Hello fellow Really Dootytitians,

I had a question from a client the other day that I thought I'd share on here for any potential feedback.

The question was regarding fasting, specifically long term fasting. This client, for religious purposes, was thinking of attempting a 40 day fast and was asking for my feedback.

Honestly, I was expecting another question on intermittent fasting, so this took me aside.

When I try searching in this subreddit for fasting all I find is intermittent fasting (hot topic, I know). I haven't been able to find any good studies on pubmed or google scholar (everything is intermittent).

I asked if she had done smaller fasts, and she relayed having completed a 24, 48, and 72hr fast.

I told her to get bloodwork first, and clear it with her doctor. She would need to be careful with hydration, and make sure to still get her electrolytes/vitamins. I also told her I'd help her find a RD to consult with.

I don't have a weight/height/age, but she appeared 5'5", skinny-ish (BMI 18.5-24.9 probably), and maybe late 20s or early 30s.

I don't have her medical history or bloodwork.

Nature of my job is largely giving nutrition workshops for varied groups, so I don't get this background.

I told her I would need to look into it and get back to her.

Has anyone experienced this before or have feedback? I work solo so appreciate feedback here immensely.

Thank you!

EDIT.

Forgot to mention and a comment here made me remember, I did talk about risk of refeeding as well, and the dangers associated with that after a long fast. To emphasize the need to be medically cleared and monitored.

ALSO, to clarify, fasting as in absolutely no food for 40 days. Completely abstaining from food.