoken before on the Baha’i fast and how much she looks forward to it……… In fact all the world’s great major religions have brought a fast among their social laws, but with incomplete knowledge I would say that the Islamic and Baha’i fasts of these newer religions are the longest with unambiguous Guidance how to do them. . Anyone fasting with pure motive according to their religion of course will feel the myriad spiritual benefits.

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  29. Mary Getten

    You are going to LOVE Breitenbush! It’s one of my favorite places. I’m excited to hear about your fast, and I’m wondering how long you are going to go? The food at Breitenbush is not to be missed. Good luck and keep us posted.

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  30. Julie Debrot

    Hi Susan, this is really interesting. Last year I did a 7 day water fast and was amazed at how I felt after. I’m sticking to my bright lines and feeling good too and although I’m at a plateau at this time I’m confident that it will change soon. Have a wonderful break. Thank you for being so un front in everything you do.

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  31. Janet odell

    I have done fasting for nine days. When I got shingles I went on the fast and at the same time I grated raw potatoe as a poltice on all the shingles 5 hours a day and they were gone in a week. The doctor told me I would have them for weeks or months. I felt good

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  32. Jan Petzoldt

    Susan-Thanks for sharing this! I have fasted 1 or 2 meals a day in the past (for physical and spiritual reasons) and have received great benefits from it. Jordan Rubin also has written books on the benefits of fasting and it’s benefits for cancer patients as well. ‘The Maker’s Diet Revolution.’
    I too would like to see a plan that includes intermittant fasting (although I do agree it is a controversial subject for many).
    Thank you again for sharing! I can’t wait to hear about your results!

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  33. EZ

    I did a lot of fasting in the late 70s. Remember Dick Gregory’s book? Anyhow I always felt it resulted in more of a weight problem. There was a huge binge when I started eating and I immediately gained the weight back. I also felt it screwed up my ability to handle caffeine and I got migraines when I drank coffee after that . But it was great in some ways. Weight flew off and after a rough first couple days I felt like superwoman. Just be careful and don’t do enemas with it. .

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  34. Paula

    I’m looking for moderation, peace, and freedom, rather than addiction/compulsion. Intermittent fasting ok, but days without food sounds extreme to me.

    Reply ·
    1. Bright Line Eating

      Hi, Paula. Yes, a water fast can be an extreme measure for many people. This is absolutely a personal experiment for Susan and not something she is advocating or advising for our community. Take Care, xoxo

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  35. Anne J Alexandr

    Susan

    In 1963 I fasted for 47 days on distilled water. I was given less then 3 months to live at age 19. I was suffering from Acute Nephritis. I am now 73. The fast was unforgettable. It was supervised by a Dr. in Escondido. It was a very spiritual experience and one I will never forget. I was completely healed and have gone on to have a wonderful life.

    Anne

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  36. Stacey

    I’m very interested to see what you have to say about this a month from now. I’ve been very impressed with the research on both water fasting and intermittant fasting as well. Eating 3 times a day is just way too much for me…I’m one of those people who does so much better eating once or twice a day max.

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  37. Kim

    Back in the early 70’s, in my teens, I was hospitalized for a bleeding ulcer. The docs had all kinds of “fixes” but thankfully my Dad (bless him for being into scientific research) took me to a residential fasting spa. Looked upon as pretty kooky back in the day! I water fasted for 29 days. It was amazing. Tough for the first two or three (watching tv was hard – too many food commercials) but then hunger was gone and I began to feel really good. After the first week, I had more energy than I had in months.

    End result: ulcer totally healed. No scar tissue. No sign of every having an ulcer. My doc was astounded. He wanted to take a third set of xrays because he couldn’t believe the first two. Also, my eye sight improved and I had to get a new weaker prescription. The theory is that over 60% of the body energy goes to digestion and elimination. When digestion is shut down, all that energy goes into cell healing and rebuilding. Definitely worked for me. 45 yrs later and no stomach problems.

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  38. Dora

    We should have more discussion about intermittent fasting, similar benefits and pretty easy. What it looks like for me is late breakfast, early dinner. Easy peasy.

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  39. Bob

    Susan, the BLE program already includes fasting, in between meals including overnight. If you want to fast why not adhere to no eating past 7:00 pm? However, there is research that supports fasting and in particular the reduction of the IGF (Insulin Growth Factor) which by reducing slows aging. I personally do a BOF, breakfast only fast, usually the day before my weigh in. Anyway, good for you for experimenting. I’m not sure I would share this however. You don’t want people taking liberty with their lines…that’s my take.

