“In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.” Daniel 10:2, 3
Welcome! The purpose of this site is to offer valuable and complete information about the Daniel Fast. As the Daniel Fast Blogger, my #1 goal is to help you have a successful fasting experience. More and more Christian men and women are choosing the Daniel Fast as their guideline to enter into the spiritual discipline. While the Daniel Fast is a partial fast, (rather than total abstention from all food) it still provides many of the attributes of denying the self and seeking God.
This blog is designed as a “gathering place” for information and resources about the Daniel Fast to serve those seeking God in this manner. Please “cruise” the blog. Click on the Categories to the left. Remember, this is a blog format, so you will need to page down to see all the posts. Also, leave comments if you have ideas, questions, or comments.
The Daniel Fast Cookbook – Version I- $8.95
This is an eBook and available for immediate download.
Everything is here in this 76-page e-cookbook for you to plan and prepare all the meals and snacks for a 21-day Daniel Fast. More than 50 delicious and nutritious recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks – all made within the Daniel Fast Guidelines.
Click Here to Buy Now Download within minutes!
Included in the cookbook is:
- The Daniel Fast Food List
- Whole Grain Recipes
- Tasty Breakfasts
- Savory Soups and Stews
- Satisfying Casseroles
- Hearty Salads
- Fulfilling Snacks
- 21-day Meal Plan
- Menu Planning Worksheet
- BONUS: All buyers will become an immediate member of our friendly “Daniel Fast Cookbook Community” where we share recipes, tips and praise reports about our experiences on the Daniel Fast. You will receive several emails each month with new recipes, news about the Daniel Fast, and tips and hints for being successful on the fast.
Your purchase of The Daniel Fast Cookbook – Version I is also a way you can support this site and join all those wanting to get the word out about consecrating ourselves to the Lord with prayer and fasting.
Check out this eBook titled The Daniel Fast for Body, Soul and Spirit . It’s specifically designed to make your fasting experience deeply spiritual, highly successful, and beautifully intimate as you consecrate this time and yourself to the Lord.
The Daniel Fast for Body, Soul and Spirit $4.95
This 54-page Daniel Fast eBook is available for immediate download. The book was written especially for Christian men and women who want a special depth to their Fast by prayerful preparation and daily journaling. The eBook includes:
- Daniel Fast Guidelines
- Daniel Fast Food Lists
- Meal Planning Forms
- Daniel Fast Recipes and Menus (updated with the weekly Daniel Fast Newsletter).
- How to Prepare your Spirit
- How to Prepare Your Soul
- How to Prepare You Body
- Journal pages to capture your reflections and insights
- Food log to track your food and water intake
- Fasting tips
- Prayers and Meditations
- Meditations and valuable insights to assure your success for the Daniel Fast.
- Plus, a free subscription to the Daniel Fast Newsletter so you can learn of miracles, answered prayer, fasting tips, recipes, and other interesting information about the Daniel Fast
Do you have questions or do you want to stay up with the latest news on the nation-wide Daniel Fast? Send an email to: mailto: info@Daniel-Fast.com
Over the next few weeks more content will appear on this weblog including prayers, thoughts on fasting, recipes, fasting tools, and more. Please contact me if there is information you want to know that I could also include on this page. I truly look at this as a place of service to others.
Katherine said,
December 17, 2007 at 6:35 pm
I would love to see the cookbook
)
Marcia Fisher said,
December 18, 2007 at 6:37 am
I would love to know when the book is ready and I would also like to be added to your mailing list. Thanks for being a blessing.
Marcia Fisher
Susan Gregory said,
December 19, 2007 at 11:41 am
Hey friends, The Daniel Fast Cookbook is ready and available for immediate download. You can find it at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com. I so appreciate all of you who are supporting me in this effort by purchasing the books. This site is an act of love and obedience to the Lord. The only way it is funded at all is through these purchases. So words cannot express my deep appreciation. God bless you!
Susan Gregory
The Daniel Fast Blogger
yinka said,
December 27, 2007 at 3:28 pm
u av bn so wonderful touching pples lives,and i pray God help ur endeavours.Amen
Victoria Clark said,
December 30, 2007 at 9:54 pm
Can you eat olives on the Daniel Fast?
Vera Sanders said,
June 1, 2009 at 10:05 am
List of foods
Renee said,
December 31, 2007 at 6:04 am
Is decaffeinated coffee allowed on the fast? What about brown or raw sugar?
CAROL said,
August 1, 2009 at 5:23 pm
IS DECAFFEINATED COFFEE OK?
Susan Gregory said,
August 3, 2009 at 10:58 am
Hi Carol,
No, the only beverage on the Daniel Fast is water and all stimulants like caffein are not allowed.
I confess that for me, the most difficult part of the Daniel Fast is not drinking coffee in the morning! But denying myself of it for the period of fasting is part of denying the flesh and learning more about self-control.
Be blessed on your fast.
Leslie Robinson said,
October 8, 2009 at 12:18 am
Hi Renee.As for me, I don’t want decaffeinated coffee,because first,I would still feel that I’m having coffe and that’s a no-no with caffeine,and I would not want any brown or raw sugar in it.Forme,now,understand,I said for me,that’s living to close to the edge. My husband says that our fasting should be an attitude of the heart. Take care and God bless you.
Renee said,
December 31, 2007 at 6:09 am
Can you eat collard greens on the Daniel Fast?
Susan Gregory said,
December 31, 2007 at 6:31 am
Hi Renee,
Yes to the collard greens and no to the decaf and brown or raw sugar.
One of the huge benefits to the Daniel Fast is that your body is cleansed. Even decaf has some caffeine in it. Also, the Daniel Fast is not merely a natural food diet. Therefore, restricting sugar of any kind is part of the “challenge” that we overcome in the flesh for a spiritual purpose.
I hope the very best for you as you consecrate this time to the Lord.
Renee said,
December 31, 2007 at 8:03 am
Thanks, Susan. You are truly a blessing!
Happy New Year!
Diana said,
December 31, 2007 at 8:43 am
I am getting ready to go on a danile fast, on the 2nd, but will be traveling that day…..any suggestions on what I could take with me to eat that will keep me going on the trip and not break the fast ? Thank you Diana
Susan Gregory said,
December 31, 2007 at 9:10 am
Hi Diana,
Thanks for the question. It’s a good one and I think I will write a post about it in the next couple days. I am finishing a 21-Day Daniel Fast Daily Devotional now and have my fingers sanctioned to that for now! J
I don’t know how long you are traveling, but here is what I would take:
Bottled Water, Rice Cakes, Cut fruit, Sliced vegetables, and Hummus.
You could also take some stir fried vegetables and brown rice which is easy to pack and good at room temperature.
I hope this helps. I pray the very best for you on your fast and thanks again for the question.
Susan Gregory
The Daniel Fast Blogger
gerry said,
December 31, 2007 at 9:37 am
please address the following:honey, whole grain cereal, bread,tea, milk, eggs
Susan Gregory said,
December 31, 2007 at 9:47 am
Hi Gerry,
To be a Daniel Fast purist you will nix the honey, bread, tea, milk and eggs. Whole grain cereals are okay.
The Daniel Fast is centered around fruits, vegetables and water. It excludes “delicacies” and all animal products.
I encourage you to “cruise” this site as there is a lot of information in the posts. Also, you might want to purchase the books as I am able to go into much greater detail in them. You can find all three of the books at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com
Tonya said,
January 1, 2008 at 12:05 am
What kind of condiments can be used during this fast? Is can veggie and fruit acceptable?
William Rinehart said,
January 1, 2008 at 7:48 am
Our church is starting a Daniel Fast on January 7, 2008, I am starting my Daniel Fast on January 1, 2008, we are going for 21 days at church, my goal is 28 days, is it OK to have a goal? I have a lot of anger issues, which I feel, with much prayer and supplication, that this spirit will lift off of me. Thank you for allowing me to express my feelings. I feel like this is what God wants me to do. Thank you.
William Rinehart said,
January 1, 2008 at 8:02 am
Are pecans, just out of the shell on the daniel fast.
Renee said,
January 1, 2008 at 8:23 am
Is Instant Oatmeal (cooks in 1 minute) considered “processed” or is it ok on the Fast?
Susan Gregory said,
January 1, 2008 at 9:56 am
The instant oatmeal might be fine. I think what may become one of our Daniel Fast mottos is “READ THE LABEL.”
The Daniel Fast is sugar-free and chemical-free. So if you find those on the label, then you will need to bypass the convenience. Check out organic products as they are free from the chemicals.
Renee said,
January 1, 2008 at 11:37 am
Thanks, Susan. Just a couple more…what about plain popcorn (old-fashioned pan or microwave). I’m thinking that because it’s a grain and a “corn” that it will be ok for the Fast. Am I correct? Also, in the cookbook, some of the recipes contain peanut butter. Am I correct in assuming that this too should be unsweetened, organic? Finally, Soy Milk…Please clarify this. Is this ok b/c it doesn’t come from a cow? I’m starting my Fast today and am very excited about cleansing my body of all the impurities and getting closer to God so I can hear him speak to me more clearly about the purpose for my life. Thanks again.
Heather & Monica said,
January 1, 2008 at 1:22 pm
We first want to thank you for this website. We ordered the food guide just now and are excited at all the information you offer. Our husbands are cajun and they have started the fast with us today, however, they “like to eat” so we needed these receipes. 1. Are olives in a jar ok? 2. Don’t canned veggies or tomato soup have preservetives? 3. Is there any alternative for sweetening foods? Thank you again for being here for our support.
Monica & Heather said,
January 1, 2008 at 1:27 pm
First of all we would like to thank you for this website. We started the fast today and our husbands are cajuns and “like to eat”. We downloaded the food guide today and are excited at the amount of information you have to offer. Several questions,
1. Are canned or jarred olives ok?
2. Don’t canned veggies or tomato soup have preservatives?
3. Is there any alternative for sweetening foods?
Thanks again for being here.
Susan Gregory said,
January 1, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Hi Monica and Heather,
Thanks for your questions. I just wrote a couple new posts about Stevia, which is a natural herbal sweetner and READ THE LABELS, which will address the issue with preservatives.
Also, olives (if they are sugar-free and chemical-free) are totally acceptable and a great addition to a vegetable plate and to salads.
God bless you and your families on the Fast. You are in my prayers!
Gerry said,
January 1, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Can you address the following items potatoes, popcorn, what type of seasonings are ok
Susan Gregory said,
January 1, 2008 at 7:16 pm
Hi Gerry,
All potatoes are okay . . . popcorn is kind of a gray area. Microwave popcorn has additives, so it’s out. If you pop it with vegetable oil and salt it would be okay.
All seasonings are okay as long as they are sugar-free and chemical-free.
God bless you and thantks for your questions.
Sonya Anderson said,
January 1, 2008 at 7:18 pm
I think it is awesome that you are putting this information out on this book and cookbook. I look forward to seeing the great things God is going to do this year in my life and others. The year 2008 means New Beginnings. I believe that is what God wants for everyone. Thank you for your time. I have enjoyed reading this page. May you and your family be blessed.
Minnie Johnson said,
January 2, 2008 at 4:37 am
I will be starting my fast on the 6th of January. I did it last year too, but I am not sure if I did it correctly for 21 days.
Can I have organic honey? I usually drink 1 teaspoon with 1 tablespoon of virgar and 4 oz of water the 1st thing in the moring. It is good for high blood pressure. I ate only fruits and veg last year. What about dried beans? I ate some last year, but I want to be sure this year.
Thanks for all that you are doing to help people.
Tina said,
January 2, 2008 at 8:03 am
Hi Susan,
What a wonderful ministry!! A friend has shared your receipts with me for the Daniel Fast, and I want to be faithful to your ministry buy sending you a donation or offering for your work. Can you please provide me with an address so I can send you check?
Thank you and Blessings for a great 2008
Vicki Muraoka said,
January 2, 2008 at 8:36 am
Hi , I just tryed a recipe last night you take 1/2 a red cabbage and slice it in a skillet . the top it with 2 teaspoons of garlic and 2 apples (any brand) pealed and cored and chopped then top with 3 tablespoons red wine vinager. put on the stove on medium heat with a lid .until it starts to steam then turn to low. stir every 5 mins or so until it is soften . and serve . it was very good . it took about 45 mins to soften.
Yvette said,
January 2, 2008 at 9:24 am
Our church started our Daniel fast on the 1st. Some of you are asking about popcorn and sugar, but Daniel stayed away from “pleasure” foods. Remember this is the time we are haveing one on one prayer meeting with God. We are stopping and praying every three hours. At those times when you feel like you have to have something that is not on the Daniel fast, stop and pray and pray hard. The devil does not want us to conquer this communion with God but he is defeated, don’t let him defeat us. Be Blessed
Debbie Greer said,
January 2, 2008 at 9:26 am
Our church is going to do a Daniel Fast. Is fish allowed?
Kathy Taylor said,
January 2, 2008 at 9:46 am
Are herbal teas allowed? btw The cookbook is great!!!!
Neha said,
January 2, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Hey, thanks for this great website. This is so, wonderful if anyone has questions they can just post them up this is very helpful i am so, glad i came across this. I am going to be starting Daniel fast also this will be my first time. I am so, excited to do it God speaking to me in some areas of my life to do this fast. I want to know this fast starts from 6am to 6pm. I wasnt sure about that. Thankyou
hillary said,
January 2, 2008 at 4:49 pm
Waiting to here on the soymilk thing? Also, I am an athlete, so I need to keep the protein high…outside of tofu, what are the best ways (simple is best). thanks!
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Hi Hillary,
Soymilk is fine . . . and the best sources for protein are tofu or beans with rice. However, I do stress that if people have special dietary needs, that altering the fast is totally appropriate. For example, pregnant women need additional protein and calcium so I suggest they add organic dairy, chicken and fish to their eating plan.
Remember, there is nothing powerful about the foods included or excluded during the fast. It is all about consecrating your body, soul and spirit unto the Lord. Fasting is restricting food for spiritual purposes, so you want some foods withheld, but a fast should never bring harm to the body.
I hope this helps!
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Hi Neha,
The fast is a 24 hour a day 21-day long fast. It is a partial fast where you restrict specific foods from your diet. This is different from the “normal fast” which is water only.
It is okay to eat during the day and at any hour for that matter. I know my daughter-in-law who is Ethiopian fasts often and they don’t consume food during the daylight hours. But this is different. You can eat any time, just stay within the Daniel Fast Food List and the Daniel Fast Guidelines.
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2008 at 5:55 pm
Thanks, Kathy, for your kind words about the 2008 Daniel Fast Cookbook, When I started this blog, I quickly realized that people needed help in creating meals and menus. The cookbook has received many positive comments and I am so happy people like it.
Regarding HERBAL TEAS. Just about all tea has certain levels of caffeine in them, even herbal teas. The “water only” part of the Daniel Fast is from Daniel 1 when Daniel ate only vegetables and drank only water. The fast recounted in Daniel 10, he drank no wine and likely that meant that he only consumed water.
I know this can be a difficult change, but the great thing about drinking only water is that it flushes the body and is the best exercise you can do to detox your body.
Ceceli said,
January 2, 2008 at 8:01 pm
I am thinking about starting the Daniel Fast in about a week. I understand it is a good way to jump start weight loss and I need to lose about 25 lbs. My question concerns working out-should you work out while fasting and if so, are there any restrictions?
Cecelia said,
January 2, 2008 at 8:02 pm
I forgot to also ask in the previous comment about vitamins-are those allowed? Additionally, I have seen other websites about the Daniel Fast and they include fish but yours does not? Is fish allowed or not?
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2008 at 8:40 pm
Hi Ceceli,
Yes the Daniel Fast is excellent for weight loss, but don’t miss the best and most important benefit and that is getting to draw closer to God. He is so powerful and showing up in the lives of men and women in supernatural ways!
Vitamins and suppliments are totally acceptable on the Daniel Fast. And finally, the Daniel Fast is up to interpretation. It’s taken from Daniel 10 and Daniel 1 in the Bible. In these records of Daniel’s fasting he ate “no meat” and ate “only vegetables.” So the fast that has been developed over the years is without any fish or animal products.
God bless you on the fast. I hope you cruise the site and can learn more about the Fast. It’s is a powerful discipline with many benefits for the body, soul and spirit.
Cecelia said,
January 3, 2008 at 3:50 am
Thank you for your insight. I will not lose sight of the purpose of the fast-drawing closer to God. Your answers are great guidance and I will read the chapters in the Bible and pray for guidance regarding the fast. You did answer my question about the supplements, but can you offer any comments on exercising during this time?
Susan Gregory said,
January 3, 2008 at 5:07 am
Minnie, up on comment #24 asked about eating beans.
There are so many foods you CAN EAT on the Daniel Fast. Please review the Daniel Fast Food list and also the recipes on this blog. You also might want to consider one or both of the books as I am able to go into much greater detail in those documents.
God bless you on your fast.
William Rinehart said,
January 3, 2008 at 9:50 am
If I started the Daniel fast on Jan. 1. Do I go through Jan. 21 or Jan. 22?
(On a 21 Day fast).
deborah said,
January 3, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Just wanted to say thanks and God bless.
Mrs. Howard said,
January 3, 2008 at 8:36 pm
I would like to Thank You for taking the time out to create The Daniel Fast CookBook. This will defintely help tremendously with fasting. You are truly doing God’s work. May God continue to bless you so that you can continue to bless others .
Thank you again,
Toni C said,
January 3, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Praise God for YOU !
I Love your information – very big help to a first timer @ (21 days)
1-6-08 to 1-26-08
Jesus Is Lord !
Ronald Reynolds said,
January 3, 2008 at 10:56 pm
I had a question. I notice that on one of the breakfast recipes it says to put in raisins but the raisins contains 29 grams of sugar and I looked at 3 different kinds. What raisins should I look for?
Susan Gregory said,
January 3, 2008 at 11:04 pm
Hi Ronald,
All raisins are okay. They are one of the sweeter fruits that can be used in hot cereal, in salads and even in Indian dishes. Even though they have a lot of natural sugar, as long as the are just plain raisins, then they can be used.
Angellic said,
January 4, 2008 at 5:54 am
Thank you for this form. I want to know if it’s ok to have grits during the fast?
Susan Gregory said,
January 4, 2008 at 6:29 am
Hi Angellic,
What are grits?
Just kidding! I am from Washington State where we live on salmon, huckleberries, and wild rice. Not a lot of grits in these parts
Yes, grits are totally acceptable on the Daniel Fast. Again, READ THE LABEL and make sure that the manufacturer hasn’t added anything. You always want to be sugar-free and chemical-free.
God bless you on your fast!
Lafayne said,
May 21, 2009 at 9:30 pm
This too will be my first time on the Daniel fast. I’m looking forward to it as well. Most of all a closer walk with the Lord. And clearity on what I’m suppose to be doing (my purpose). I’m fifty years old now, past time to be about God’s business.
Susan Gregory said,
May 22, 2009 at 8:47 am
Good morning Lafayne,
My prayer for you is that you will grow in the love and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ as you enter into this focused time of prayer and fasting. God is so good. Open your heart to Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to teach and guide you. Be patient with yourself as you learn more about living the Kingdom ways. God will show you the purposes He has for you. Learn about listening to the Lord and hearing His voice. Study the Word and from well-grounded Bible teachers and preachers. God will answer your prayer!
Be blessed, dear one!
jeffgoins said,
January 4, 2008 at 8:21 am
Another blogger just posted on the Daniel Fast at: http://www.sethbarnes.com/index.asp?filename=the-daniel-fast-is-more-than-a-diet. Check it out.
Bianca said,
January 4, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Thank you, this site is a blessing. We will begin our Daniel Fast on the 7th. I drink Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (Bragg) 2tsp. w/ 8oz. 3 x a day, can I do that while fasting? My husband drinks 8oz. of Aloe Vera Juice daily, can he continue doing so? Your information is so helpful, God Bless.
Kelly said,
January 4, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Hi Susan, thank you so much for all your hard work. I really hope God blesses your sock off. I love the cook book as it lays everything out so simply. Great advice to read the labels too. I’ve never really thought much about what I eat before and this has been such an eye opener! I was wondering if we can eat flat bread on this fast? I started an ordinary fast 3 days ago and dedicated my all to God. He has reveled some amazing truths to my husband and I already. Not always easy to hear truths, but life changing and confronting ones. I believe our live will be changed forever by dedicating this time to God. I have found it easier to start the Daniel fast with an ordinary fast because any food is greatfully accepted when you have had none at all! Strange thing is that I haven’t really been hungry. Dethroning ‘king stomach’ really clears your head to hear Gods voice clearly. Thank you again for your support. Cheers from Australia,
Kelly
Susan Gregory said,
January 4, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Wow, Kelly. I sure hear your heart. I am so blessed to have the honor communicating with God-seeking men and women all over the world as we all determine ourselves to get more of Him in our lives.
About flat bread . . . I was going to post a recipe for flat bread that I have and I got “checked” on it. The Daniel Fast says “No Bread.” So even though flat bread is without levening, it’s kind of pushing it. Now, do I think one would be “cheating” or “failing” at their fast if they ate flat bread . . . no.
But since I have been put in a position to communicate with thousands about the Fast, I think that was why the Lord checked me and said to leave the flat bread recipe off the blog.
God bless you and your husband on your fast. I lived near Sydney a long, long time ago and love Australia. I know it is so different now, but I hope to visit there again.
G’day mate!
Kelly Pettigrove, Pambula Beach, Australia said,
January 4, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Thanks heaps Susan. Funny that you got a ‘check’ because so did I. God is so good! No bread means no bread. My husband will be disappointed but if you’re going to do something for God, go all out and do it properly I say! I hope to stay in touch over this time and hear everyones stories. Thanks again. Hugs, Kelly
Pastor PBJ said,
January 4, 2008 at 10:24 pm
Hello Susan
I love reading the comments from many of your bloggers. I’m pretty new at all this but will give this a try. I can say the comments from Kelly are refreshing and enjoyable. I love her heart and pray that God will bless her and her husband mightily during this time. I bought and downloaded your books tonight. I will start my fast Sunday, Jan 6-27, 2008. I truly can say that I have felt an anticipation of great and mighty works that God wants to accomplish through His people during 2008. He is just waiting on us to be obedient. I’m obeying. Glad to hear others are too. Thanks PBJ
Vince said,
January 5, 2008 at 11:22 am
Hi Guys, thanks so much for all this wonderful information. If I have a regiment of natural suppliments (you know saw palmetto, milk thistle, folic acid, etc) and continue to take them and follow the Daniel Diet do you think that would be vaild.
Thanks,
Vince
Susan Gregory said,
January 5, 2008 at 11:36 am
Hi Vince,
A regiment of natural suppliments as you described is all good . . .
A regiment of Snickers Bars and Caramel Marchiatto Triple Lattes is not
God bless you on your fast!
Dawn said,
January 5, 2008 at 12:32 pm
I want to say thanks! This is great! My husband and I have done the Daniel fast before but just kind of winged it. We are believing God for some specific answers to questions about our future, including some financial decisions. We also just want to draw closer to God. We started some fasting on the 1st but are officially starting our Daniel fast on the sixth. Thanks again for the time you put into this. I am looking forward to buying and downloading the book.
Thanks,
Dawn
Pamela said,
January 5, 2008 at 4:09 pm
I love this website. I am so excited about the 21 day devotional that you wrote. Thanks for all your hard work.
My question is about tortillas, isn’t that a form of bread?
Lindsi Cavender said,
January 5, 2008 at 5:42 pm
Ok now I know it says no eggs on the Daniel Fast but i also work out 3 times a week and have hypo glycemia. What would you suggest as far as eating so my blood sugar does not get to a dangerous level considering that no meats or fish are part of the daniel fast
Susan Gregory said,
January 5, 2008 at 5:50 pm
Hi Lindsi,
I can only suggest a few things: 1) whole grain cereals with soy milk; 2) tofu and fruit smoothies; 3) keep eggs in your diet.
Remember, the power in the fast is not about what you eat or don’t eat. It’s in consecrating your body, soul and spirit unto the Lord. A fast should never put the body in harm, so if you need to make some adjustments, then that is totally appropriate.
I hope the best for you on your fast!
tammy said,
January 6, 2008 at 7:08 am
I read from one of the other comments that no fish is allowed. Will you tell me why? Also, it seems most fast 21days and not 10 days as mentioned in Daniel 1:12. Why 21 days? Just wanting some clarification.
Thank you.
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Hi Tammy,
This will be the abbreviate version. You can learn more by checking under the Category titled “Daniel Fast.”
The Daniel Fast is based on two fasting experiences that the prophet recorded in the Old Testament Book of Daniel. Daniel 1 was when he turned down the meat and wine from the king and ate only vegetables and drank only water. He asked to be checked to see the condition of his health after 10 days, at which time he was found to be healthier than all those who ate the rich diet of the king.
The second fast was recorded in Daniel 10 when he “ate no meat or delicate foods and drank no wine for 21 days.”
It is from these accounts that the current day Daniel Fast has been developed. There is a lot of room for interpretation, but the “core” of the fast is no fish or any animal products because of the “vegetables and water” fast in Chapter 1 and then no leavened breads, sweeteners, caffeine, etc because of both chapters — and 21 days because of Chapter 10.
I encourage you to read Chapters 1 and 10 as you can see Daniel’s character and on what information the fast is based.
Kelly Pettigrove, Pambula Beach, Australia said,
January 6, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Good morning Susan and fellow fasters,
Thanks heaps for the extra recipes Susan. Tortillas are a little too close to bread for me so we won’t be using that one until after the fast but I’m really looking forward to them then. I’m sure my six year old will have a ball helping me make them.
Just wanted to let you know that God is really shaking up this house! It’s amazing. I have never had such an awesome time talking with my husband and worshiping God just by talking with him. I feel like at last we have our order of importance the right way up. God first, husband next, children third and everything else after that. Our house has a new peace flowing in it. I can not tell you how greatful I am. God is gently speaking His truth into our lives and at last we are listening! Have a great day everyone. Hugs, Kelly
Jon said,
January 6, 2008 at 6:19 pm
Can you fry or cook foods in olive oil or grape seed oil?
Jon
Wendy Shannon said,
January 6, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Thank you for creating this site!
My pastor told me about this site, it has been very helpful to me.
I am still wondering though if I can eat honey and drink rice milk? I have some allergies and local honey seems to help them. Please E-mail me back with what I should do. Thanks, Wendy.
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Hi Jon,
Frying or sauteing in a small amount of oil is consistent with the guidelines. Olive, grape seed, sesame and other vegetable oils are acceptable.
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Hi Wendy,
If you are using these foods to “treat” your allergies, then that would be an acceptable adjustment to the Daniel Fast. The Fast should only be good for our body and do it no harm.
However, if you are asking if you can use honey and drink rice milk as part of the fast, then that would be, “No.” The only beverage is water or 100% fruit and/or vegetable juice. Rice and soy milk can be used in cooking or on cereal … but not as beverage.
I hope that helps! God bless you on your fast!
LaTasha said,
January 6, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Hi Susan,
I have been studying on fasts and am now called to participate in a Corporate 21 Day Fast and I found that all of your material is extremely helpful. I had one question as I did not want to mess up the copryright laws. We would like to distribute the devotional to our members at no charge to them, how would you advise we go about it, as it is available to us at no charge. HOwever, we would like to sell copies of your book. I personally paid for a copy and thought it was WONDERFUL and forwarded it to my Pastor who thought the same thing, how would we go about doing that, shall we pay you for copy we sell per household or do a mass compensation or what, because I want us to grow together. The wealth of the WICKED is laid up for the just, and we are just and we should help enhance our own community FIRST before enhacing name brand clothes and shoes.
Just wanting to go about it the correct way,
LaTasha
Jamel Lewis said,
January 7, 2008 at 6:36 am
I was wondering why you said salt was acceptable when salt is a preservative, and the fast does not allow preservatives. Thanks for all your hard work with this website. I really appreciate it.
Kim said,
January 7, 2008 at 7:17 am
Thanks for the welath of information….!! I need it. I will be doing this for the first time and am very excited about the things God is going to do for me and my family and my church. My pastor gave us (church) this website and I am very thankful. Can I get your cookbook in a store so I don’t have to wait for shipping time?…. -Kim
Susan Gregory said,
January 7, 2008 at 8:40 am
Hi Jamal,
You asked about why salt when it is a preservative, yet the Daniel Fast says no preservatives . . .
Salt is okay because it is not a laboratory produced chemical. There are a lot of “fine lines” in the Daniel Fast and it has huge room for interpretation. But one thing is for sure and that is that we want to stay away from all artificial food products which include chemicals and additives.
Allyson said,
January 7, 2008 at 8:47 am
I would like to know if you have a recipe for Collard Greens in your cookbook. If not, please email me back to see if I can share a recipe with Renee. Because of health restrictions my mother no longer cooks them with meat… the ingredients to this would be perfect for the Daniel fast. Also as a reminder about cooking collard greens, they are normally seasoned with pork or smoked turkey… meat is not allowed on this fast so be careful when selecting vegetables, especially people with “southern” roots.
My church has started the fast today and I’m looking forward to consecrating these 21 days to the Lord!
Blessings…
Susan Gregory said,
January 7, 2008 at 8:53 am
Thanks for your offer, Allyson. Send the recipe to me and I’ll add it to this site.
I don’t have a recipe for Collard Greens in the Cookbook, yet. I live in Washington State where today as I write these words it’s 19 degrees and the outdoors is covered in freshly fallen snow . . . it’s like a different world up here compared to “collard green country” in the South!
I am eager to try your recipe! Other Daniel Fast Blog readers have sent some great Southern Cookin’ Recipes and I will be sending them out to all those who have purchased the Daniel Fast Cookbook (I send out a weekly batch of new recipes and fasting hints).
I hope the very best for you on your fast!
Deanna said,
January 7, 2008 at 11:32 am
Hi Susan,
Just wondering if 100% wheat pasta is okay.
Thanks
Jon said,
January 7, 2008 at 11:46 am
Thanks – we are doing a 36-day Daniel Fast. I believe as a result of this fast, my diet will change. I didn’t realize how creative I could be. Meat, although I am not against eating it, had really been a crutch for me. I am beginning to see that there is a lot of variety out there, it just requires a little more time, thought, money and effort.
Re: Money, it’s better and cheaper to pay now rather than paying later (health wise I mean).
Thanks for this site!
Susan Gregory said,
January 7, 2008 at 12:00 pm
Hi Deanna,
Yes, 100% Whole Wheat Pasta is okay . . . you’ll probably need to make your own sauce as most prepared sauces include sugar
Happy Fasting!
Kaleen said,
January 7, 2008 at 12:03 pm
I did not see avocados on your list? Is that safe?
Susan Gregory said,
January 7, 2008 at 12:29 pm
All fresh foods and vegetables are allowed on the Daniel Fast. Canned, dried and frozen are also okay as long as they are sugar-free and chemical-free. READ THE LABLES.
Bless you on your fast!
Deanna said,
January 7, 2008 at 1:12 pm
Thanks Susan for this website!!
How many days until the headaches stop? Can we take any thing for them?
God bless you
Kim said,
January 7, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Are pecans or other nuts allowed on the fast?
Susan Gregory said,
January 7, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Hi Kim,
Pecans, seeds and all kinds of nuts are allowed on the Daniel Fast including prepared nuts as long as they are sugar-free and chemical-free.
Bless you on your fast!
Yolanda said,
January 7, 2008 at 2:17 pm
My family started the Daniel fasting along with our church today. I personally know it won’t be easy for me since this will be the first time I actually do a fasting for this long and with limited selection of food to eat.
I do have a question for you. When you say no breads I take it that means the Ezekiel bread as well? This bread is also known as Bible Bread or Fasting Bread. I have purchased this bread in the past from Walmart and found it to be not only delicious but very healthy.
Thank you in advance
Susan Gregory said,
January 7, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Hi Yolanda,
Ezekiel Bread is NOT allowed on the Daniel Fast, although it is a very healthy bread. It has honey and yeast in it, plus it’s a “raised” bread.
The best way to go is eliminate all breads. All fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains, rice . . . there are a lot of very healthy foods on the Fast.
Bless you!
Charlene said,
January 7, 2008 at 7:00 pm
Susan,
I just purchased the cookbook. I was happy to find information on receipes. I am sure it will be a blessing.
This is my 3rd year of doing the 21 day fast and each year I grow and learn a little more.
God bless you and your ministry!
Shari Dunn said,
January 7, 2008 at 7:01 pm
God bless you, Susan, for allowing Him to use you to lead us through this God-ordained Fast. This is the first year my Pastor has asked us to do the Daniel Fast which we began yesterday (Sunday, 1/6). He is asking our Church to fast for 15 days. I feel led of the Lord to do the entire 21 days.
I was asked to present an inspirational message to our Church Sunday night and the Lord gave me a message from St. Luke 18:35-43: “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus told Jesus, “I want to see!” (New Living Translation of verse 41) I encourage all of my wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ who are doing the Daniel Fast to let the Lord know exactly what you want Him to do for you during and as a result of this Fast. And then watch God work on your behalf.
God is going to get the glory out of THIS!
Shari
Andrea said,
January 7, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Okay, I am a little confused…I too am a first time Daniel faster, and will be starting on Wed. I was wondering why Ezekiel or Genesis Bread is not acceptable but whole wheat pasta is. I ask this because I just bought the bread thinking…”hey it is kosher, vegan, no sweetners, and flourless…Praise God! I can eat this!!!”
Thanks
Bill said,
January 7, 2008 at 11:09 pm
Excellent site here,I found it by accident,I am really looking forward to hearing from God during this time of consecration.
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 1:05 am
Hi Andrea,
I can understand the confusion. There are many “fine lines” in the Daniel Fast. The issue with Ezekiel Bread is that it’s a leavened bread, includes honey and yeast in the ingredients, and is “bread,” which is restricted on the Daniel Fast.
Please keep in mind that the Daniel Fast is based on only a few verses of Scriputre and is therefore up for interpretation. However, in Daniel 10 he records tht “I ate no meat or delicate food (some translations say bread) and drank no wine.” In Jewish fasts, yeast was a symbol for sin, so it was restricted during fasts.
I hope this helps.
Cindy said,
January 8, 2008 at 4:32 am
My husband and I are going to start the fast next week. How do we get around the “caffiene headache” from the withdrawl? Also, we have 2 small children and are interested in how to modify the fast for their nutritional needs. Thank you so much for taking your time to respond.
Kim said,
January 8, 2008 at 4:52 am
I thank Yahweh for the many results of the fast and for this ministry.
I have one more question is mushrooms allowed? It is a fungus.
Donna said,
January 8, 2008 at 8:24 am
On Jentezen Franklin ministry magazine there is a recipe for Daniel fasting that calls for chickent broth. Is chicken broth ok for this fast?
Barbara said,
January 8, 2008 at 8:42 am
I have found some tea that does not include any tea by Bigelow. The ingreadients does not include any tea, butt chamomile flowers. Another one includes only rose hips, spices, hibiscus flowers, orange peel, roasted chicory, natural orange flavors and the last one includes only , peppermint leaves, spearmint leaves, rose hips, lemon peel, hibiscus flowers. Are these allowed on the diet? I know that Water is the main beverage, but occasionally, the above might be good for a change. What do you think?
Thanks alot for your time and support in keeping this site going. The information you furnish is a ‘life saver’ for those of us on the fast.
Bethany said,
January 8, 2008 at 11:04 am
We started the fast 5 days ago. I have been to the grocery store/whole foods store 6 days in a row and spend twice as much time as usual preparing meals! By the time I get off work at 5:30, pick up something I missed on the recipe list or couldn’t find during the last trip, double check the labels, spend time trying to put some new recipe for dinner together… it’s time to start kiddo’s bedtime routine….. I feel like I’m spending all my time trying to make the fast happen and getting LESS time with God.
Any suggestions….????
Veronica said,
January 8, 2008 at 11:24 am
Hi Susan, I have always wanted to do the Daniel Fast, but felt undisciplined in this area of my life. This is my first time doing the Daniel Fast. I started on January 3 with my niece and her church to go til January 21. I received a list of can do’s and donts but the list is not complete for me. I have feasted on cheese is that against the Daniel Fast? What about canned vegetables and cold medicines? HELP!!!
Ronald Reynolds said,
January 8, 2008 at 12:15 pm
I wanted to know about the sugars on some of the foods. I noticed that the tortilla and the peas and some other foods have at least 1g of sugar. Am I correct in guessing that the sugars that I’m seeing are the natural sugars from the products itself and it will be alright to eat it?
Kiwan said,
January 8, 2008 at 12:32 pm
First of all, God bless this site. Second, I really need to know if I can eat cambell’s tomato soup? I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Jeanette Duncan said,
January 8, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Susan I am wondering if veggie burger and hotdogs are acceptable. Reading the label there is no meat its vegetables with soy. They are not very tasty but it works. Just want to do the right thing since this is my first time and I don’t want to lead my unsaved husband wrong since this was his idea.
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Hi Jeanette,
I don’t use those, but it’s just that I’m not keen on their flavor. The main thing is to READ THE LABEL. We always want to be sugar-free and chemical-free.
Blessings!
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Hi Kiwan,
Again, READ THE LABEL. Most prepared soups have sugar in them. I think Campbell’s has chemicals, also. Check out the soups in the Natural Food section of the grocery store. Look for those in the cans and the boxes. There are some that don’t have sugar in them.
I send my blessings to you on your fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Hi Ronald,
The sugar thing gets hard because it is used in so many prepared foods. If you see it listed as in ingredient, then it’s actually been added to the food. This is one of the reason why most foods have to be prepared from scratch on the Daniel Fast.
I think you can decide for yourself how much is “okay.” I am a “none at all” faster, but I also eat very simply and prepare most of my meals from scratch.
Blessing to you.
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Hi Veronica,
Cheese is NOT part of the Daniel Fast since all animal products are prohibited. Canned foods are okay as long as they are sugar-free and chemical free. Again, READ THE LABEL.
Hoping the best for you!
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:16 pm
Bethany, please look at the post about a Food Preparation Day. Also, the Daniel Fast Cookbook has a 21-Day Meal Plan that may help you.
God bless you on your fast!
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Hi Barbara,
Regarding TEA – I think people need to decide these issues on their own. For me, I’m a Daniel Fast “purist” and drink only water and on the very rare occasion fruit juice. The Fast is really a “water only” fast with the slipping in of 100% fruit and/or vegetable juice.
God bless you!
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Hi Kim,
Mushrooms are okay . . .
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:23 pm
Hi Deanna,
The headaches usually stop after about 3 days. It usually depends on how much your body is detoxifying. Be sure to drink lots of water.