    Reply ·
    1. Bright Line Eating

      Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Bob. You’re correct, we absolutely don’t want people taking liberty with their lines or adjust their personal programs based on Susan’s experiment. Fortunately, she shared similar statements many times throughout the vlog. Thanks again for taking the time to comment!

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  40. Nancy Lewis-Watts

    I would LOVE TO DO THIS. I would approach it as a total reset. Would you consider setting it up same way as the 14 Day Challenge. Fasting is fantastic. I’m an adult so can make my own decisions LOL as to whether or not to do this.

    Reply ·
    1. Bright Line Eating

      Hi Nancy,
      At this point in time–as Susan said–this is 100% a personal experiment and not an avenue we’ll be promoting in Bright Line Eating any time in the foreseeable future. The initial weight loss phase of BLE, as well as the first year of maintenance, are full of changes and challenges. We want people to focus on the program, as written, during that time.
      That being said, as you mentioned, we’re all adults and can make our own decision based on our personal research. 😉 Lots of love! xoxo

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      1. Shirley J.

        BLE,
        The issue is not whether or not Susan, an adult, can try juice fasting. I believe the main issue is whether or not a person with addictive eating disorders and lifestyle, can reach a point in their recovery when it is okay to veer off their recovery road. For addictive disordered persons, fasting is extremely restrictive behavior done to show or prove control over something, in this case – food. Yes there are people that can take food or leave it. (Just as there are people that can take or leave alcohol, tobacco, cocaine or any other addictive person, place, or thing.) According to Susan, the leader of the BLE pack, she/we, are 10s on the Susceptibility Scale. As the leader of the BLE pack, it is not in our best interest for her to have us believe that one day, after we have walked this recovery road as long as she has, we too may be able to control the things we were not able to control; things like fasting. I have followed Susan’s teachings for nearly 3 years. I have her book and have done the BLE 14 day challenge. Love her. and her program. Like Susan, I know how to fast, binge and purge. After all, also like Susan, I’ve done that for decades trying to control my addictive eating behavior. BLE works. Its a little hard to follow, but it works. It is teaching me to have order in my life not just with food, but with most things. A 12 hour fast is more than enough. WARNING, This vlog is not for persons with eating disorders, addictive eating disorders or lifestyle, or for any one who scored 8 or above on the Susceptibility Scale. Blessings to Susan and the BLE community.

        Reply ·
        1. Mica

          Beautifully said. And I would love to hear a response from
          Susan directly speaking to this point.

          Reply ·
        2. Kylie Peate

          I totally agree. I feel Susan has been quite irresponsible sharing this information with her followers who she acknowledges through her susceptibility scale are food addicts/highly susceptible to ‘the next new weight loss thing’ etc etc.
          So is she saying ‘do what I do, but not this’?

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  41. Natalie

    I too have been hesitant to try but curious. Last month discovered a physician from True North, Dr Gracie Yuen, who opened a similar place nearby in Ohio.

    I will also hear more about it this weekend in Vegas wh. Dr. Goldhammer is one of the speakers at the conference I’m attending.

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  42. Leanne

    Great resources, thank you so much!

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  43. Laura

    I recently have been experimenting with intermittent fasting. I have been on BLE since April, and felt concerned about my metabolism slowing down. I read “The Obesity Code” by Dr. Fung and have been trying fasting as one meal a day for a few weeks. I found with my personal experience that I started giving myself too much leeway and it was getting a little out of control. Well….back to the tried and true BLE! I feel more comfortable with more guidance and automaticity.

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  44. Kathleen

    My faith teaches us to fast for 24 hours the 1st Sunday of each month. I love the cleansing feeling it brings my body. As my body feels weaker, my spirit feels more self control and in tune with my Heavenly Father. I feel more humble and this brings my mind to realize how much I rely on God for food, water, and the very breath of life He gives me. I am more aware of my blessing and feel a renewed sense of gratitude. (we give the money we would have spent for the food to a fund to be used for those children, single parents, widows, unemployed etc. in our congregation that are in need of food, shelter and clothes.) That is a feel good aspect as well. I recommend fasting once EACH month.

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  45. Jennie

    Such a good subject. I have read Jason Fung’s the Complete Guide to Fasting. Actually just before I started BLE. But I wanted the discipline for life, so I started BLE instead of fasting. But its not off the table to try, just on pause. I’d love more videos on this.

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  46. Carol Purdy

    Love this great idea and want to try it.
    Thanks,
    Carol.