Medicate if necessary and be sure to contact your health professional if you sense it could be something other than detox.
Blessing to you.
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2008 at 7:25 pm
Hi William
It’s a 21 day fast . . . so that would be 21 full days. Many people go longer and proceed to 40 days.
Blessings to you.
Jerry Paris said,
January 8, 2008 at 11:34 pm
I just wanted to say we just started the Daniel Fast on the 6th. of this month and I grew up on beans, rice, potatoes and vegtables and a plus plus for me is that I am a diabetic, so this is right down my alley. I know God will grant many petitions and I firmly believe their will be many revivals, during and after this fast. I am really looking forward to drawing closer to God. I pray for you all and MAY GOD BLESS!
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2008 at 5:53 am
Hi Jerry,
I am so glad to hear from you because many diabetic men and women write to me saying they have a hard time with the fast. I too thought that it would require few alterations for diabetics since it is such a healthy eating plan.
Bless you on your fast . . . and I might email you with some questions.
Ann B said,
January 9, 2008 at 8:16 am
Our church is doing a 21-day fast this month. The Daniel fast is recommended. I have known of the Daniel fast for years, but I agree with Bethany. By the time I figure out what to fix my family and adjust for the dietary needs of some, spend the extra time finding appropriate recipes, the extra shopping and food preparation time, I’m having less time to spend in Bible reading and prayer than I did before the fast. The different descriptions of it now are so much more legalistic than the descriptions in the past. I feel like I’m defeating the purpose of the fast as I have to concentrate on these prohibitions, some of which seem quite contradictory to me.
Hunnytree said,
January 9, 2008 at 2:00 pm
I had hot water with lemon and a bit of Stevia in it today, oatmeal with raisins, and plan to have veggie soup (sweet potatoes, carrots, cabbage, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, celery) for dinner. Tomorrow I plan to have whole wheat spaghetti with marinara sauce for dinner. Veggie salad with balalmic vinegarette for lunch. I am giving this Daniel fast to the Lord for my children and grandchildren. They have needs that I know the Lord will supply. Salvation, deliverance, healing, protecton and security. Praise the Lord God Almighty. Thanks for this blog. It is good to read about others committing unto the Lord in a day when the very word committment seems to be a national joke.
Adrienne said,
January 9, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Hello,
Thank you so much for your ministry! This is my second year doing the Daniel Fast. I found scriptures to pray for “blessings & favor” during week one, “new spiritual power” during week two, and “fresh annointing” during week 3. I found it so inspiring and 2007 was year where I saw a spiritual strength I had never seen before! I’m looking forward to seeing what 2008 brings forth. This is a great way to start off every year.
My question for discussion is what do you think about Boca Burgers and other veggie substitutes for meat? Are these in line with what Daniel would have eaten? I’m thinking they may have preservatives. But they do say they “vegetarian.”
Thanks in advance for your guidance!
God bless!
Adrienne
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Hi Adrienne,
Thanks for the report. God is so good and as we draw closer to Him we understand more of His ways and how to tap into the supernatural power of God.
I don’t use Boca Burgers or veggie burgers, but the big deal is to READ THE LABEL. Keep your eye out to make sure they are sugar-free and chemical-free.
I hope the very best for you on your fast. Exepct great things. We have a powerful God who delivers!
mary-anne moshofsky said,
January 9, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Hello susan,
because I have some health issues, I already eat no sugar or flour or bread. I suppose not eating meat for twenty one days will work. Is this also about no salt? I have to have some to stay alive. I also need some fats in my skin. Are nuts and nut butter enough for most folks?
thanks.
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2008 at 6:24 pm
Hi Mary-Anne,
Yes, salt is fine as are all quality vegetable oils. Actually, the Daniel Fast is a very health eating plan rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Take a look at the Food List and review the recipes. You also might be interested in the Daniel Fast Cookbook since it offers enough recipes for the full fast period and includes menu plans for the 21-day fast.
God bless you on your fast!
Hunnytree said,
January 9, 2008 at 6:28 pm
To: Bethany ~~ Just some thoughts. If you make a nice big pot of vegetable soup – kind of like the one I mentioned – and cook a nice big pot of brown rice – you will have things in the frij that you can eat for a few days – and not have to worry every day about making everything. Also make a big salad and put it in your frij without everything in it. Slice up some of those wonderful yellow and red peppers, red onion, mushrooms, olives, etc., and put them in separate containers so you have a virtual salad bar in your frij. You can just dole out some soup, some salad, etc. for your meals, and then start over again. Oatmeal for breakfast with raisins – I make more than one day’s worth and put extra in the frij for the next day. Hope these ideas are helpful
) ~~Hunnytree
Vicki Muraoka said,
January 10, 2008 at 11:06 am
Hi Just a hint. I hate the flavor of wheat so i put onion and garlic powder in my brown rice before i cooked it and now i love it. also i put it in the wheat torlla recipe and cooked it also after i cooked the torallas i put olive oil on them and seasoning salts and cut in pie shapes and baked until crisp and served them with salsa. beans and other items . one more hint is to cook popcorn with the oil and then add cinommon and nuts and raisins and toss. this has been good for my husband as he drives different places for his job and this has helped him in place of coffee. thanks for the site and the recipes
Faith said,
January 10, 2008 at 1:43 pm
What about non-microwaveble popcorn as a snack, cooked in olive oil. Is this acceptable.
rachel said,
January 10, 2008 at 1:57 pm
1.these rye cracker i bought have whole rye, corn bran salt and caraway – is that ok?
2.also the soy milk has organic soymilk, organic rice syrup, sea salt- is that ok?
3.lastly (i think) the Azumaya tofu has water, wholesoybeans, soy protein calcium sulfate, magnesium chloride, vit E Acetate
Lynda Depeel said,
January 10, 2008 at 2:05 pm
I am thrilled to have found this site. When our pastor announced plans for the fast, I had no idea that God was leading so many others around the world to do the same thing. I believe as we add our faith together that we believe that a move of God is beginning, and that He is waiting on our consecration to accomplish more than we can ask or think in our lives and ministries. I pray that God blesses you mightily in this endeavor.
Susan Gregory said,
January 11, 2008 at 10:18 am
Hi Faith,
Yes, popcorn is acceptable. I suggest using a different oil. Perhaps canola or peanut oil since they are better for high temperaturs.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 11, 2008 at 10:19 am
Hi Rachel,
All the foods you mentioned are within the guidelines. Often times, food additions sound like artificial chemicals when in fact they are natural substances. That’s what is going on with the tofu.
Be blessed and thanks for your questions.
Elin Rehfeld said,
January 11, 2008 at 12:43 pm
Hi Susan,
Thanks for your site! I am very excited that I will be starting my first Daniel fast tomorrow and I had a question about fasting in general. With regard to Matthew 6:17, is it ok to talk to people about my fast if the discussion is positive and I am not complaining or being negative? Or should I try, for the most part, to keep it between myself and God?
Elin
mags said,
January 11, 2008 at 2:24 pm
ok here is my problem. I like foods like a five year old. Fruits – apple, banana, cantelope – thats it. veggies – broccoli, spinich, lettuce – thats it. I have been doing this for 3 days now and all I have had is banana, oatmeal, lettuce, cashews, juice (I know we shouldnt but I am too limited without it. ) Most of the other foods on the blog i dont like either. brown rice – yes – I just didnt know till I got here that it was allowed. if anyone has any suggestions for someone with such a limited menu, please let me know. I WILL last but I dont want to starve to death either. I am not overweight so I dont have room to lose. Also, we should remember all here on this blog in our fasting prayers. God bless you all.
Barbara said,
January 11, 2008 at 6:39 pm
If the majority of the above bloggers would just buy the Cookbook, alot of the above questions to Susan would already be answered. Just as important, Susan is using the money for the cookbook in a way that allows her to be able to do this blog instead of something else. We all need to support her in this effort as it is a tremendous help in the fast and more importantly, it is an inspiration to those of us that are seeking God’s will in our lives by fasting.
I also had lots of questions until I purchased the Cookbook for just 8.95. The Cookbook gives you all the guidelines and numerous recipes that is not included on this blog. It is a great book and hopefully Susan can continue this blog, because she is using the proceeds to allow her that luxury.
Also, some of the suggestions from other bloggers are great in expanding my knowledge in the right foods, recipes as well as the spiritual growth. Thanks to all of you.
Love your site Susan and it is a great support and encouragement reading all the blogs from you as well as the many other bloggers. May God continue to supply your needs and bless you in your dedication to this blog.
Susan, Another blogger asked the question how to send a donation to help support your ministry.. Can you give that info out to those of us that may want to send support, Love your dedication and may God bless you!
Susan Gregory said,
January 11, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Barbara, I just sent you a personal email to let you know how much I appreciate your kind words. They were definately timely and very appreciated.
I added my contact information to the “Who Is the Daniel Fast Blogger” page. Thank you so much . . . this is all very humbling!
Tonya Rose said,
January 13, 2008 at 7:04 am
Thank you so much for the information about
the Daniel Fast it has been so helpful to me. I
want to know if you mess up by eating some-
thing that you thought was ok to eat and now
you know it’s not ok can you continue on the
fast. I love the Lord and I pray that he forgive
me. I want to finish the fast the right way.
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2008 at 7:57 am
Good morning Tonya Rose,
Yes! Yes! Yes! Stay on the Fast! It is all good. It’s just like our behavior. Sometimes we get it wrong, but Jesus is always there to forgive us and return us to perfect standing with God!
Bless you on your fast!
Fran Lujan -Colorado said,
January 13, 2008 at 12:52 pm
One of my questions is dry fruits other than raisans allowed on the Daniels fast. Like cranberries, apples, prunes, pears and peaches etc. I’m concerned about the sugar factor.
I did a three day fast on water,except one morning I drank about a fourth of a cup of !00% fruit juice because I could feel my sugar drop and got weak. And now I’m doing the 21 day Daniel fast.
Anyway I like dried fruit and don’t want to it if it is not right! Thanks so much!
darin d dixon said,
January 13, 2008 at 12:57 pm
this is my first fast can I drink protein shakes I’m a natural weight lifter and need about 250 grams of protein a day darin
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Hi Darin,
A fast should ALWAYS be safe for your body and do no harm. Going without enough protein could certainly bring harm to your body.
Athletes are like pregnant women, diabetics and others with special health needs. Adjusting the Daniel Fast for this special need is totally appropriate. If you find the best way to do that is with protein drinks, then feel in agreement with the fast to make that change.
I hope the very best for you on your fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Hi Fran,
All fruits and vegetables are allowed on the Daniel fast and they can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned.
Also, one of the central practices on the Daniel Fast is to READ THE LABELS on all foods to make sure they are sugar-free and chemical-free.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Anthony said,
January 13, 2008 at 3:34 pm
Hi Susan, I purchased both your books and think they are very good and spirit led. I wanted to ask your opinion about the snacks.I know this is a fast and when setting up a meal plan,how many snacks should a person have thoughout the day? I know there is no guidline to this, but what are your thoughts regarding it…Thank-You in advance for your reply…
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Hi Anthony,
Thank you for your very kind words about the books and for your good question about snacks during the Daniel Fast.
There really aren’t any restrictions to the amount of food eaten on the Daniel Fast. I’ve thought and prayed about this a lot, and have had to wrestle with the question of snacks for myself. Here is my conclusion:
The Daniel Fast is a very healthy eating plan. Our bodies should actually be in better condition after the fast than before. I have been on the fast since January 6th and I have lost six pounds and my body is definitely liking what I am feeding it!
When I first started on the fast I found myself snacking on nuts and rice cakes spread with peanut butter. When I took into account the calories these snacks were adding to me daily intake, I realized I was really packing them in ! I also didn’t feel very good after eating too many nuts. So I made an adjustment and now measure a small serving of nuts (about 1/4 cup) and that’s all I eat for a snack. I also don’t eat the rice cakes and peanut butter for a snack anymore, but rather might have it for breakfast or lunch along with a piece of fresh fruit.
This is kind of a long answer, but I think it comes down to listening to your body and listening to the Lord. We don’t need to go hungry, but the Daniel Fast is a time to present our bodies as a living sacrifice unto the Lord. This is a time when we can care for our physical temple better than usual, and hopefully gain some new habits that will remain long after the fast is complete.
I hope that helps … a big rambling but you got my “thoughts on paper.”
Blessings to you for during your fast.
Lorrie said,
January 13, 2008 at 5:06 pm
Susan,
Thanks for all the helpful information.
I really apprieciate your goal of being led by the Holy Spirit in how we approach this time of fasting. God is really going to bless this year. I have been fasting for 7 days and I was struck today with all the ‘wonders’ he has planned within my life. I was led to see it as… “Just wait and see what I can do”. It left me so excited and expectant for people’s lives to be touched!
I bought the cookbook and think that it is a great way of opening the mind to what is possible to eat on the fast.
I have a question, are there any other ingridient names that are ok, but sound like a chemical name (ie, the one from above calcium sulfate, magnesium chloride, vit E Acetate)?
Thanks so much!
With the Love and Peace of Christ,
Lorrie
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2008 at 5:43 pm
Hi Lorrie,
You are so kind. Thank you for your thoughtful words. They bless my heart. I am humbled to have this honor of communicating with men and women all over the world about the Daniel Fast. God is so good! I too am expecting great things in this New Year of New Beginnings. Our truly believe that our powerful God is going to show us more of Himself than we have ever seen. I also believe He is raising an army to bring the truth of His Son to the masses with signs and wonders. Yeah! What a great time to be alive.
You raise a very good question about chemicals in food. There are many that are natural chemicals and okay to consume. Natural ascorbic acid is a natural preservative and is vitamin C and listed on many food products. Since I am not familiar with all the natural chemical names I can’t list them here. But what I do is stick to organic prepareed foods whenever possible and when in doubt — put the food item back on the shelf. There are so many foods that I can chose from without any chemicals that I don’t worry too much about those that might not be chemical free.
Bless you on your fast. I will try to do more research on this!
bpman said,
January 13, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Your site is a wonderful help. I am entering my second week of the fast, I have never seen so many people fasting and praying as I am seeing in this time. The Holy Spirit is definately moving among Gods people, I believe we are going to see great things happen.
My question is this. I havnt been able to find any guidelines about how often you should eat while you are fasting. Any direction would help.
God bless.
bp
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Hello bp,
Thanks for your kind words about the site . . . and yes, this is an exciting time as thousands of believers throughout the world draw closer to God by starting the year with prayer and fasting!
Regarding your question about how often to eat on the fast . . . there are not any restrictions as to the number of times or when one can eat. So one can consume food whenever her or she desires. I always encourage people to keep in mind that they are on a fast and that while going hungry is not necessary, gluttony is out of order.
Thanks for the question. Bless you on your fast!
Bob Lavallee said,
January 14, 2008 at 7:58 am
Hi,
The weight watchers
garden veg. soup is good start. (with variations)
Sautee 2/3 cup carrot’s & 1/2 cup onions, little garlic,
Add 3 cups Chichen broth (all Natural) add a small dab of 100% natural tomatoe paste and about 2cups of cabbage (I used organic) bring to boil, simmer for 15 Min. Optional Greenbeans / zucchini / oregano / basil. skip the salt.
Susan Gregory said,
January 14, 2008 at 8:36 am
Hi Bob,
The recipe sounds great and easy to make. For those who don’t use Chicken Broth while on the Daniel Fast, I am sure Vegetable Broth would work as well.
Thanks for sharing the recipe and I hope the very best for you on your fast!
Blessings to you!
Tracy said,
January 14, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Is salt permissable on this fast? I was told that all seasonings were to be avoided. Is this clearly up to the individual?
Susan Gregory said,
January 14, 2008 at 1:23 pm
Hi Tracy,
I try to base all the foods to be consumed or restricted on the scriptures available to us or the Jewish dietary laws of the time. There is nothing that says we should eliminate salt or other seasonings in any of the research I have done.
There are many who develop the Daniel Fast on their interpretation. One thing is that it is not a “health food” fast. But rather based on the information from chapters 1 and 10 in the Book of Daniel. All chemicals and eliminated for obvious reason.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Daniel & Brenda Tessener said,
January 14, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Hey,
Somehow I never got append. one and two for the 2008 cookbook. I only realized this after getting the third one today.
Daniel and I are really glad for the cookbook because we were so wrapped up last year in what we could make to eat that the whole fast became our worst nightmare!
Thanks again for all your hard work keeping us brothers and sisters in Christ on the right path during this fasting period.
Brenda
Gale Butler said,
January 14, 2008 at 7:49 pm
God Bless You! Thanks for all the info. It will certainly help with the fast.
Paul said,
January 14, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Thank you very much, for this site. In the short time I’ve come upon it, I’ve told many people about it. The Lord bless you through and through, body, soul & spirit!
Brittany said,
January 15, 2008 at 10:37 am
If we can eat whole grains, what does this include?
audrey leonard said,
January 15, 2008 at 11:03 am
I just started to day do you have any scriptures that I can meditate on?
thank you.
jackiejames said,
January 15, 2008 at 11:05 am
Our church is doing the Daniel Fast only on Tues and Thurs, I would like to know can I have tuna fish along with crackers or salmon with this fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Hi JackieJames,
No, all animal products are restricted on the Daniel Fast. However, a great snack with excellent protein is peanut butter on rice cakes or some other kind of “cracker” that is free of dairy, sugar and chemicals.
God bless you on your fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Hi Brittany,
The whole grains that can be used on the Daniel Fast include but are not limited to whole wheat, brown rice, barley, buckwheat, millet, oats, corn (including popcorn) and quinoa.
Whole grains are cereal grains that retain the bran and germ as well as the endosperm, in contrast to refined grains, which retain only the endosperm.
I hope this helps. Blessings to you on your fast!
Jackie said,
January 15, 2008 at 6:43 pm
I am on my 6th day of the Daniel Fast and i most say this is an Awesome way to get closer to God. THANKS BE TO GOD, GOD IS AWESOME. Every evening i log on this website and read people stories, questions and suggestions and this gives me teary eyes, i most say. This shows how people are hungry for God, wanted to get closer relationship with our Father, finding answers, restoration and breakthrough, anointing, favor, directions and blessings. IN THE NAME OF JESUS may all your heart desires be granted.
Susan may God continue to bless u in a mighty way for taking the time and putting all the menues together and helping in this Daniel Fast.
Derek said,
January 15, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Hi Susan, Greetings from Saudi Arabia, where many of my brothers and sisters are following the Daniel Fast.
Quick question…..why don’t you use coconut milk in any of your recipes?
Please keep up this great work, may the Lord bless you for being so obedient.
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Hello Derek.
I am so glad to hear from you! God bless you and your friends!
Coconut milk is acceptable on the fast, but it is not a common ingredient in North America. I would love it if you could send me some of the recipes you use in Saudi Arabia and I will publish them on the site.
People who visit the site are very encouraged when they can read messaged from you and others from around the world. Please visit us often and let us know how you and our other brothers and sisters in Christ in Saudi Arabia are doing.
I hope the very best for you on the Daniel Fast. Please pass my blessings along to the others.
SAMIE said,
January 16, 2008 at 12:54 am
THANK YOU SO MUCH SUSAN FOR THIS WEBSITE.