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  47. Rosangela Silva

    I’ve done a 48h fasting every week for many weeks past year, and felt really good. I started doing that after watching the fasting documentary by BBC w/ dr Michael Mosley, which I really recommend for anyone interested in fasting to watch. Great vlog as always, Susan! Enjoy your unplugged time!

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  48. Lillian Riquelme

    I have been on Bright Line eating for six weeks. I have periodically fasted for 24 hours at a time. I am a mature person who has been on a diet since 1965, I was a child. I binged and purged as a teenager. So I really have experienced all fasting and dieting experiences. I feel that this is a slippery slope toward another type of addiction. Not eating can be exhilarating which can be either bad or good. For someone like me who is addicted to food it could be taken too far. I feel BLE has the right amount of control and healthy diet. I worry not eating totally for long periods can lead to a not eating addiction. This is just my opinion.

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  49. KattyM

    I look forward to hearing what it does for your Hashimotos.
    I have been wanting to try it too.
    All the best!

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  50. Heiner Telthörster

    Do you know “Autophagy”? There is a book about it. – in German language.

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  51. Paula

    This is great, and I’m curious about how it works out for you. I recently did a two-day fast (Dr. Jason Fung style with bulletproof coffee and bone broth) and although I can’t say it was very easy or great fun, it was quite doable. By day 3 I was feeling really energetic.

    I’m new to BLE, but not to others nutritionists who advocate similar guidelines, notably Amelia Freer. Interestingly you both avoid dairy products and advocate only 3 meals a day of whole, rainbow food, no sugar, no flour. Y’all are obviously on to something, and I feel inspired and motivated to get on board.

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  52. Catriona

    Susan, your blog is very timely for me. My Dr. recommends I fast every month for 5 days to give my digestive track and my intestines time to rest., and heal.I have been diagnosed with diverticulitis I tried it once and felt great, no more pains and terrible gas. Regrettably I told my friends and they all told me I was crazy, and that I’d eat more when the fast was over, but I really wasn’t hungry, I could have small portions of fruits and veggies and still felt well, but the negativity from my friends and adult children kept nagging that I wasn’t eating enough or when that failed, telling me I was a downer because I wouldn’t eat junk foods. I lost 11 lbs when I fasted and the articles below that you posted, just gave me the impetus to water fast every month as my doctor recommended. My husband supports me, so I really don’t care what friends and family say. I had tons of energy, and my husband told me I glowed. My skin and hair was wonderfully soft. Yes the first 24 hrs. Are tough, mostly mentally, as it’s very easy to talk yourself out of it, if you’re doing a fast alone, but I think the benefits are so worth it, just because it made me evaluate what I’d been eating before., which was probably enough to feed three people!

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  53. Carolyn

    I have been fasting once a week for 24-60 hours over the last 4 years and it has really worked for me. It made me realise that just because my tummy grumbles it doesn’t mean that I have to eat. I have lost 2.5 stones of body fat and the rest of my eating days I try to eat along the Brightline Eating guidelines (no sugar or flour) although my cravings for food have abated since learning to fast. My personal Brightline is to fast every week and I don’t break that rule.
    One piece of advice I would give is when first starting to water fast to be careful when eating again after a fast as there is a tendency to over eat at first and I think Brightliners should be very vigilant not to undo all the good work done by the fast and get back on track with 3 meals a day after a very small amount of food to initially break the fast.

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  54. Liz Murray

    I understand that this vlog represents Susan’s personal experience, and she provided the caveat that this is not something we novice BLEers should try…I find this vlog a bit worrisome. Most of us are in the earlier stages of our recovery, and many won’t heed the warnings of not trying this. They will go directly to restriction, and this may lead to addictive behavior of another form. Why even throw this into the mix? Why not just keep the message consistent? You are leading a movement to Happy, Thin and Free, and this vlog could lead to “Well Susan said I should fast” possibly followed by huge rebound overeating. Not sure this is really helpful for the tribe.

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    1. Constance

      Liz, I agree 100% with you. Especially since I seem to remember at the very beginning of my BLE experience, Susan mentioned that the fast from dinner to breakfast is perfectly fine and all one needs. And btw, that has powered me thru the tough times, when I see everyone around me do all those crazy juicing fasts. (I work at a fitness club) So this Vlog seems to contradict the BLE philosophy. But she did say this would be controversial. I think this is one of those VLOGS, in my opinion, that will do more harm than good. And my advice to Susan is to stick to BLE on these VLOGS and leave out the personal stuff unless it pertains directly to BLE directly. Oh well. I am obviously not in the majority with my opinion.