GOD BE WITH YOU
BLANCHE TAYLOR said,
January 16, 2008 at 6:51 am
DEAR SUSAN: I STARTED THE DANIEL FAST ON MONDAY, SINCE MY CHURCH
ISN’T DOING THIS I PRAYED FOR SOMEONE TO DO THE FAST WITH AND
I STUMBLED ON THIS WEBSITE PRAISE GOD. NOW I AM CONNECTED TO SO MANY PEOPLE. I LOVE READING WHAT GOD IS DOING IN OTHER PEOPLE LIVES, IT’S
ENCOURAGING. ALL MY QUESTIONS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED AND I HAVE NO MORE DOUBTS– I CAN DO THIS. THANKS SUSAN, YOU ARE A GOD-SENT.
joni said,
January 16, 2008 at 10:19 am
oops! wrong email! I’ll try again.
Are olives acceptable on this fast?
Pia said,
January 16, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Hello Susan and everyone reading this!
Our church, Christian Assembly, in Eagle Rock, California just suffered a great blow! Our Christian friend, Walter, who regularly ministered to the homeless on Skid Row (in downtown L.A.) was overcome by the spiritual dark forces and suddenly killed his girlfriend, her mother and then himself just last Thurs. (01/10/08) after a big argument. Needless to say, those of us who ministered with Walter, as well as, others in the church who knew all three, are still reeling from the pain of this most painful of tragedies. One of our friends suggested a Daniel Fast to counter these spiritual demonic forces that are striking hard at us from all sides! She told us to google “Daniel Fast” and that is how I found this website. I have since told all our friends at Christian Assembly about this (we have an extensive email network) and I am encouraging them to join me in a Daniel Fast I am starting this Sun. (01/20/08). Please keep me and my friends in prayer as we seek the Lord during this fast so that He might send us personal and corporate revival and restoration!!! Truly what the enemy meant for evil will definitely be used by the Lord for good in 2008!!!
Susan Gregory said,
January 17, 2008 at 5:10 am
Good morning, Joni.
Yes, olives are fine, but be sure to READ THE LABEL to make sure they are not processed with chemicals.
Bless you on your fast.
FullyJoyful said,
January 17, 2008 at 8:43 am
Hi there, I just wanted to add a few things for recipes.
I have purchased Cans of Organic Rice and Beans from Eden Organic.
The ingredients are Water, Organic Ludberg Brown Rice, Organic Black Turle Beans, Organic Onion Flakes, Organic Paprika Powder, Organic Garlic powder, Sea Salt, Organic Cumin Powder Organic Cayenne Pepper, Organic Cinnamon Powder. And it taste really good plus they have a few other combinations of beans.
I made black beans and added chunky medium salsa to the it and it came out beautiful. The recipe was given to me by the chef at the Chilis Restaurant during my fast last year and I just know it was a blessing from God. It’s so delicious, and I added a bit of cayenne pepper to it.
I also have green bananas which are really good with sauteed onions and tomato using olive oil.
From Jamaica
I’m planning on making soup using pumpkin, I will just cut up about 2 cups worth of calabash pumkin (mash it up really good) that will make the soup thick, then I will add some sea salt, potatoes, carrots, white yam and yellow yam and some hot jamaican peppers and thyme. I know it’s going to be good.
From West Africa
Also, I’m going to make peanut butter sauce by using a can of tomato sauce and natural peanut butter, then I will add potato, eggplant, but any other veggies can be added. I prefer a bit of hot pepper or cayenne as well.
From Italy
I also bought Ronzoni Healthy Harvest Whole Wheat Blend Pasta and I’m going to have it with natural marinara pasta sauce made with sicilian tomatoes and olive oil. I also want to sautee some onions, and green, red, and yellow peppers in oil with a bit of soy sauce.
Middle Eastern/Mediteranean/Africa
I don’t know if anyone knows about couscous but it’s really good and they have some made of whole durum whole wheat. You can eat it with beans or top it on salad like crushed croutons. It’s like rice in a way, it’s fluffy and light and it taste good with just about anything.
Spanish
Later I have in mind a spanish style brown rice using corn, olives, olive oil,
tomato sauce.
Jamaican
Also I want to make some jamaican ackee which is really a fruit, it’s yellow and it reminds me of tomatoes because it’s not sweet.
I would sautee onions and tomatoes in olive oil and then just add a can of Ackee and season to taste. I will eat it with boiled yellow, and white yams, and potatoes, and green bananas.
I pray that my ideas are helpful and delicious.
God bless you all and may you have the desires of your hearts in Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Susan Gregory said,
January 17, 2008 at 8:46 am
Thanks for all the recipes! I know others will also enjoy them.
Bless you on your fast.
FullyJoyful said,
January 17, 2008 at 8:46 am
Pardon, when I say that I want to sautee onion, peppers and soy sauce that is as an alternative to marinara sauce. I can of imagine that to be Like chinese
Lo Mein.
God bless you all in Jesus’ name!
Debora said,
January 17, 2008 at 10:40 am
Hello! My husband and I are wanting to do the Daniel fast and I’ve been cruising the web on the subject. We would like to get your cookbook, but he asked me to find out if there is an actual book we can order so that we don’t have to print it out. Home printed pages in my kitchen don’t last very long :/ I would be using the cookbook year round as my husband is allergic to all meat except fish and seafoods. Now to find a cookbook that does justice to fish! Thank you to all for your comments and questions…I found them very informative, and to Susan for your prayer, research, and understanding on this subject. You had me when you stated that you got a “check” on a certain food. May we all have a walk close enough with our Lord to recognize His checks and nudges.
Susan Gregory said,
January 17, 2008 at 11:09 am
Hi Debora,
The book is only available as a download. But you can do what I do and put it in a three-ring binder. Because of the free recipes that I send every week to those who buy the cookbook, it’s up to about 100 pages now so a binder would help to keep it organized and all together.
Blessings to you and your husband on the fast. And thanks for the kind comments.
Anthony Valenti said,
January 17, 2008 at 5:06 pm
Hi Susan,
I was reading the posts today and I came across the one from Debora re the cookbook download. I purchased the cookbook and the download was 79 pages total but to date, I have not received any additional recipes. Could you please email them to me.
Thanks!
Anthony
PS- I am on my 17th day of the Daniel Fast and I am so glad that I found your website. Many Blessings to you!
MARLENE said,
January 18, 2008 at 6:13 am
Hi Susan
Our church has commenced our 21 day Daniel fast on 14/01/08. I am on my fifth day. While surfing I find your website and it has been a great help.I find it easy an time saving to boil extra brown rice. I stir fry veggies, eg. grated carrots, sliced peppers, mushrooms, onions and string beans. I mix it with the rice and store it in the refrigerator. The rice has a lovely colour because of the carrots, so it looks and tastes good.
May the Lord bless you for your good work.
Marlene
Susan Gregory said,
January 18, 2008 at 6:22 am
Hi Anthony,
I send additonal recipes each week to the buyers of the Daniel Fast Cookbook. This lasts through the month of January. Since you have purchased the cookbook, I will see what happened. You should have received them. Please check your spam catcher . . . and meanwhile, I will send you the additions in a separate email.
God bless you on your fast!
Stacie said,
January 18, 2008 at 9:31 am
Hello, I will be starting the Daniel Fast this Sunday with my church. This is the first time I have ever done a Fast of this kind. Please pray for my strength. Also what if any kind of salad dressing can we eat. Thanks for the support
Susan Gregory said,
January 18, 2008 at 10:34 am
Hi Stacie,
I find making my own salad dressings is the best because most prepared dressings include sugar and/or chemicals. You will find that my battle cry is READ THE LABELS, which I suggest you do when you shop. There are a few dressings in the Natural Foods section of larger grocery stores or in Health Food Stores that are sugar-free and chemical-free. I hope you have the Daniel Fast Cookbook as there are several recipes for salad dressing in it.
Bless you on your fast!
William Rinehart said,
January 19, 2008 at 8:55 am
Is meatless chili OK on the daniel fast?
Susan Gregory said,
January 19, 2008 at 11:07 am
Hi William,
Yes, vegetarian chili is okay as long as it’s sugar-free and chemical-free.
Do you have the Daniel Fast Cookbook. My favorite recipe for Vegetarian Chili is in the cookbook under Main Dishes. It’s also on this site under Soups and Stews.
Blessings to you on your fast!
SAMIE said,
January 19, 2008 at 11:53 pm
SUSAN I PURCHASED YOUR COOK BOOK AND TRIED
THE VEGETABLE CHILE RECIPE. IT WAS GOOOOD.
WATCH OUT WHEN YOU GET THE CANNED CHILIES. I FORGOT TO READ LABEL
UNTIIL AFTER I HAD PUT THE CAN IN THE CHILI , IT HAD TWO OTHER THINGS IN THERE I WAS NOT SURE OF, AND I TOOK THEM OUT. IT WAS STILL VERY GOOD
GOD BLESS YOU
Dawn said,
January 20, 2008 at 6:54 am
Susan,
I was wondering if canned foods containing citric acid are ok. I know the fast says no chemicals, but I have not found tomatoes or sauce not containing it. Thanks for what you are doing. It is great to see people being creative with their food.
Dawn
louise said,
January 21, 2008 at 1:58 am
Hi my name is louise, from uk England
Our Church begin the fast today 21st jan, I have been looking all for a while now for things to cook as we have 6 children who are doing this with us these letters are so encouraging as we knew this was going to be hard, and when i read all the letters of people all over the world who have completed this it gives me hope that we too can do this, Is this ture that you can use brown rice? God Bless louise.
Lee said,
January 21, 2008 at 6:02 am
Hello Susan, my husband Kent and I are starting the 21 day Daniel fast today on the 21st. We’ve never done this before and I’ve never been good at fasting and that is my prayer and that’s why we’re doing this. Thank you for this site and your resources and helpful tips. Please pray for us and for strength.
May Jesus Christ shine brightly on you today!
Lee
Susan Gregory said,
January 21, 2008 at 9:30 am
Hello Louise from the UK,
Thanks for your message. We love hearing from other believers all over the world!
Yes, brown rice is okay as are all whole grains. Have you purchased the Daniel Fast Cookbook? It’s an immediate download, and even though you are in the UK, you can print it out and use the recipes that I think you and your whole family will enjoy. It also has 21 days of meal plans so it is very useful. I have received excellent comments from those who have the cookbook, so you might want to consider it.
I also send between 6-8 new recipes to the buyer every Monday along with fasting and cooking tips. Plus, I send a devotional six days a week (I take Sunday off). It’s a great value. You can purchase it through PayPal by following the links. It will just take your credit card information, give you the best conversion rate, and then you get directions for the download.
Blessings to you and your family. I hope the very best for you on your fast.
thegreatone336 said,
January 22, 2008 at 7:52 am
Hello Susan,
Greetings and Blessings from Word of Faith Prophetic Ministries and we would like to thank you for this site and your help with the Daniel Fast. We end our fast tonight at midnight and it has been astronomical the way God has moved in our ministry. This is only the beginning for what God has for the body of Christ this year and I for one cannot wait to see what else God has in store for His children.
Apostle Johnny Mitchell
http://wofpm.wordpress.com
Susan Gregory said,
January 22, 2008 at 8:10 am
Good morning Mitchell’s,
Bless you and thanks for all of your encouragement with this blog. I pray for a great outpouring on your ministry as you continue to serve our King!
Shalom (nothing missing, nothing broken),
Susan
Alecia said,
January 22, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Susan,
Thanks so much for this very informative site. I wanted to know if I would receive all the update to the cook book up to this point. I think in one of the post you said that you send out recipies on Monday’s.
Susan Gregory said,
January 22, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Hi Alecia,
Yes, all buyers receive all the updates I have issued to date, not matter when you purchase the Daniel Fast Cookbook.
I hope the best for you on your fast.
Melissa said,
January 23, 2008 at 11:39 am
What are your thoughts on chewing gum and mints?
Susan Gregory said,
January 23, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Hi Melissa,
Gum and mints are not allowed on the Daniel Fast being that both contain sugar and or chemicals. I have suggested that people who really do need their breath freshened to either check out what might be available at a health food store or use natural products like mint or parsley eaves, cinnamon stick or sucking on clove buds.
I hope this helps and bless you on your fast.
Little Aussie Gal said,
January 23, 2008 at 10:31 pm
was watching Jentzen Franklin last night, who was speaking about the fast his church was on, and I got “Crunched” by the Holy Spirtit to get cracking if i was truly serious about drawing nearer to God.
He spoke of a 3 day fast then the Daniel fast. After hitting his site for Info, and found his books, but nothing on the Daniel Fast, headed to Google, and found you!, have got lotsa info by reading the blogs.
I’ve done 3 day fast’s before, without to much drain, and gained lots!
However, a previous question remindes me of my “caffine head aches” I own a coffee shop, but only drink 1 -2 cups per day, and during my preivous fasts i’ve discovered that the headaches were too much too bear, no matter how much water i drank, and i felt tablets well, wouldn’t crack it for me. so i’ve moved to drink 1 sml cup of black coffee (nothing added) and that seems to keep me going thru without the headaches.
As you’ve previously mentioned, i don’t get hung up about this one sml thing. Moving to the Daniel fast after these 3 days, will be interesting and i may try to flick the coffee again for it….. but well the Time spent with God, drawing Nearer to Him, is not going to be greatly affected by a small (and that’s an Australian Small, which is tiny compared to the American small size : ) cup of black coffee…
Anyway, wanted to thank you for a most informative web site that has helped me get going, i’ll be sure to pass it on to others in my Church!
Target126 said,
January 24, 2008 at 10:11 am
Thanks for all of your helpful info. My question is: How many meals should you eat and portion size to avoid overeating?
Thanks for your response.
Tecia Kirven said,
January 24, 2008 at 12:52 pm
Thanks for such a wonderful website. I am going to start the Daniels fast on 02/06/08…I have been a Christian for almost eight years and have lost a lot of my passion and love for God. I am praying that this fast, help me grow closer to Jesus…
Susan Gregory said,
January 24, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Hello Target,
I think this is a matter of prayer. It’s important to keep in mind that this is a fast and not just a “natural food diet.” There is a big difference. That’s why I stay away from substitutes as I believe overcoming the cravings is a critical element of the fast.
If we are being aware, we know when we are eating too much. That’s when it’s time to quiet the flesh and “push the plate away.”
I hope this helps and blessings to you on your fast.
Kathy said,
January 25, 2008 at 1:00 pm
What about Agave Nectar – is that allowed? Its a great natural sweetener, and is vegan.
Sarah DeSalvo said,
January 25, 2008 at 7:39 pm
This is a great site !
I was just wondering why other foods are allowed on the Daniel Fast Guidelines (outside of fruits, vegetables, and water) if that’s all Daniel and his friends ate in Daniel 1 ??
I was just wondering if there was other basis for why we could have beans for example and whole grain cereals, soy milk and rice ? (and is that a certain kind of rice only?
Just Curious as I start my fast
-Sarah
Susan Gregory said,
January 26, 2008 at 10:16 am
Hi Kathy,
Actually, it’s not about “natural” but rather that agave nectar is a sweetener. So that would make it not acceptable, just like honey, maple syrup, raw sugar and cane juice are not allowed.
Blessings to you!
Susan Gregory said,
January 26, 2008 at 10:31 am
Hi Sarah,
The Daniel Fast is based on Daniel 1 and 10. In Chapter 1 he ate only vegetables and drank only water. In Chapter 10 he ate no meat or delicate foods and drank no wine for 21 days.
So from these passages, today’s Daniel Fast has been developed. Also, Jewish dietary laws are considered. So all vegetables, all fruits, all whole grains, etc.
With that said, there is a lot of room for interpretation. So I try to keep the integrity of the scripture along with common sense and some judgment calls.
I hope this helps. Blessings to you on your fast.
Rosalinda Castillo said,
January 26, 2008 at 11:23 am
Hello there Susan just wanted to say thanks for being an obedient vessel to help people throughout the world to do an acurate Daniel Fast so that they can consecrate themselves to the Lord mind ,body, and soul this is my first time and my mother and I decided to come in aggreement together for our dynamic breakthrough with Christ that we may reach another level of intimacy with God. I’m so excited about it that I dreamed me doing the fast LOL ! thats so funny also started my goal to read the entire bible this year and well as i dreamed that I was fasting
I also dreamed everything I had read in the bible as If I was seeing a movie isn’t that something. I know God is putting in in his children’s hearts to fast for this is a year of NEW BEGINNINGS and GREAT EXSPECTATIONS IN GOD>>>>>BE ABUNDANTLY BLESS>>>…..
Minita said,
January 26, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Hey Susan,
Thanks for a wonderful site with great information. I have a question for you: you mentioned that juices must be 100% all natural and contain no sugars. When I look on the back of the label under the nutrition facts some indicate that there is 19g of sugar (and others more). But, when I look at the ingredients listed sugar is not there. What does this mean? Can I drink it or not? (I also see this on some food items). Thanks.
Kathy said,
January 26, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Thanks for responding regard Agave Nectar — I now wonder why Stevia is ok? Its a natural sweetener like the others as well. I’m curious to the distinction, and I want to be prepared before my husband and I start the fast.
Kathy said,
January 26, 2008 at 3:55 pm
I would also like to say that I think this is a fabulous website, with a wealth of information, and I thank you for taking the time to respond to the many questions.
God Bless
Susan Gregory said,
January 26, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Hi Kathy,
Thanks for your kind words about the site. I love being used of the Lord in this way! It’s a real honor.
Steevia is one of those “on the line” issues. I don’t use it because I am more of a Daniel Fast purist. However, a lot of people do because it’s an herb, has no calories and while it tastes sweet . . . it is totally different from sugar, honey, etc.
I know it’s a fine line. Again all this up for interpretation. That’s why I think it’s really important to pray about these “gray matters” and seek the Lord’s advice and leading.
I hope the very best for you and your husband on your fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 26, 2008 at 4:26 pm
Hi Minita,
As long as sugar is not an ingredient, it’s okay. The sugar on the caloric breakdown is the natural sugar contained in the juice. They need to list this for people who have issues with sugar content, like those with diabetes.
Bless you!
PHYLLIS said,
January 27, 2008 at 3:34 pm
I have low blood sugar .Would this fast hurt me or will it be ok. I feel that the Lord is telling me to fast. But…
I also don’t want to go to low.
Thanks God Bless
Phyllis
Susan Gregory said,
January 27, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Hi Phyllis,
I encourage you to talk with your health care professional about this as I am just not sure. I do know that the Daniel Fast is very healthy, but I am not sure what you need to balance your low blood sugar.
My suggestion is to let your health provider know the Daniel Food guidelines. Then if you need to adjust it slightly, do that and have that be your fast. God will honor it . . .
Bless you!
Alecia said,
January 28, 2008 at 8:21 am
Good Morning!
I’m so excited! I started my fast yesterday and all the reading I’d done leading up to the day. I still found myself a little unprepared. For one thing, when I went in the grocery store, I didn’t have a list and I spent about 30 minutes in there and came out with a Bolt house juice and a canteloupe :>).. I really neve noticed how little thought I put into what I eat. When I stopped by the store this morning, I found myself really taking time to read lables and contemplating “Can I eat this or not” and even though it took some time, I really felt good about the fact that I was paying attention to what was going into my body.
Susan, I wanted to ask you what kind of rice cakes can we eat. I purchased the Quaker Multigran Cakes – Cinnamon Toast but the ingredients say natural and artificial flavors- Here are the ingreidiants: Whole grain brown rice flour, whole grain yellow corn, whole grain oat flour, sugar (3g) frutose, cornstarch, Maltodextrin, salt, sunflower oil with tocopherols added to preserve freshness, corn bran flour, mono and diglcerides, soy lecithin, caramel color, natural mided tochopherols…not sure what most of that means and I don’t want to make any mistakes, also is Salsa okay to eat?