      Reply ·
      1. Mica

        Totally agree with separating personal from BLE. I had a lot of thoughts about this post–water fasting is a recipe for disaster for people who are disordered in their eating. This includes many of us and water fasting is not my solution. I think this personal quest was better left private.

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    2. Shirley J.

      Liz, I also agree. Most addiction experts and 12 step programs state that food addicts use extremely restrictive diets, purging and fasts, to cope with lack of control over food. Susan asked and answered the question why food addicts are different? It’s because we are wired differently. That wiring/tracts do not change overtime. In fact, according to Susan, those tracts form new fiber tracts and what is left behind are like dry river beds that never go away. And are still waiting to be used once again. The question is, “Do we have to do BLE forever?” In her book, BLE, Susan states that if you are a 3-5 on the Susceptibility Scale (Susan, like me, is a 10 on the scale), it is probably okay for you to experiment with other plans. However, remaining Happy, Thin, and Free, is best achieved by staying with those daily habits that have worked from the start. See Chapter 7 and pages 256-258 of her book, Bright Lines Eating, .

      Reply ·
  55. Chris Taylor

    Congrats! I fasted for 11 days last Nov over Thanksgiving and it was so much easier to get through the holiday with my family-once I said I was fasting they quit trying to get me to just eat a bite. I felt great and I didn’t binge or have cravings worse than before the fast.

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  56. Lucie

    I experience water fasting myself and I couldn’t handle re-entry. THis was prior to BLE . Jason Fong is a Canadian MD that has a lot of information and a program you can do remotely in supervision with your own local MD. I do understand the benefits of autophagy, boost in immunity and for me huge improvement on my sleep but would not retry until at maintenance. If I were to do it then fasting re-entry would to be slow at first and might include one bigger meal than back to 3 BLE meals. The big meal would be like a post cycling meal you described in a call (a bit more protein and veggies). There seems to be a known pattern where people eat a bit more after the fast. I guess what I am trying to say is if you do it with that planned refead phase it defeats the saboteur….

    Reply ·
  57. Mike Billington

    Hi Susan
    I did the fourteen day challenge and lost ten pounds. Prior to that I had done 8 five to seven day fasts over the years and typically lost between fifteen and twenty pounds per fast. I like the bright lines better because I had more energy and still felt massive reduction in inflammation. Fasting is very effective for healing and restoration but it is important to be able to minimize activity and rest deeply during the fast. You need to check out Loren Lockman of Tanglewood Wellness for the authoritive fasting treatise. Thanks for all of the outreach sister.

    Stay Sober Mike B

    Reply ·
  58. Veggietater

    I don’t think this is controversial at all, like you said, we evolved to fast as protection when food wasn’t available! In this era of plenty we forget we often didn’t have food choices, or any food, period. Fasting is a great break for our bodies and minds, and there is plenty of science to support the practice. Good luck, I will be doing the same as soon as I can get of this medication.

    Reply ·
  59. Tammy

    I started BLE with the 2017 bootcamp. I combined BLE with IF in May after researching it. I eat all my BLE food in 4hrs (4-8) and even work out fasted every morning. I feel absolutely amazing, my skin is tighter and glowing!. It makes me feel completely in control of my food and so empowered while fasting.

    Reply ·
  60. Tammy

    Sorry if this posts twice, I accidently closed my browser. I started BLE oct 2016 bootcamp. In May, I started IF and now eat my BLE foods daily between 4-8 and workout fasting each morning. I feel amazing. My skin is tighter and glowing. I feel so empowered while fasting, its hard to even describe. Hopefully now I can come out of the IF closet to my BLE FB group as I feared their judgement. Fasting is evidence based and for me is the antithesis of my old bingeing behaviour which makes me feel powerful as I dont even think about food while fasting.

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  61. Robyn

    I can see the scientist you are with testing out the water fast. I appreciate your research and look forward to the follow up. Enjoying being unplugged💕

    Reply ·
  62. Debbie Harper

    Nice one Susan! I’m looking forward to your opinion in the weeks to come. Autophagy really is a helpful process and I believe we need all the help we can give ourselves. So eager to see how you go! Believe this is a powerful addition to clean detoxing/refuelling/re-energizing. All of those words.