God Bless You and everyone that’s apart of this.
Alecia
Susan Gregory said,
January 28, 2008 at 9:09 am
Hi Alecia,
I loved your post! Thanks for taking the time to write.
It is so true how little time and thought we put into our eating. That’s just one of the reasons America is so overweight and in such poor health! Remember the saying, “You are what you eat?” Well, we’re seeing it in our society right now!
Thanks for taking the time to READ THE LABELS when you shop since that answers so many of the questions about whether a food is okay or not. That will apply to salsa. It’s fine if it is chemical-free and sugar-free. I like to make my own since it’s fresher, less expensive and so much better for my health.
Rice cakes are my favorite snack for the Daniel Fast. I buy them in the natural foods section of my grocery store. The only ingredients are brown rice, sea salt and water. I live near Seattle, so I am not sure if the brand I buy is available in your location. But what I do know is that you should be able to find the same type in your area as so many people are now turning away from chemicals and processed foods and toward natural, chemical-free products.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Sue Carver said,
January 28, 2008 at 11:10 am
Can I have decaf tea w/ honey? the herbal ones?
Susan Gregory said,
January 28, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Hi Sue,
No, both herbal tea and honey are not allowed on the Daniel Fast. Most people find beverages the greatest area of sacrifice. I am one of them! I very much miss my morning coffee . . . but instead I drink hot water with lemon.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Paulett Newberns said,
January 29, 2008 at 10:05 am
Hi Susan,
This is such a blessing to me already! I am so glad that God directed me to your Website. I am starting my fast on Friday February 1,2008. Need to lay before the Lord about my relationship with my son. Just want to share, I am that person that just have to have that cup of tea in the morning. A suggestion to others, use fresh ginger root and boil it in water to make your “Ginger Tea”!
Blessings to you and let’s stay “On Our Toes For HIM!”
Paulette Newberns
asemmett said,
January 29, 2008 at 4:39 pm
Hi Susan,
I am finding your site very helpful, thanks for doing this. My wife and I are first time fasters (ending day 2 today), is there any advice you can give us? We are not big coffee drinkers yet we are expierencing the headache’s. Is Advil/Tylenol off limits? Also, I want to be corrected if I’m wrong…during the fast, we should not be concerened with all the foods we “can” eat and have those foods at our disposal at all times. This should be difficult and we should be hungry right? Thanks for all you do.
Adam
Woodstock, GA.
Susan Gregory said,
January 29, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Hi Adam,
Thanks for your kind words about the site. This is my blessing to be able to communicate with so many followers of Christ around the world.
You seem to be experiencing detox. I suggest you increase your water intake and also take about 1200 mg of vitamin C (some in the morning and some in the evening). Also eat bananas, cantaloupe and whole grains. If they are really bad and don’t subside with these means and prayer, that the Advil or whatever you prefer.
Regarding the amount of food you should eat and if the fast should be difficult: you don’t want to overeat on the fast or after it as that would be gluttony and totally against the will of God. Likewise, you shouldn’t try to find substitutes for all the foods you can’t have, since that would defeat the purpose.
But it’s okay to have healthy and enjoyable meals, keeping them simple and wholesome. If you find you need something more pressing or difficult out of your fast, you might eliminate wheat completely or keep it strictly fresh fruits and vegetables.
Since you are having the headaches, my guess is that you are changing your food intake in a fairly measurable way. After you pray about it and seek God’s wisdom and direction, you be the judge as to what you feel is best.
I hope this helps.
Will said,
January 30, 2008 at 11:15 am
In my preparation for my upcoming Fast, and quest for information on this, I have found your site a valuable resource. Thanks.
I have been reading the labels (as has been repeatedly recommended). Unfortunately, I have been unable to locate any Tofu without any added chemicals.
I understand the potential downfall with becoming too “legalistic” regarding this, yet am in agreement that it is important to keep consistent guidelines.
Any recommendations or suggestions?
Barry said,
January 31, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Are Whoppers OK for the Daniel fast??… Just kidding. :p
Susan Gregory said,
January 31, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Hi Barry,
Yes, Whoppers are fine as long as you wash them down with Coke!
Daniel & Brenda Tessener said,
February 1, 2008 at 7:35 am
PLEASE!
I never got the downloads for the first 2 additions to the cookbook and I want my cookbook up to date.
PLEASE send the link to JustFollowJesus@embarqmail.com
Christina Henley said,
February 5, 2008 at 3:48 pm
It is such a pleasant surprise to find this website. I started my Daniel fast today and I was pretty sure I did not want to include fish but this pretty much cleared up ANY question I had. I pray that God showed up for each of you in powerful ways! There are four couples, I think, doing it together to stand in the gap through prayer and fasting with and for each other. I am very excited to see the Glory of God!
God bless and thanks again.
Sister Flora at the Praise Village said,
February 6, 2008 at 11:58 pm
Good morning: Praises to Our Father God, the One God, Who is above all things and through all things and in us all; who has made yet another day for us to rejoice and be glad in it.
Your language ministers to my soul,Susan. The presentation of information, the scriptural encouragements and the soundness of approaching the Danial Fast confirms that beautiful promise from God that if we seek Him first and His righteousness, the rest shall be added to us. The Danial Fast Blog is some of the rest. Thank you.
I found you when one of the saints I fellowship with, Sister Ada, called me and asked me to guide her on her first Danial Fast. I started fasting over 38 years ago under the teaching of the Apostolic Faith Church. Since that time I have become more spiritually mature about fasting but I still felt a need to seek more current knowledge about the Danial Fast. The Holy Spirit led me to this site.
My heart ministered the knowledge from this site to Sister Ada. She had been exposed to many opinions about how to go about it and she was confused. At the conclusion of our fellowship, she was so at peace and grateful;prepared to begin her first Danial Fast next Monday. The love you share on this site spilled over onto Sister Ada tonight. She can’t access all this wonderful information about the Danial Fast because she is blind. She sits alone most days in a house waiting for her 2 little daughters to come home from school. I believe one of the reasons for her fast will be for the Lord to provide her with a voice activated computer designed for the blind so she can do more work for the Kingdom of God. She is a strong soldier in the army of the Lord and serves as an intercessor and prayer leader for our church and the Body of Christ. Susan,your labor shall not be in vain in the Lord.
Purplerose71 said,
February 7, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Susan, thank you so much for all you. I bless the Lord for you. I just thought I would pass on a website given to me by my son. It is the testimony of his teacher’s wifes’ miraculous healing. Watch and give God praise!! The website is http://www.cindysmiracle.com
Jeremiah said,
February 7, 2008 at 5:23 pm
First of ALL, I thank God for leading me to this site & want to thank you for this awesome ministry!
Now, What about people with diabetes? In the Daniel diet there is no sugar to be consumed, but there are concerns that if there is no sugar available for people with diabetes sugar level could get to low etc & that could be the last fast they ever do!…What would you recommend? Also does the cook book have any useful tips/recipes for those with Diabetes?…I know about 20 people at my church with diabetes who are wanting to go on this fast with me.
Thanks for your help and time
God Bless
Susan Gregory said,
February 7, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Hello Jeremiah,
Thank you for you kind words. This ministry is my blessing!
Regarding diabetes: it is critical to take the advice of your health provider. So s/he has the last word about diet and whether this fast is appropriate for you and others in your church.
I do know that many men and women with type 2 diabetes have actually been healed after switching to the Daniel Fast as their eating plan. Here are the suggestions for food intake for diabetics:
Eat less fat, especially less saturated fat (found in fatty meats, poultry skin, butter, 2% or whole milk, ice cream, cheese, palm oil, coconut oil, trans fats, hydrogenated oils, lard, and shortening).
Choose lean meats and meat substitutes.
Switch to low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
Cut back on foods that are high in cholesterol (such as egg yolks, high-fat meat and poultry, and high-fat dairy products).
Choose the kinds of fat that can help lower cholesterol, such as olive or canola oil. Nuts also have a healthy type of fat.
Eat fish two or three times a week, choosing kinds that are high in heart-protective fat (such as tuna and salmon).
Cook using low-fat methods (such as baking, roasting, or grilling foods or by using cooking sprays).
Eat more foods that are high in fiber (such as oatmeal, oat bran, dried beans and peas like kidney beans, fruits, and vegetables).
Eat less salt and sodium.
Most of these are totally consistent with the Daniel Fast. I suggest you make a copy of the Daniel Fast Food List and send it to your health provider. Ask for their recommendation.
I hope this helps.
Pam said,
February 10, 2008 at 7:29 am
Hi Susan,
I have read the blogs and want to say, Thank-U for this site, it has been very helpful. I am not new to fasting but have never been on a Daniel’s fast. I look forward to this fast (because of the great info) and spending the time I need to spend with our Lord and Savior. I believe God is going to meet me at my very need.
Blessing to you!
Pam
Bree said,
February 12, 2008 at 7:42 pm
To God Be The Glory! I was searching the web for fasting info. I am so blessed that He directed me to this site. I have obtained a lot of information on the Daniel Fast. A friend and I will be starting the Daniel Fast soon. Any suggestions for a first timer? Also, is apple juice allowed? I know, you’re going to say “read the label”. LOL Sometimes they’re a bit confusing. This is why I ask.
Thank you for your wonderful work with this site. Your labor is not in vain.
God Bless..
Susan Gregory said,
February 17, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Hi Bree,
I am sorry for this late reply. I have been “computer challenged” lately. My system is now up and running pretty well.
Congratulations about starting the Daniel Fast. All fruits and vegetables in their fresh, frozen, dried, canned and juiced state are acceptable. Make sure you READ THE LABELS of all products that you purchase to make sure they are sugar-free and chemical-free. I use 100% natural foods as often as possible. Also, read the ingredients instead of the nutritional content.
I encourage you to eat as many fresh and frozen vegetables as possible. That’s where you will get your best quality foods along with beans, brown rice and whole grain cereals. I encourage you to purchase The Daniel Fast Cookbook for enough recipes and menu ideas of several weeks.
Blessings to you and your friend as you seek God through prayer and fasting.
Anna Lewis said,
February 18, 2008 at 6:41 am
Can The Daniel fast cookbook be purchase in the store?
Susan Gregory said,
February 18, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Hi Anna,
No, the cookbook is only available as a download at this time. Let me know if you want to make some special arrangements where I can print it for you and send it via Priority Mail for a small charge to cover costs.
Blessings to you!
Bree said,
February 18, 2008 at 4:34 pm
What do I need to look for to avoid when reading labels? Mostly pertaining to chemical free.
Bree said,
February 18, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Thanks again for sharing the valuable information in your books. God Bless!
Susan Gregory said,
February 18, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Hi Bree,
The list of chemicals used in food production is vast! I try to use products with only real foods. If I don’t know what the “additive” is, then I pass on it. I make most of my meals from scratch and purchase most ingredients in the natural foods sections, at health food stores, or in the grocery store but that are 100% natural.
I know this is a vague answer, but the food industry is very different these days. To see what I mean, read the labels on a packet of tortillas you will see that the list of additives is HUGE!
Blessings to you!
zalika said,
February 20, 2008 at 7:43 am
I wanted to know about the Boost protien drink, may I drink during the fast. What protien drinks can I drink if not boost?
thank you
Bree said,
February 20, 2008 at 6:25 pm
Susan,
I picked up a box of Organic Whole Grain cereal. Everything in the ingredients seem ok except that it list organic evaporated cane juice and the last item on the list is organic honey. I assume this cereal is not ok condering the two? Please advise..
By the way, I can’t get enough of this site. I am on it everyday. I can’t tell you how happy I am to have all of this information in front of me. As mentioned previously, my friend and I will begin the Daniel Fast next week. Please keep my friend (Carrie) and I in your prayers as move on to have a closer relationship with our Father. There is no greater love than God’s love. We’re all blessed and highly favored.
STACY said,
February 21, 2008 at 4:10 pm
I have done a cup of kosher salt in the bath water to help with
detox and headaches I hope this helps. Thanks for the site it has blessed me
Michelle said,
February 26, 2008 at 10:08 am
I have Celiac disease and was wanting to make tortillas. I was wondering if the gluten-free flours amaranth, arrowroot, tapioca & sorghum were ok to use. I might use one or more of these in combination with brown rice and corn flour. Thank you for you help!
Susan Gregory said,
February 26, 2008 at 11:25 am
Hi Michelle,
I am not real familiar with Celiac disease but I do know that you cannot tolerate gluten, right? Your plan as mentioned in our post is totally within the Daniel Fast Guidelines.
You might find the Daniel Fast to be very good for your system as it gives a major break to your liver and gall bladder. I hope you will be on it long enough to experience some good health results. I have heard that people have been cured form Celiac disease by cleansing of the liver and gall bladder. Again, I am no expert . . . just a lover of learning!
Blessings to you on your fast.
Rebekah said,
February 28, 2008 at 4:20 am
I have a lot of spiritual issues. Some of them include doubting my salvation and major anger/violence issues. Can I use this fast as a means to get to the bottom of these problems and resolve them? Perhaps, not only cleansing my body, but my soul and spirit? If so, how does not eating certain things help my soul and spirit?
Susan Gregory said,
February 28, 2008 at 12:14 pm
Hi Rebekah,
Prayer and fasting is an excellent discipline to concentrate on life issues that you want to bring to health. Increased time in God’s Word and in prayer will bring health to your life.
Keep in mind that you are a spirit, you have a soul and you live in a body. Most of the time, unless we are spiritually and “walking in the spirit,” our soul has more control over our lives. The soul is where our emotions reside.
Fasting is taking our eating decisions away from our soul and placing them in the control of our spirit. This exercise helps us learn to put our spirit in control of our soul (also called our flesh) and live according to Christ’s teachings.
I send a free 21-Day Daniel Fast Daily Devotional to all the people who support this effort through the purchase of the Daniel Fast Cookbook or the Daniel Fast for the Body Soul and Spirit. There is an exercise about this in the devotional that makes it all more clear.
I hope this helps! Blessings to you on your fast.
tanya p said,
March 1, 2008 at 8:22 pm
Hello!
Just reading and seeing that God has told others to do the Daniel Fast gives me the chills! Our pastor has also called a fast. This is SO exciting!!! It truely makes me wonder just what God has in store for us during this time, ya know…. I am in AR and frying up some pork chops and taters are wonderful but GOD is more wonderful that anything this world has to offer. We begin tomorrow, March 2nd.
Susan, thank you so much for listening to God and being used in such a way that is reaching so many of us! GOD IS SO GOOD!!!!
Brian Hammond said,
March 4, 2008 at 6:55 pm
I am trying to lose 40lbs. However, our Pastor has also placed amandate on the house to chose a fast and follow it for 21 days. Therefore, out of convenience and holy cleansing I want to follow fast and pray as well as execrsize untill I feel spiriually better and lost 40lbs. Now I do not expect to lose the 40ilbs this soon no! My body diet started on March 1, 2008 and I plan it to continue until June 31, 2008. However, following the Daniel fast will help me increase my focus as I pray and it will allow me to flow with what the church has been asked to do. Though this is the first time I heard my pastor make the fast a matter of personal choice, I still feel the need for cleansing of my body. My present weight is 276 Ibs. mostly in my abdomen area.
Brian Hammond said,
March 4, 2008 at 7:01 pm
I am trying to lose 40lbs. However, our Pastor has also placed a mandate on the house to chose a fast and follow it for 21 days. Therefore, out of convenience and holy cleansing I want to follow this fast and pray as well as execrsize untill I feel spiritually better and lost 40lbs. Now I do not expect to lose the 40lbs this soonNO! My body diet started on March 1, 2008 and I plan it to continue until June 31, 2008. However, following the Daniel fast will help me increase my focus as I pray and it will allow me to flow with what the church has been asked to do. Though this is the first time I heard my pastor make the fast a matter of personal choice, I still feel the need for cleansing of my body and soul. My present weight is 276 Ibs. mostly in my abdomen area. However, I will fight the good fight and save my life through this fast!
In His service! Brian
Susan Gregory said,
March 4, 2008 at 7:13 pm
Hi Brian,
The Daniel Fast is an excellent “whole body experience” as it addresses the body, soul and spirit. I will caution you to not eat too many nuts and peanut butter as they are high in calories. However, you do want to make sure you are getting some fat in your diet for health purposes.
Focus on salads and whole grains and you will find the weight dropping off! Be sure to drink lots of water and add exercise.
Blessings to you on your fast!
miriam montes said,
March 6, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Hello,
I did the 21 day fast on jan, and I also did a 3 day total fast for healing for my friend and my daughter. I am now planning a other 21 day fast I need direction but my question is, I fine it that potatos really helped me last time I fasted. and I know too much potatos is not good but I really love them and they really kept me what could I do or what should I eat besides potato,I really need some thing to keep me what should I replace potato with?
Susan Gregory said,
March 6, 2008 at 7:08 pm
Hi Miriam,
My favorite “standby” is short grain brown rice. I make sure it’s always on hand. I make 3 cups of brown rice (cooked in 6 cups salted water) and then just keep it in the fridge in an airtight container. It’s a great base for lots of dishes.
Also, I love keeping Vegetarian Chili around. It freezes well and is very filling.
Finally, try different kinds of root vegetables along with potatoes. Carrots, yams, sweet potatoes, turnips, etc make a great combination.
Bless you on your fast!
Sara said,
March 8, 2008 at 9:45 am
Hello! Can you help me decide what nuts are ok? I seem to find nuts with added oil. Which oils are ok? Thanks!
Susan Gregory said,
March 8, 2008 at 9:49 am
Good morning Sara,
I prefer to eat raw nuts like almonds and peanuts. However, just about all nuts are acceptable on the Daniel Fast as long as they are sugar-free and chemical-free.
The same goes with oils. While olive oil is preferred for it’s health benefits, all good quality oils are acceptable.
I hope this helps! Bless you!
tanya p said,
March 9, 2008 at 9:45 am
Hello!!
I was wondering what Kettle Cooked meant. I’ve been searching on line and some things with kettel cooking appears to be fried and others possibly steamed….. Have you ever come across this before? I found some chips that are kettle cooked but wasn’t going to eat any until I found some answers and I can’t find any….. If you have any suggestions, please let me know.
Thank you!
Tanya
Susan Gregory said,
March 9, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Hi Tanya,
“Kettle cooked” is a new term for fried foods cooked in smaller batches. So my guess is that the foods you are considering are still deep fried, just in smaller kettles rather than big vats.
I think the only Daniel Fast friendly chip would be baked chips or those that you make yourself from whole wheat flour, salt, olive oil and water.
I hope this helps. Blessings to you on your fast.
Linda said,
March 10, 2008 at 8:21 am
Hi Susan, Praise the Lord for you site. I found it the day I started on my fast along with our church. I wanted to research more, and found your site what a blessing. This is my 15th day and I have made many of your recipies that have helped my family enjoy some new flavors. I am believing God to bring strongholds down in my children’s lives. My question is about xylitol, it’s suppose to be a natural sweeter even better than stevia, have you heard about it?
Susan Gregory said,
March 10, 2008 at 9:12 am
Hi Linda,
I am not familiar with this product . . . but from the research I’ve read it’s a sweetener discovered by the Finns and now normally comes from corn. It has fewer calories and while it is used as a sweetener it doesn’t spike one’s blood sugar level like cane sugar does.
So now we come to the question if it’s okay for the Daniel Fast . . . I think this is one of those gray areas. Technically, xylitol is considered a sweetener and a form of sugar (while not from sugar cane). Lots of fruits and vegetables contain sugar, yet those are okay on the Daniel Fast. On the other hand, maple syrup is a type of sugar syrup from trees and it is not allowed. By the way, xylitol was originally tapped from birch trees.
I guess this is one of those personal calls. When I am fasting, I don’t even use Stevia, which is an herb based sweetener. However I do use applesauce and raisins to sweeten hot cereal.
In these gray areas, I encourage people to pray and seek the Lord’s direction.
Apart from the fast, xylitol sure seems like a great product to use instead of cane derived sugar when we need a sweet taste!
I hope this helps . . . God bless you on your fast.
Dana Taylor said,
March 10, 2008 at 1:54 pm
Thank you for this site!!! My church is going to be starting a 21 day fast soon and some of us are wondering about McDonalds french fries, or french fries in general. Tahnk You
Susan Gregory said,
March 10, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Hi Dana,
Are you wondering if French fries are allowed
or how you will survive without them on the fast? 
Just kidding! Actually, McDonald’s fries are not allowed since all deep fried foods are off the fast (your liver will be so happy). But you can make baked and/or lightly fried fries that actually have much more flavor. There is a great recipe included with the Daniel Fast Cookbook.
God bless you on your fast . . . it’s a great experience!
Sara said,
March 12, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Thank you, Susan, for responding to all of the questions! I’m sure you tire of repeating yourself! What a blessing you must be to so many searching people. So, my next question is: Can we eat plain couscous? The only ingredient is “precooked medium grain semolina”. I have no idea what that is, but I’ve eaten couscous before and I think I liked it.
Thanks for all of your help!
God bless!
miriam montes said,
March 12, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Thank you so much for answering my question Susan your great.. as I read the questions others have asked and the way you answer them really blesses me thank you for your dedication and your love for the lord and his people.and I know that God will bless you for all that you do for others keep up the great work for the lord..
Susan Gregory said,
March 14, 2008 at 11:00 am
Sweet Miriam,
Thanks for the words of encouragement. My blessing is to serve God and His people! I try to answer each question and I am happy to communicate with others as I can.
Blessings to you always,
Susan
Jeanne Phelan said,
March 14, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Susan, I’ve been praying for the Lord to lead me to right type of fast and then I found your site. I realized the 21 day Daniel fast was the right one for me. I will be studying the book of Daniel. I have read all of your blog and bought both of your books. I’m so grateful to the Lord for your obedience and help in this area. May God richly bless your ministry.
Blessings,
Jeanne
Susan Gregory said,
March 14, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Hi Jeanne,
Thank you so much for your kind words. I hope the very best for you on your fast. I am fasting again starting the Monday after Resurrection Sunday and then breaking the fast at sunrise on Pentecost Sunday.
I have some very specific things I need from the Lord and I want to press in to faith in this way. It will be the longest period of fasting for me . . . but I am very excited about it.
Blessings to you and please keep in touch!
Anthony said,
March 16, 2008 at 3:49 pm
Is sexual relations with my wife prohibited
Susan Gregory said,
March 16, 2008 at 4:25 pm
Hi Anthony,
No, marital relations do not have to stop during the Daniel Fast unless you are your wife agree to that practice. You might consider it, however as a way to pour a very powerful element of love into your marriage. Some chose to stop sexual relations and instead serve each other with act of kindness and care. Couples who do this find their marriage improved in ways they could not otherwise experience.
Scripture says that both the husband and wife must agree if sexual relations are to be withheld for a period of time.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Minita said,
March 26, 2008 at 3:43 pm
Is wild rice acceptable on the Daniel Fast?
Susan Gregory said,
March 27, 2008 at 8:27 am
Yes, Minita, wild rice is perfect for the Daniel Fast. I usually cook it in my rice cooker and it comes out perfect!
Blessings to you!
Cindy said,
March 27, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Hi! My cousin e-mailed you earlier about joining the Fast for a financial
breakthrough….we’re in Ohio. She told me to send you my e-mail address.
It is (deleted for writer’s protection).
THANK YOU!
Bree said,
March 30, 2008 at 7:35 pm
Susan,
I bought a bag of frozen fruit (Berrie). The list seemed fine until I got to ascorbic acid. Is that an additive?
Carolyn said,
April 3, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Can I eat Quaker oatmeal banana bread flavor, even if it has artificial and natural flavor?
Susan Gregory said,
April 3, 2008 at 4:36 pm
Hi Carolyn,
No, Quaker flavored oatmeal mixes are not allowed, however you could use the plain Quaker Oats along with a fresh banana and soy or rice milk.
With all that’s coming out about the harmful effects of artificial foods and additives, I rarely eat anything with them.
Bless you on your fast!
Bree said,
April 5, 2008 at 10:23 am
Susan,
I bought a bag of fruit (berries). The list seemed fine until I saw ascorbic acid (vitamin c) on the list. Is this considered an additive and is it acceptable?
Susan Gregory said,
April 7, 2008 at 6:46 am
Hi Bree,
Ascorbic acid is a common additive as a preservative and it helps maintain color in foods. It’s vitamin C and just as lemon juice is often used to maintain color (i.e. avocados, apples, etc.).
The ascorbic acid in the bag of fruit you purchased is likely processed – however it may have been derived from fruit. I usually look for “naturally produced ascorbic acid” when I am on the Daniel Fast.
I hope this helps!
Bless you!
Patricia said,
April 8, 2008 at 9:27 am
Hi Susan,
Thanks for such a great site. I have learned so much from the blogg. Im on day 16 and is experiencing sickness… A major cough and cold. I was told that it may be due to lack of all other major food groups. Can I have powered protien mix to boost my immune system? If not what do you suggest for protien?
Susan Gregory said,
April 8, 2008 at 10:14 am
Hi Patricia,
It’s unlikely that the fast has caused the cough and cold. However, you do want to keep your immune system strong. First, I suggest that you increase your vitamin C by taking 1000 mg in the morning and another 1000 mg at dinner time. Also, eat foods rich in vitamin C.
I consider some of the best sources of protein are tofu, beans and rice, nuts and dark green vegetables.
Powdered proteins are okay, but in my opinion the natural sources are much better . . .
By the way, as I write this I can look out my window and see six MEGA Black Angus bulls in the pasture adjacent to my property. They eat nothing but grass and are HUGE and very powerful! They get lots of protein from the green grass and hay they eat all year long. Food for thought
Be blessed!
KATIE said,
April 8, 2008 at 3:16 pm
HI SUSAN
I’M WONDERING IF IT’S A CERTAIN AMOUNT THAT YOU HAVE TO EAT EVERYDAY OF ANY OF THE FOOD? OR DO YOU JUST EAT UNTIL YOU ARE FULL?.BECAUSE I CAN EAT CASHEWS ALL DAY LONG AND BEFORE WITH MY OTHER DIET I GAINED WEIGHT. AS WELL AS EATING A LOT OF VEGETABLES TOO I ONLY GAINED. SO IS IT A CERTAIN AMOUNT THAT YOU CAN EAT ON THIS DIET OR CAN YOU EAT ANY AMOUNT OF ANYTHING AND STILL LOSE WEIGHT? AND IS IT OKAY TO TAKE DIET PILLS WITH THIS DIET. ONE IN PARTICULAR “SLIMQUICK”… HELP!!!! I WANNA DO WHATS RIGHT AND LOSE THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF WEIGHT IN THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF TIME. AND CAN U EXERCISE?,IF SO HOW MUCH?
Debbie said,
April 9, 2008 at 6:56 am
Hi Susan,
I finished my 21 day Daniel fast last Saturday, and I’ve decided to continue. I never, ever thought that would be the outcome of my fast but I’ve so enjoyed the presence of the Lord that I just don’t want to change anything.
Just a suggestion, but if it’s possible it would make for easier reading if you could invert the blog responses and have the most recent at the top?
You’re doing a wonderful job sharing info with all of us and I pray that God richly blesses you!
Debbie
Susan Gregory said,
April 9, 2008 at 6:58 am
Good morning Katie,
First of all, bless you on your fast . . . and our desire to follow this discipline. By doing so, you are putting your spirit-man in charge of our flesh (soul) and consecrating yourself unto the Lord. That is a lovely and empowering thing to do.
You will need to forgo the diet pills or diet supplements. Instead I strongly encourage you to drink at least 64 oz. of filtered water every day. It will clean out your system and suppress your appetite.
As far as the amount of food that you eat . . . decide BEFORE your eat a meal the size of a healthy portion — not an overeating portion — but a healthy amount. The same goes for snacks. Decide BEFORE you eat the amount for a healthy snack. Then stick to it! Even if you get up from the table and are still hungry, don’t eat any more.
The Daniel Fast is a very healthy way of eating and you should be able to prepare nutritious meals to meet all your body’s needs. But you want the spirit to be in control of your body rather than your flesh. Keep in mind that you are a spirit (born again), you have a soul (also called the flesh in scripture) and you live in a body (your “earth suit”). Fasting is a time to put your spirit over your flesh and will serve as a great training for many other areas of your life.
“Eating cashews all day long” is not a fast, even though cashews are on the “okay list.” Make a quality decision now to eat three meals a day and perhaps two small snacks . . . and no more! Stick with it. Fast unto the Lord and ask the Holy Spirit to help you. He is our Helper.
I believe the Lord wants to prosper you in the fruit of the Spirit that He gave you when you were born again . . . the fruit of “self-control.” Praise Him for His love toward you and accept this time of training and discipline.
Bless you, dear sister. The Lord is calling you!
Emily Thubbron said,
April 13, 2008 at 5:24 pm
Dear Susan,
Your website was recommended to me by a friend of mine who, together with our church, partook of a Daniel Fast the latter part of February into March. I have enjoyed your website. The information is very thorough and well researched. I have enjoyed reading the blogs very much. I would like to testify to the goodness of Lord, Jesus Christ. When I began the fast in February, I went in with the intentions of breaking some spiritual strongholds in my life and also preparing for evangalistic services that were to begin the last day of our fast. The results of the fast were amazing. Not only did it bring me deeper into relationship with God, but as a diabetic, my blood sugar numbers were down drastically. I had previously been running 250 and above. Now, thank God, I am running between 90 and 165. I have lost weight and God has given me the desire to get healthy, in shape, and has given me a goal to work toward. I am 35, and desperately want another child. God has assured me that through my dedication and faithfullness, this child will come. I have chosen to stay on the Daniel Fast as a lifestyle, although I do add certain things back into my diet. When I feel the Lord pressing my heart to fast again, I just cut back on the delicacies. Thank you for your faithfullness to our Lord and Savior and for forming this website and blog. God bless you and yours.
Cheryl B said,
April 15, 2008 at 6:27 pm
God Bless you Abundantly Susan,
I was wondering if you can have Tortilla chips while on the Daniel Fast. They are organic made from yellow organic corn.
Cheryl B said,
April 15, 2008 at 6:29 pm
I don’t have a printer at home is there another way to obtain the cookbook?
Susan Gregory said,
April 17, 2008 at 6:59 am
Hi Cheryl,
If you would like me to print and mail you a cookbook, I am happy to do so. Just add an additional $5 to your order to cover the printing, shipping and handling. I will send you a private email with detailed instructions.
Regarding the tortilla chips: the problem is that most of those on the market are deep fried, which is against the Daniel Fast Guidelines, and they have chemicals. There is a recipe on this site to make your own, which many folks do. They are just whole wheat flour, olive oil, and water. Very easy and still tasty.
Be blessed!
Kathleen said,
April 17, 2008 at 8:40 am
Suggestion regarding popcorn: use a hot air popper or a microwave popper — both are very inexpensive products to buy and do not require oil to use. Makes a very healthy snack, better than popping in oil.
Susan Gregory said,
April 17, 2008 at 8:46 am
Great idea Kathleen.
To be specific, a microwave popper instead of microwave popcorn is the way to go. The packaged popcorn is packed with harmful chemicals and additives.
Also, a little oil to pop popcorn on the range is not all bad. Our bodies function best if we don’t eat “naked carbohydrates.” So a little oil helps our bodies digest the food better and gives a message to our pacreas about insulin secretions.
Be blessed and thanks for sharing your tip.
Bree said,
April 18, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Susan,
I’ve been blessed by your recipes and by God’s direction when preparing my meals. I take my breakfast and lunch to work daily now. I am being blessed in so many ways. My fast will end on the 28th but I am truly blessed to have learned so much. God has taken me back to the basics (necessities) instead of me indulging on things of the world. God is so awesome. He knows everything about us and what we need. Susan, thanks again for your inspiration and the time you put into this ministry. You are truly an Angel. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!
Ember said,
April 22, 2008 at 10:01 am
Hi, I am pretty new at reading the labels on things so I’ve been trying to look up things that I don’t know what they are. Some I find are just natural ingredients with weird names. But I did have a question about one. A lot of the “sugar free” dressings and such forth have something called xanthan gum and I found on the internet that it is a polysaccharide. Isn’t that sugar? My other question is this, I was at work today and forgot my lunch so I ordered out with everyone else. I ordered a veggie wrap with just oil and vinegar but I made sure it was a whole wheat tortilla with no sugar and no white flour. The lady that placed the order said she double checked and that none of those things are in it but it did have lard in it. So, I went to the grocery store to find a wrap that I could use instead. The only thing I found without sugar or lard was flatout wraps. I looked at the ingredients and I don’t recognise some of them but I know that there was no white flour, no sugar, and no lard. Do you know anything about flatout wraps? Is there anything in them that would be considered off the fast? I did see that there was yeast in it and I couldn’t remember if that was allowed? Maybe I’m being too technical but I’m really trying hard to do my best. Thank you so much for all of the information that you give. Ember
Susan Gregory said,
April 22, 2008 at 11:29 am
Hi Ember,
You will find that many foods that you never expected to have sugar, chemicals or other additives in them, in fact do! That is why I make so many of my own dressings, sauces, condiments and other food items from scratch. I do that during the fast, but also when I am not fasting. Many processed food products include chemicals and calories that we just don’t need!
I make my own salad dressings for that very reason. Xanthium Gum is used to thicken and stabilize salad dressings. But it is a kind of sugar, even though in small amounts. Prepared tortillas have lots of chemicals in them for preservatives. Again, I usually make my own.
When I am in a bind and need to grab something for lunch, I usually choose either a salad with oil and vinegar or rice cakes with peanut butter along with a piece of fruit.
The only popcorn I use is what I pop myself from scratch with a little peanut oil. Some folks use air poppers or poppers that can be used the in microwave. DON’T use the packaged microwave popcorn or Kettle corn as they have lots of chemicals.
Remember that one of the things we learn when we’re fasting is discipline and getting our spirits to take authority over our flesh. So while it may seem like you are being “too technical” you are actually experiencing some very useful disciplines that are transferable to your life in the spirit.
Be blessed, dear one. Know that you are in my prayers.
Bree said,
April 23, 2008 at 7:18 am
Hello Susan,
Quick question, Are we still allowed to take multivitamins while fasting? I just noticed that my container says that it may contain fish or milk.
Lydia said,
April 27, 2008 at 4:12 am
I love you website. Why can’t one use honey, it is natural? I’ve also read on another website about raw sugar, is this accepted during the fast?
Susan Gregory said,
April 30, 2008 at 9:43 am
Hi Lydia,
Thanks so much for your kind words! This blog is a blessing to me and I try to help and bless every visitor.
Honey and other sweeteners are not allowed on the fast because they are considered “delicate” foods, which Daniel did not eat during his fast as recorded in Daniel 10.
I try to keep in mind that the fast is a time to “restrict food for a spiritual purpose.” So going without any sweeteners has us confronting that desire from our souls . . . and then we take control of it through this spiritual discipline.
I hope this helps and I hope the very best for you on your fast!
Ada said,
May 1, 2008 at 7:08 pm
I come by this by wanting to do the fast I have blood pressure problems and seems salt does not help this so our prayer group suggest Danail fast so 4 of us starting it this week so I but this in the conputer to see what I could have on this fast and I find I can do this for a lot of this I all ready eat and I am able to do all thing with the help of the Lord’ thank you for this site I will look in on it often and tell the girls about it also. God Bless you always this great. and I know the Lord is going to great thing in my life health wise aspiritual as will. Ada
Carolyn said,
May 3, 2008 at 12:23 pm
Hi Susan,
I started my fast on April 29 and I found your website today(May 3) and in doing so found that I have had some things that were not included in the diet. This is my first time fasting for spiritual reasons and I am still learning, but I have been chewing sugarless gum for fresh breath and I have been eating salads with dressing and cheese(sparingly). I feel bad that I didn’t research better before I started but I can always add some extra days from this point. Learn better do better in the Lord. I am grateful to have found your website. It is good to see something so wonderful and spiritual and God fearing on the web. I pray for anyone who has enough faith and courage to reach out to God. He will reward you. I am so thankful to God for my life. I am looking for a new relationship with him and I am starting with the Daniel fast. I praise God and I pray that he will lift each of you up and bless each of you richly. Thank you Susan for your website and continue in God’s work.
With God’s love,
Carolyn
Carolyn said,
May 4, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Hello Susan,
I hope you are having a blessed day in the Lord. I have a question about the chips. I have been reading the blogs and you answered the question about the popcorn. I went to a local healthfood store and found some Lay’s Natural Potato chips. I did as you instructed and read the label. The only ingredients are potatoes, sunflower oil, and sea salt. I bought them but somehow it still seems like a pleasure food to me. I know Daniel gave up foods like that. I was wondering is it ok?
Thank you, Carolyn
Susan Gregory said,
May 5, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Hi Carolyn,
There are a couple issues here. One is how you feel about eating the food. That can be a message from the Holy Spirit specifically for you. Keep in mind that there is no spiritual power in foods that you eat or do not eat (some of us would argue that chocolate has amazing spiritual qualities
). The whole issue is putting your flesh (also called the soul) under the authority of your spirit. So if there are foods that the Holy Spirit calls you to give up, this may be totally personal to you.
The other issue is about food preparation. French fries have only potatoes, salt and whatever oil used for the deep fry. But they are not allowed because they are deep fried. I expect that the potato chips are also deep fried.
Finally, the issue with “pleasure foods” not being allowed on the Daniel Fast. I think this is an area to keep in mind. One can stretch the rules for the Daniel Fast in many ways. But to gain the benefits from the fast, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a FAST! We fast by restricting foods for spiritual purposes. Our eating should be simple, healthy and restrictive.
I hope this helps! Be blessed on the fast.
Carolyn said,
May 6, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Hello Susan,
Just wanted to thank you for your response. It was very helpful. I will let you know how I did. I can already feel God working in me. It is a wonderful feeling the closeness that I feel with God. Thanks again for the website!
God bless you, Carolyn
Michelle said,
May 11, 2008 at 10:45 am
Hi Susan!
What sweet words and fire about ushering in the kingdom with prayer and signs and wonders! (that was a bit ago) anywho, you said soy milk was ok, but I got chocolate flavored soy milk… it doesn’t have sugar in it, but the whole chocolate thing.. also it has additives such as potassium citrate and calcium carbonate.. but the rest is organic.. I’m guessing probably not?
Thank-you!
Susan Gregory said,
May 14, 2008 at 11:07 am
Hi Michelle,
Sorry, have to nix the chocolate during the Daniel Fast. It would be considered “precious food” and therefore part of the restriction for spiritual purposes.