    Reply ·
  63. Dawn Heffernan

    Susan I agree with the science. I had a serious bike injury. You may remember me. I wrote you about collaborating as I work with people with mental health problems. Well my lines are pretty good but I did a chocolate attack recently. Guess what. My hand was in agony. My physio put it down to my sugar consumption. Interesting. She said she sees in in practice time and again..sugar = inflamation. Another great reason to stick to bright lines. I hope we talk in September you said you would have a “window”. I want to trail your bright lines with a few people who have mental health problems and are self medicating with food but who also suffer cos guess what..anti depressants create a big weight gain and the medical profession seems to not really care! They are people I have mentored who have come off anti depressants but struggle with weight cos I think they have lost the plot as far as food goes. I want to sponser them to do your programme but know I will also offer my support via WRAP ( wellness recovery action planning). Thanks for reading

    Reply ·
  64. Mary McKisson

    I have experienced a supervised 7 day distilled water fast with Dr Ralph Cinque at his Hygia Health retreat in Yorktown, Texas in about 1984. I also did a 24 day supervised fast about 1989. Both were excellent experiences and improved my health, physically, mentally and spiritually. Currently I do a 24 hour fast the first Sunday of each month in association with my spiritual family. I can attest to the benefits of fasting, but advise study and preparation prior to the experience.

    Reply ·
  65. Penelope W McDonald, PhD

    I have real concerns about you posting this even with the disclaimer that those with anorexia or food restriction issues should not do this and consult with your doctor. This platform is so public and the population of people with eating disorders is so vulnerable, I just feel this is reckless and opening you up to serious liability. I have not looked at your articles yet, but regardless of the research on water fasting, in an uncontrolled environment, this is a powder keg!

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  66. Caren Fisher

    Does this work well for diabetics?

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  67. Gwenda Eliason

    I love water fasting. I haven’t done it for a while. You inspired me. I am now on my fourth day. I am sorry we didn’t connect at Breitenbush. I was avoiding the smoke. I will be curious to learn how long yours lasted. I am not sure how long I will go. I am listening for inner guidance.

    Reply ·
  68. stephanie casper

    Bravo Girl! done it….wonderful! Now I do intermittent fasting 16-18 from dinner to breakfast lunch….amazing. Health benefits are wonderful…getting in touch with true hunger instead of habitual eating. Wounds heal, inflammation you didn’t even realize existed cause we live with it…..proves the science to me. The science is there folks read the articles she has listed ….they are there to answer your questions.

    At work for surgery people have extreme trouble fasting for just the night before! amazing! In our obese food obsessed nation most people will hit the roof at the thought of abstaining from food! Thanks Susan for being so cutting age!!! Yeah True North!

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  69. Martha Stroble

    Fasting and prayer is nothing new. It has been practiced by Bible believers since the beginning of time.

    Reply ·
  70. Jane

    Now after nearly 2 months since your waterfast, I wonder what your thoughts are about extended water fast?
    Do you think it can be a good idea to start the weight loss with a 10-20 day waterfast and then sticking to ble for someone who has around 50lbs to lose?

    Reply ·
    1. Lani MacDonald

      I too would love to see a follow-up vlog from Dr. Thompson. I salute her for sharing her personal experience with water fasting with us since there is a lot of research on the subject. I would welcome her final thoughts about it.

      Reply ·
  71. Linda Sue

    I recently found on Amazon Prime Video a DOCUMENTARY CALLED, “THE SCIENCE OF FASTING”. It follows the scientific studies, history, and results found for various diseases from arthritis and anxiety to cancer. They show how cancer cells react differently to fasting than normal cells and are killed.
    This ‘water fast’ technique is presented as a WHOLE-BODY RESET FOR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL PROBLEMS.
    I highly recommend watching this documentary to better understand the science behind the technique. If a proper understanding is achieved, this technique has over 90% success according to the studies.
    I wouldn’t try it without watching the documentary, however, there is incredible hope available.
    ***I only wish my comment wouldn’t be lost in the other comments!*** Good luck, everyone!

    Reply ·
  72. Linda Sue

    I apologize for forgetting one of the most significant findings I learned from The Science of Fasting documentary. They explain the mechanism by which subjects survived CHEMO and cancer cells were more dramatically destroyed using fasting.
    As stated, our bodies were designed for fasting, they were not designed for daily feasting.

    Reply ·
  73. Gina Schau

    Susan, I am reading your book right now. I have been doing one-meal-a-day but have also been eating sugar and flour. I’d like to know how to pair bright lines with OMAD. I’m considering eating the 3 meals in one meal. I really really do not want to eat 3 meals a day. It is a hassle and OMAD has health benefits. Can you tell me if this is a workable solution?

    Reply ·
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