Be blessed!
Melody said,
May 16, 2008 at 11:02 am
Hi Susan,
I see several Daniel Fast recipies that include soy sauce. Kikkoman’s naturally brewed seems the best choice, but I was wondering about “sodium benzonate”, it says it has less than 1/10 of 1% as a preservative. I did not find any brand without this ingredient. Is it a thumbs up or down?
Thanks,
Melody
Susan Gregory said,
May 16, 2008 at 11:14 am
Hi Melody,
I was able to find a natural soy sauce that has no sugar and not chemicals. It’s a store brand (I live in Washington State) and so that’s what I used. You also might want to check at a natural food store or in the natural food section of your grocery store. You can also substitute tamari sauce.
I hope this helps! Be blessed!
Gerral of Desoto Tx. said,
May 22, 2008 at 7:18 am
I have been doing the Daniel Fast for 39 days. I started out doing 21 days and was convicted by the Holy Spirit on day 3 to do 40 days. My family has been very supportive especially my husband. We agreed to fast from sex as well and we are counting down and I know that our marriage is going to be stronger than it was before and it was great. We have been married for 25 years and are high school sweethearts. I have also started reading a book called “Good Morning Holy Spirit” and I am excited about what is to come. I wish I had had the Daniel Fast Cookbook. I will order it for my lifestyle change. I have a question about pork, catfish and shrimp. Of course I love those foods, but I am of the understanding that the Bible says NO to these and then in another place in the Bible it says “How can you say anything is unclean that I made?” I am confused. If I’m not suppose to eat it then I will not eat it, but if I can have it then I want it. I have highblood pressure, thyroid condition and diagnosed as a diabetic. I have been taking my medication except for the diabetic meds, because they did not give it to me when I picked up my meds and i did not realize it, but my blood pressure has been normal 121/78 and my blood sugar has been 93-135. I don’t know of a way to monitor my thyroid other than my bones feeling really tired, (like a flu feeling of bones aching). Do you know of a way to monitor it other than going to the doctor? Maybe a self test. I have really enjoyed all the information being passed along and all the support that you give. Thank you for keeping God’s work moving forward. You are truly a Blessing.
Gerral of Desoto Tx. said,
May 22, 2008 at 7:23 am
Hi Susan
The catfish, pork and shrimp that I am inquiring about are for after the fast is over.
Thanks
Gerral
Susan Gregory said,
May 22, 2008 at 7:40 am
Good morning Gerral,
The reason the Jewish Dietary laws forbid catfish, pork and shrimp is because they are all considered “scavengers.” The foods they eat and the way their bodies digest makes their flesh not always safe for consumption.
There is a lot of debate as to whether these foods are okay for Christians to eat because the New Testament teaches that we are no longer under the law. However, you will find that many health professionals agree that these foods are not always safe for human consumption.
I suggest you pray about this and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Conduct some research on the foods (Google can offer some great leads) and make the decision for yourself. Eating these foods is not sinful. The decision is a matter of health.
Congratulations on your successful fast. Your testimony sounds like you benefitted from the experience just as prayer and fasting is meant to result. I am sorry that I don’t know about testing for your thyroid. You might just give your doctor’s office a call and see if they can point you to something.
Be blessed and thanks for taking the time to write!
sheddrika said,
May 23, 2008 at 1:14 pm
I need a recipe for baked apples
Debbie in Houston said,
May 24, 2008 at 5:42 am
I just lucked into this site while searching the web for guidlines for the Daniel Fast. I’ve read some very interesting comments and appreciate the wisdom shared. In Don Colbert’s book, Toxic Relief, he shares that liver preparation 2 wks before and after a fast is essential. So I use Milk Thistle & Dandelion Root liquids from Whole Foods. Now I continue to use on a regular basis along with my vitamins. I’m glad to see it posted that vitamins are okay on the Daniel Fast. Out of curiousity, is Ezekiel 4:9 bread exceptable as it’s made without white flour? It’s wonderful toasted with honey. A member at church said it was on the Daniel Fast. I haven’t seen your books yet as this is the first time I’ve seen this site. For a yummy snack we make sweet potatoe chips; baked in the oven with olive oil & sea salt.
Again, I’ve really enjoyed cruising thru this blog and will pop back in again. I had just finished my morning prayer time and it was during this time that this fast was put into my heart… there are no coincidences with God so I know HE directed me so I would have the proper guidence. Don’t want to dishonor the Lord by doing something halfway.
Blessings for a Christ filled day.
Debbie
maria payan said,
May 29, 2008 at 8:45 am
Hi Susan
This is my first time going the 21 day daniel fast please help me
with recipes looking forward to it I want gods blessings.
Thanks Maria.
Bree said,
May 29, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Susan,
TO GOD BE THE GLORY…
My fast ended on 4/27 and I’ve truly been blessed by it. I posted this question back in April. I would like to know are we still allowed to take multivitamins while fasting because I noticed the container says that it may contain fish or milk. Is this acceptable? I would like to know for future reference.
menodiva101 said,
May 29, 2008 at 5:19 pm
This is great! I had heard your show with Bishop Miller and it was awesome info. Thank you so much and God bless!
Evangelist Cookie
http://www.menodiva101.wordpress.com
Susan Gregory said,
June 1, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Hi Maria,
There are lots of recipes on this blog. However, if you want a collection of recipes for the complete Daniel Fast, plus meal plans and other supportive information, I encourage you to purchase the Daniel Fast Cookbook. It’s packed with all kinds of great recipes for meals and snacks!
I hope this helps!
Susan Gregory said,
June 1, 2008 at 1:56 pm
HI Bree,
Congratulations on completing your fast!
Multivitamins and medications are allowed on the Daniel Fast as the fast should always be good for your health! However, this may be a time to review your supplements and vitamins to make sure what you are adding to your body is the best it can be.
Be blessed, dear sister in Christ and thanks for all your support!
Maria P said,
June 1, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Hi Susan
I just bought the Daniel Fast Book
and Daniel Fast Cookbook how do I
Download? Thank You so much.
Susan Gregory said,
June 1, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Maria,
Hotmail and MSN have been very stubborn lately. I’ve tried to send you the files, but the emails keep getting passed back to me! Please check your spam catcher for emails from Susan Gregory. I am trying to get this resolved! I’ve contacted Microsoft so I hope to have it all in order soon. Also, please add the email address to your “safe list” and hopefully that will help.
Thanks so much!
Carolyn said,
June 2, 2008 at 9:34 am
I just received my cookbook and downloaded it. I am looking forward to seeing what it involves and starting on my fast. I first heard about it through a friend who was just dieting, but the more I research it the more it is about the spiritual side. I am looking forward to seeing what changes God would like to make in me. I am a faithful church member and serve as a secretary at my church. Everyone could use a closer walk though.
I am hoping to learn more about God and His mighty power through this. It is funny, I am reading through the Bible and have just started yesterday on the book of Daniel. God’s timing is alway right in our lives!!!!
Carolyn
Susan Gregory said,
June 2, 2008 at 11:16 am
Bless you, Carolyn.
God is so good. I hope you have the time to read more on this blog as it has a lot of information about the fast and also lots of inspiration form others who have visited here and left their messages.
God bless you and thanks for taking the time to write.
Carolyn M said,
June 3, 2008 at 5:17 am
I went to town yesterday to start purchasing some things on the food list. I was looking for oat bran and could not find any thing but Kellogs Bran Cereal. It had 6 g of sugar so I didn’t buy it. Where is the best place to get oat bran? the grocery store or health food stores? Am I looking for oat bran cereal or is there such a thing as just plain oat bran?
Carolyn M said,
June 4, 2008 at 7:32 am
Are bullion cubes acceptable?
Susan Gregory said,
June 4, 2008 at 8:27 am
Hi Carolyn,
When I fast, I use whole grain cereals like Oatmeal and Wheat Bran. I haven’t found boxed prepared cereals that meet the Daniel Fast criteria. Remember to read the INGREDIENTS and not the nutritional value. Many foods will have natural sugar and therefore the nutritional value part of the label will note it. However, sugar will not show up on the ingredients.
My breakfasts consist of fresh fruit, hot cereal (oatmeal, ZOOM which is wheat bran, muesli) and sometimes brown rice with fresh fruit added to it. Whole grains are so good for us, plus they “stick to the ribs” so we stay satisfied for many hours.
Regarding using bullion: again, it’s important to READ THE LABEL. I found a vegetarian bullion that is really good. It’s made by Vogue Cuisine and it’s called “Instant VegeBase.” The flavors are great and it really enhances the recipes.
I hope this helps. Be blessed on your fast.
Theo said,
June 17, 2008 at 8:40 am
Hi Susan,
I am new to fasting and would love to try the Daniel fast for spritual growth and healing. I need to know how exactly this fast works i.e if i am allowed to eat during the day as i fast from meat or animal products or eat in the morning (breakfast) then after breaking the fast. I hope my questions are clear, i just need a rough example of how one’s day is spent on a Daniel fast.
Thank you
Susan Gregory said,
June 17, 2008 at 10:29 am
Hi Theo,
I encourage you to spend time on this site or purchase the Daniel Fast books so you can learn more about the Daniel Fast.
Look at the Daniel Fast Food List and The Daniel Fast Guidelines. These posts will help familiarize you with the fast and what you can eat. There are no rules about when or how much to eat. Rather, the Daniel Fast is a partial fast and restricts certain types of foods.
Here is what my typical fast day would be:
Breakfast: Fruit and/or hot whole grain cereal with raisins and soy milk.
Lunch: Green salad, fruit, nuts.
Dinner: Rice with Beans.
Snacks: nuts, fruit, vegetable slices
Beverages: I drink only filtered water.
I hope this helps.
Bree said,
June 17, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Erewhon has two organic boxed cereals that are great. Raisin Bran (Organic Wheat Kernels, Raisins, Sea Salt, Barley Malt, Wheat Bran) and Crispy Brown Rice (Organic Brown Rice and Barley Malt). You can add a banana to the Raisin Bran. I like to add Sliced Almonds and Cranberries to the Crispy Brown Rice. May God Bless you as you seek His will in all areas of your life.
By the way, I found both cereals in Shoprite and you can find them in health food stores. If you’re close to a Westerly Health Food Store, you can get them for $2.99
marion cherry said,
June 24, 2008 at 11:30 am
i notice while reading in gredients lot old wheat cereals has a least 1g or 6 g of suger , also soymilk is it ok.
Susan Gregory said,
June 24, 2008 at 1:12 pm
Hi Marion,
If the sugar is in the ingredients, then you will need to pass on the cereal. However, if it’s listed in the nutritional section, then it’s okay. One if added to the product whereas nutritional elements are included in the food itself. For example, grapes have very high sugar content.
Also, soy milk is great for cooking and with cereal and the like. However, it is not allowed as a beverage. I know this may sound like splitting hairs, but the Daniel Fast has water as the only beverage.
I hope this helps!
Tammy Nichols said,
July 7, 2008 at 9:07 am
My baby is 6 weeks old and I am breast feeding is the Daniel fast ok?
Susan Gregory said,
July 7, 2008 at 10:19 am
Hi Tammy,
Congratulations on your new baby! What a precious gift from God.
Yes, the Daniel Fast is actually very healthy however I suggest that you modify it only slightly by adding fish and chicken back into your daily diet. Meanwhile, eat lots of green leafy vegetables, colorful fruits, and whole grains.
You should also check with your health provider . . . but I expect that s/he will say that it’s a great way to eat!
Be blessed.
Lee said,
July 14, 2008 at 11:33 pm
I prayed for a way to achieve a successful and healthy weight loss. I believe my prayers were answered when I struck up a conversation with a stranger that led me to the Daniel Fast. I did the fast for 4 days and lost 4 pounds. I was not hungry and was satisfied and not craving sweets. Then my birthday came and I stopped fasting. I am not proud or pleased with myself for this departure. I am starting the fast again tomorrow and I am excited and looking forward to it. I thank you for the information and encouragement you provide and I thank God for leading me to this site. Thank you!
Tonya said,
July 16, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Is rice milk okay?
Susan Gregory said,
July 16, 2008 at 7:16 pm
Hi Tonya,
Yes, it’s okay to use rice milk in cooking and on cereal. The gray area is as a beverage. I am a “Daniel Fast purist” and drink only water. Some people also drink fruit/vegetable juice and rice and/or soy milk.
Blessings to you on your fast.
shotirf said,
July 18, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Suasan I simply bless the lord for you and your willingness to be used of Him to bless His people…Many blessings to you!
Gee said,
August 2, 2008 at 3:26 am
Hi Susan:
Thanks fo the wonderful website that I just come across this afternoon. And has been reading it. I am committed to start on the Daniel Fast for at least ten days. I have yet to start as I am not sure if I am on the right track. After reading your blog it gives me great confidence. Many thanks.
When i was 67 Kg i went on a no-carboh diet since i was considered obsese and largely for health reason. I managed to lose 9 kg after nine months without any tread off in sagging etc as I have been advised to take powdered soya supplements (not meal replacement) and powdered fibre.
and Eel Marrow Oil Tablets (for Omega 3 and 6).
I have not consumed the three for a month as due to restriction I did not bring them along when i was in Australia recently.
I would say being in the above weight lost program make me easier to practice a fast.
I managed to practice – since July 1 – beverage fast, partical fast and one meal fast.
I want to commit on a a Daniel Fast for loved onces who are currently not well. I hope to fast and pray for their well being. Work wise is rather stressful, i hope that while i fast I am able to keep healthy and upbeat too.
I know that Eel Oil tablets would be out in a Daniel fast but i can continue to consume the Soya supplements and Fibre powdered supplements. The soya supplements consist of soy protien isolate, soy powder and fructose. And Fibre powdered supplements is all about Fibre.
What do you tihink Susan? Thanks and with blessings.
Gee
Susan Gregory said,
August 2, 2008 at 6:54 am
Good morning Gee,
First of all, the Daniel Fast without supplements is a very healthy eating plan if it’s balanced with fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and plenty of water. I eat tofu during the fast, usually sauteed with onions and peppers.
The soy supplements you mentioned contain fructose as one of the ingredients which is sugar from fruit as opposed to cane. Therefore, it would be out during the Daniel Fast.
I encourage you to either purchase the Daniel Fast Cookbook (which is an eBook) so you have plenty of recipes or gather those from this blog. There are many right here. If you want to lose weight during the fast, be careful about how much fruit and nuts you consume. But a balanced Daniel Fast is good for the body, soul and spirit!
Angie said,
August 2, 2008 at 7:21 am
Susan,
On the list of things that we can eat, veggie burgers are listed. But when I went to the store they had Morning Star and Baco Burgers. Are either of these allowed or do I need to find something different from somewhere else. The ingredient list is long and alot of the words you can’t tell if they are natural or chemical.
Also, is there a proper way of cooking tofu.
Thank you.
Susan Gregory said,
August 2, 2008 at 7:58 am
Hi Angie,
I am not sure about those two brands, but it’s likely from the sounds of the ingredient list that you need to keep looking. You might want to check out what is available in health food stores or just not eat the veggie burgers at all.
There are many ways to prepare tofu and some are included in the Daniel Fast Cookbook. My favorite recipe is for breakfast, using firm tofu and sauteing it with onions, peppers and Italian herbs. The tofu picks up the flavors and the consistency is like eggs. Tofu is packed with protein so it’s a great way to start the day!
I hope this helps!
shima said,
August 2, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Hi Susan,
God is sooooooo Good. I just came from an awesome youth conference here in Orlando, Florida and the minsiter spoke about Daniel in the fire. The minister adv us to look for God to move in our lives with in the next ten days. So I wanted to take it to another level and start the Daniel Fast. I am not new to fasting,but to this particular fast I am. I want to purchase your cook book and journal but I do want to become a member of lack attack. Is that the only way to get the cookbook and journal? If not can you please tell me where I can purchase it from.
Thank you.
Susan Gregory said,
August 2, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Hi Shima,
Praise God for stirring in your heart!
You do not need to become a member of Lack Attack to purchase the books. The only reason you need to purchase them from that site is because this particular WordPress program does not allow purchases.
I hope this helps and be blessed as you continue to seek God and His power and grace.
michelle said,
August 5, 2008 at 11:38 am
In reading your blogs, looking over the books and reading the Word. It appears to me that the best and most biblically sound way to do the Daniel fast is to focus on eating simply fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Anything extra can fall on the borderline. Even a raw food diet at this time seems appropriate.
What do you think?
Susan Gregory said,
August 5, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Hi Michelle,
The only facts we can glean from Daniel about what is now called the Daniel Fast is from Daniel 1 and Daniel 10. In Daniel 1 he ate only vegetables (which likely included fruits) and drank only water. In Daniel 10 he ate no meat or precious foods and drank no wine.
This information, coupled with Jewish fasting and dietary practices, serves as the foundation for the Daniel Fast.
There are Daniel Fast “purists” who are more strict about the foods they consume, plus they drink only water (I tend to be in this group). There are also those who use the Daniel Fast guidelines and make decisions about the many gray areas. Neither group is more spiritual than the other, since there is no power in what foods are eaten or not eaten. The power of fasting is that one commits a period of time “unto the Lord” to seek a closer relationship with the Father or insights or answers for a particular need. Fasting puts the spirit in charge and the body and soul in a “controlled” position.
The main thing is to be serious about the fast, and when you make decisions about the foods you will or will not eat, to really search your heart about the motive. For example, a pregnant woman or an active athlete may choose to keep chicken and fish in their diet while fasting. The motive is that their body needs the added protein. While someone without that special physical need might not want to give up chicken because they just don’t want to have to experience the discipline of eating only fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
There’s a big difference in the motives.
I hope this helps . . . and be blessed on your fast.
Ann said,
August 13, 2008 at 12:57 pm
Hi Susan, I haven’t received any of the receipes. Could you please send me some southern receipes. Thanks
Corey said,
August 14, 2008 at 8:57 am
Are you allowed to eat sugar free jello or frozen yougurt?
Susan Gregory said,
August 14, 2008 at 9:34 am
Hi Corey,
No, sugar-free Jello has artificial flavoring, coloring and sweeteners. So it’s off the list for the Daniel Fast. Also, yogurt is a dairy product. During the Daniel Fast, all animal products are nixed. So no yogurt . . .
I hope this helps!
Susan Gregory said,
August 14, 2008 at 9:37 am
Hi Ann,
I am not sure what you are talking about when you say you have not received recipes. Did you purchase the Daniel Fast Cookbook? If so, you should have received five collections of recipes right after your purchase. It’s a gift I give buyers to show my appreciation for their support. Let me know if you did not receive them and I will send them immediately.
Blessings to you on your fast.
MJ said,
August 16, 2008 at 12:57 pm
We do protein fruit shakes or smoothies. I know whey protein would not be allowed but can you use the soy protein.
Susan Gregory said,
August 16, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Hi MJ,
As long as all the ingredients are on the “allowed list” then smoothies are fine. I don’t use soy protein, so I am not sure about that. However, I do use tofu. Just READ THE LABEL to make sure the ingredients are okya.
Be blessed!
Corey said,
August 16, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Are Sunchips allowed? They are a source of whole grain? The ORIGINAL that is.
Also, is Dole Pineapple juice allowed? It said 100% juice, but it has pinapple concentrate in it? Is that allowed?
Susan Gregory said,
August 16, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Hi Corey,
SunChips are okay if they are sugar-free and chemical-free and if they are not deep fried. Any brand of pineapple juice is okay as long as it’s 100% juice with no chemicals or preservatives.
Have a great fast!
Corey said,
August 18, 2008 at 5:10 am
Another quick question, 100% whole wheat bread and pasta is alright to eat on the Daniel fast/diet right? Because there was one Dainel fast site that said whole wheat does not count. Is this true?
Susan Gregory said,
August 18, 2008 at 6:47 am
Hi Corey,
All whole grains are allowed on the Daniel Fast. What is NOT ALLOWED is leavening. So that makes bread a no, no. However, if you have flat bread with no leavening, then you are fine. I hear the there is now an Ezekiel Flat Bread that has no leavening agents in it. This could be great for wraps and even to dry in the oven for chips.
You find Ezekiel Bread in health food stores or in the refrigerated area of the Natural Food section in larger grocery stores.
I hope this helps!
Carolyn M said,
August 20, 2008 at 8:28 am
1 teaspoon Five Spices
In the recipe: Savory Tofu Stew, what is the above ingredient? Is it the recipe Special Seasoning or is it something you buy in the store?
Susan Gregory said,
August 21, 2008 at 7:06 am
Hi Carolyn,
You purchase Five Spices in the Asian Foods section of the grocery store. It is literally a mixture of different spices. The one I use called “Chinese Style Five Spice” is made of fennel, anise, ginger, licorice roots, cinnamon and clove. Why there are six spices in this five spice concoction, I don’t know. But it is the most popular kind.
Thanks for your question.
Shari said,
August 21, 2008 at 10:34 am
Hi Susan! I just finished my first 10 day fast following the Daniel Principles and using your cookbook recipes. Your insight and instructions proved to be of great benefit during this time. I have come across a tasty recipe that I believe will fall in the Daniel fast guidelines. I am listing the ingredients so that you can look it over and let me know your opinion! Be blessed!
Spaghetti with Sweet Pepper Sauce
whole wheat spaghetti, olive oil, onion, sweet peppers red wine vinegar, peeled ground plum tomatoes, salt & pepper
Susan Gregory said,
August 22, 2008 at 6:36 am
Sweet Shari,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I greatly appreciate them.
Also, the recipe looks great! Thanks for taking the time to write the post and for sharing your success and ideas with others.
Be blessed!
shon said,
September 2, 2008 at 4:35 pm
hi!
your website is a blessing! our Bible study group has started the fast together today (September 2, 2008)
for me, i’m asking for clarity about my life. please pray for our group (it’s a small number of us-7) i think everyone else was a bit frightened by what we can’t do but forgetting that its all about getting closer to God!
thank you and God Bless!
Tabbetha said,
September 5, 2008 at 6:03 am
Good Morning All,
Our entire Music Ministry began the Daniel Fast yesterday and the questions have really started coming in. One lady in our group has a cold and wanted to know if there was anything in particular that would help other than medications. She normally drinks
chicken broth and that knocks it out in a couple of days, however we know that is
not allowed. Any suggestions?
Your site has been an awesome resource for us. Thank you so much
Tabbetha
Susan Gregory said,
September 7, 2008 at 11:51 am
Hi Tabbetha,
I find the best way to abate or rid a cold is to increase vitamin C and drink lots of water. It’s true that chicken soup has healing qualities as science has proved. But since vitamin C is also great.
Be blessed on your Daniel Fast.
Miss Andi Passaro said,
September 12, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Hi Susan,
I just downloaded your cookbook. Thank you so much. I’m on day 10 & I needed ideas. You have my word that I won’t steal from you by giving this book to others. Blessings to you and your family.
Miss Andi
MICHELLE JOHNSON said,
September 13, 2008 at 3:53 pm
SUSAN,
IS CHICKEN BROTH OK FOR THE DANIEL FAST?
Susan Gregory said,
September 13, 2008 at 4:29 pm
Hi Michelle,
No, only plant-based foods are allowed on the Daniel Fast. I substitute vegetable broth if a recipe calls for chicken or beef broth. The flavor is a little different and so I adjust the seasoning. But the difference isn’t that much.
Be blessed on your fast!
Misia said,
September 22, 2008 at 9:33 am
Hi Susan, I’m about to embark on the 40 day fast as part of the Call for California. I pretty much get the “do’s and dont’s” of this Daniel fast, but I have two questions: What about “100% fruit juice” that is from concentrate, but has no additives except for citric acid? Also, what about soya sauce.. I’ve heard it contains wheat product? Thank you so much!
Susan Gregory said,
September 22, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Hi Misia,
Congratulations on your fast and for supporting The Call for California.
Juice from concentrate is okay, but I do want to point out that many “Daniel Fast purists” drink only water during the fast. That’s because of the account of the prophets fast in Daniel 1. So if you are using the juice as a beverage, then you might want to read Daniel 1, pray about it and see how the Holy Spirit directs you.
Also, there is nothing wrong with wheat in the Daniel Fast, it’s processed wheat that is not to be consumed. The problem with most soy sauce is that it contains sugar and/or chemicals. READ THE LABEL and see if the ingredients include either. I am able to find a store brand that is sugar-free and chemical-free.
Be blessed on your fast and thanks for your post!
chuck said,
September 24, 2008 at 10:40 am
What about ketchup? It has High Fructose Corn Syrup?
just about everything does! Also all those words I can’t pronounce, are those considered chemicals. Is citric acid a chemical or natural? Help! 
Susan Gregory said,
September 24, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Hi Chuck,
You already have found what many others on the Daniel Fast learn and that’s the amazing number for foods that contain sugar and chemicals! Prepared ketchup has sugar and the sugarless varieties include chemicals. If you really want ketchup, it’s very easy to make, although it does take time to cook into the thickened sauce. Here is an easy recipe:
Ingredients:
2 large cans tomato sauce
2 cups vinegar
2 chopped red peppers
1 tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons dry mustard
2 ½ teaspoons allspice
Add all ingredients into a large saucepan. Simmer until cooked down into a thickness you like. You can also add other spices and herbs to flavor the ketchup to your liking.
This can take a couple hours . . . but you will have sugar-free ketchup!
Have a great fast and thanks for the post!
Chuck said,
September 24, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Ok, I have one more. If I am looking at the label and in the ingredients area it says nothing of sugar, but up in the nutritional facts area it says like 4g’s, is that something I lay off of? Or is it just a sugar found inside of the Fruit/Veg/Whole grain?
Linda Goff said,
September 28, 2008 at 3:27 am
Hi Susan, I just read your “thoughts message” and found that I agree with you. It is because of what is going on in the world that I am doing the Daniel Fast/Diet, whichever it is called. I have just finished my 21st day and I intend to stay with it. I try to avoid gathering where food is being served not because I am tempted to partake of it but I have to explain myself, but so far so good. What I am doing is between my God and me and it is not always easy to explain to non believers or even some Christians. Thank you for of the encouraging notes. God Bless.
Liz said,
September 28, 2008 at 10:40 am
Hi,
I have tols about seven people about my plan to fast. I’ve never done this before and just read that I should keep it to myself. Should I go ahead and fast on my scheduled date or wait until it has been forgotten by who I’ve told?
Susan Gregory said,
September 28, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Hi Liz,
Yes, be sure to go ahead with your fast. Sometimes it’s okay to tell people you will be fasting. It all depends on your motive. This is one of the areas where we need to search our hearts and consider why we are sharing the information. If it’s to gain the approval of others, then the Bible says you get your reward . . . but not from the Lord. However, if you are sharing your plans for accountability and support, then that is a totally different matter.
If the former, go to the Lord, confess your mistake and He will forgive you. If it was the later, then move on and continue to gain accountability and support from your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Be blessed!
Liz Howard said,
September 29, 2008 at 9:03 am
I am starting my Daniel fast today and need to get 140g of protein. But what’s the best way to do this. I bought some pure brown rice protein. Thanks, liz
Susan Gregory said,
September 29, 2008 at 10:33 am
Hi Liz,
Are you an athlete? I am not a nutritionist, but from what I know, 140g of protein is really a lot. Here is the calculation I am accustomed to:
How to Calculate Your Protein Needs:
1. Weight in pounds divided by 2.2 = weight in kg
2. Weight in kg x 0.8 to 1.8 gm/kg = protein gm.
Use a lower number if you are in good health and are sedentary. Use a higher number (between 1 and 1.8) if you are under stress, are pregnant, are recovering from an illness, or if you are involved in consistent and intense weight or endurance training.
An example using this formula: 154 lb male who is a regular exerciser and lifts weights. His weight is 154 lbs/2.2 = 70kg. Therefore, 70kg x 1.5 = 105 gm protein/day.
During the Daniel Fast most people needing higher protein focus on tofu because of its high protein content. For example, a 1/2 cup serving of tofu has 10.1 grams of protein. Black-eyed peas and cooked spinach are also very high in protein.
Okay, in the event that you do need that much protein due to special needs, then 1) contact your health provider; and 2) find other sources and keep them in your Daniel Fast such as fish and chicken.
I hope this helps!
sheandolen said,
September 30, 2008 at 8:18 am
Good Morning,
I would like to know if anyone has the recipe for the water with cayenne pepper in it as a part of the Daniel Fast.
Susan Gregory said,
September 30, 2008 at 8:49 am
Hi Sheandolen,
There is a detox/diet known as the Cayenne Water Diet. However, it is not associated with the Daniel Fast. While one of the side benefits of the Daniel Fast is detox and weight loss, it is not it’s primary function. Rather, the Daniel Fast is for spiritual purposes. A true fast is to “restrict foods for spiritual purposes.” Whereas a diet is to restrict foods for health purposes. There is nothing wrong with using the Daniel Fast way of eating as a “diet.” But it would be that: The Daniel Diet.
The same goes with other detox programs. I have not used the Water and Cayenne Detox Diet and I am not a nutritionist or dietician. However, here is the recipe. You can Google “cayenne diet” and read many pros and cons of this detox program.
The recipe is:
2 tablespoons real maple syrup
2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice or lime juice
1/10 of a teaspoon cayenne pepper
8 oz. water, preferably distilled or bottled water.
I hope this answers your question.
Lynda D said,
September 30, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Susan,
I can’t believe I found your site. Just like God, huh! I saw in the Christian Healthcare newsletter that a lady with severe diabetes, on both pills and insulin had gone on the Daniel fast and got healed. I know it’s something I’ve been needing to do for a while, but guess it’s good to get God’s confirmation when it’s this drastic. Anyway, it’s confirmed. So, my question is–Can a person stay on a Daniel fast for longer than 21 days? I know I will have to monitor my blood sugar meds and insulin dosage very carefully, but I know with God’s help I am up to the challenge. So glad I’ll be able to get encouragement and advise from you and your group along the way. God has been dealing with me for quite some time to submit this area of my life to His control. He promised me my healing from this horrible disease when I found out that I had it. It’s just taken me 8 years to get ready enough to bit the bullet and follow his leading in this. Again, thanks for going before us!
Susan Gregory said,
October 1, 2008 at 10:37 am
Hi Lynda,
I hear many reports of men and women being healed of diabetes while on the Daniel Fast. I also have received and read reports of people being healed of cancer. What great news!
FIRST: Be sure to check out any dietary change with your health professional. Keep in mind that I am not a nutritionist, a medical profession or a dietician.
With all that said, the Daniel Fast is a very healthy way to eat. You will want to eat more tofu and bean-rice dishes so that you get enough protein. And don’t forget the power of prayer! Also, just as Jesus taught us to speak to trees and mountains – you can speak to your body with faith words.
Be blessed and I hope complete healing for you!
Latisah said,
October 2, 2008 at 7:13 am
Can you use red wine vinegar and seasoning like lemon pepper and garlic pwoder.
Susan Gregory said,
October 2, 2008 at 11:45 am
Hi Latisah,
Yes, you can use red wine vinegar and seasonings on the Daniel Fast. Be sure to read the label for ingredients. Everything on the Daniel Fast should be free of chemicals and/or sweeteners.
Be blessed!
CONNIE said,
October 5, 2008 at 12:39 pm
HELLO ALL,
I’M THANKFUL THIS SITE IS AVAILABLE. IT HAS HELPED ME ALOT. OUR CHURCH HAS STARTED THE DANIEL FAST. HOWEVER I’VE TRIED TO GET THE COOKBOOK AND THE DOWNLOAD PROCESS IS NOT GOING WELL.
ALL IS WELL, GOD BLESS ALL!
Kathi Stout said,
October 8, 2008 at 6:08 am
Can I have soy butter ? thanks Kathi
Susan Gregory said,
October 10, 2008 at 8:04 am
Hi Connie,
Thanks for your kind words. Also, since your post the download issue has been resolved.
For those reading this post, please make sure to check your spam catcher when you post messages to me or when you order the books.
Be blessed!
Susan Gregory said,
October 10, 2008 at 8:09 am
Hi Kathi,
I don’t use soy butter, so I am not sure of the ingredients. That’s the key issue. Check the label for the ingredients. If it is free of sugar, chemicals and other substances not allowed on the Daniel Fast, then it should be fine.
Thanks for the question! Be blessed!
Linda said,
October 18, 2008 at 6:28 am
Susan, are you still sending out updates. I received 1 update since I purchased the cookbooks. I just want to make sure there is nothing wrong with my computer system or web mail.
Thanks for all you are doing. I really appreciate it.
Cheryl Patchett said,
October 21, 2008 at 5:08 pm
Susan, In your response regarding exclusion of milk! Does that include soy milk?
Cheryl.
Susan Gregory said,
October 22, 2008 at 6:26 am
Hi Linda,
Sorry for my late reply. I am currently out of the country and don’t have immediate access to the Internet.
Regarding updates: I still send them periodically and they will increase in the next little while. I am working on a new book about Walking in the Spirit . . . which I hope will be a blessing to everyone, especially as we go through the present-day turmoil.
So, please keep an eye out for more . . . and thanks for asking.
Be blessed!
Susan Gregory said,
October 22, 2008 at 6:29 am
Hi Cheryl,
Soy milk and rice milk are allowed on the Daniel Fast, but be sure to read the ingredients as most of them add sweeteners (no sweeteners are allowed on the Daniel Fast). I am able to purchase unsweetened soy milk, which is pure soy beans and water. The flavor it great and works for cereal.
I hope this helps!
Cheryl Patchett said,
October 23, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Hi Susan, Thank you! Yes, your information does help! Praise God He went before me prior to purchase of brand I use! Was introduced to it by friend who had allergy to sugar! Brand(VITA SOY)
Cheryl Patchett said,
October 23, 2008 at 10:16 pm
Hi Susan, Thank you! Yes the information you gave me does help! Praise God He went before me prior to my purchasing the brand I use! A friend who has allergy to sugar introduced me to it! Brand(VITA SOY)
Jennifer said,
November 2, 2008 at 7:50 pm
Hi Susan,
My husband and I downloaded your book and cookbook. The information has been very helpful. I had two questions, the first it if no bread is allowed why are tortillas ok to eat, arent they considered a flat bread, and if they are ok to eat are indian rotis ok to eat, they are made with whole wheat flour that is ground very fine, you mix with water, olive oil, and salt. And my second question is, how much food can you eat? Is it ok that I eat a meal till I’m satisfied or should I eat barely anything in order to still feel hungry? This last question has been a great burden for me. I want to do the best that I can and give God the best that I have to offer through my fasting. Thanks for your time and ministry
Grace & Peace
Jennifer
Susan Gregory said,
November 2, 2008 at 8:34 pm
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for the compliments on the sight. This is all a wonderful blessing to me as I am able to be in touch with men and women from all over the world as they seek a deeper relationship with God.
The issue with bread has to do with yeast and leavening. Eliminating all leavening is part of Jewish fasting practices (i.e. Passover). Just as Matzo is allowed during Passover, flat bread made without any leavening is allowed on the Daniel Fast. So any flat bread that is made without leavening is okay.
Regarding meal size and hunger – you should feel satisfied, however I think it’s good to eat only three meals and a couple snacks rather whenever one has a hunger pang. This is part of the fast in being in “control of the flesh,” but it’s also part of eating in a healthier manner.
I pray and ask the Holy Spirit to guide me and ask that He reveal to me when I am being wise and when it’s more carnal. He is always good about guiding me as I fast.
Be blessed on you fast. I hope this helps, but feel free to contact me if you have any other questions.
Grace said,
November 3, 2008 at 7:00 pm
Hi Susan,
Thanks for this website its an absolute blessing to those of us who haven’t a clue what we’re doing! LOL!
So im starting the fast tomorrow… went to the grocery store today and looked through an entire section of Peanut Butter…I only found 1 that didn’t have sugar in the ingredients… listed was peanuts and salt only… On the label read 1g of Sugar though….. confused?? Can I have this??
Susan Gregory said,
November 4, 2008 at 7:13 am
Good morning Grace,
Thanks for your question. You’ve discovered how many foods have sugar added, even when we don’t realize it!
What is NOT allowed on the Daniel Fast is the addition of sugar as an ingredient in a prepared food. The natural sugar in food is okay. So on the food labels, there are two places where sugar might be noted. DO NOT select foods that have sugar as in ingredient. However, foods with sugar as a nutrient are okay.
I hope this helps! God bless you on your fast.
Grace said,
November 4, 2008 at 10:00 am
Susan,
Thank you sooo much! this definately helps… Have a blessed day!
Grace said,
November 4, 2008 at 5:08 pm
Hi Susan,
grace here again…. so I know its fine to have potatoes and onions and also olive oil, conola oil and etc.. BUT can i fry the potatoes and onions using one of these oils or is that considered like french fries??
Grace said,
November 5, 2008 at 3:03 pm
can i have vanilla soymilk with Ezekial cereal??
Susan Gregory said,
November 5, 2008 at 7:35 pm
Hi Grace,
Most flavored soymilk contains sweetener, which would make it NOT allowed on the Daniel Fast. I use unsweetened soymilk and the ingredients are soybeans and water only. You could always add vanilla to unsweetened soymilk if you like the flavor.
I am not familiar with Ezekiel cereal, but I encourage you to read the label to see if the ingredients are free of sweeteners and yeast. Some people think Ezekiel Bread is allowed on the Daniel Fast, but it is NOT. Most Ezekiel Bread includes honey and yeast as ingredients, causing them to be avoided during the Daniel Fast.
I hope this helps! Be blessed on your fast.
Katrese Gasper said,
November 6, 2008 at 10:31 am
Can you eat pickles?
Grace said,
November 6, 2008 at 12:11 pm
hmm…organic evaporated cane juice?? is that sugar? and the label says natural vanilla flavor…
Susan Gregory said,
November 7, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Hi Katrese,
Yes, unsweetened pickles are okay. Be sure to read the label and make sure there are no ingredients added that are not consistent with the Daniel Fast. Especially look for sugar and chemicals.
Be blessed on your fast!
Susan Gregory said,
November 7, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Hi Grace,
Yes, cane juice is from sugar cane. It is the liquid extracted from the cane and which is later turned into granulated sugar. So, it would not be allowed on the Daniel Fast. The natural vanilla would be fine, however.
I hope this helps!
tina said,
November 20, 2008 at 11:45 am
Being that a pickle comes from a cucumber, does that make it a vegetable and is it a food that can be eaten on the fast?
Susan Gregory said,
November 20, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Hi Tina,
Pickles are fine, but you need to read the label to see if there are any ingredients that are NOT okay. For example any kind of sweetener or chemicals listed would make those particular pickles not allowed. However, if they are a dill pickle with just vinegar and spices, then they would be okay.
Bottom line: READ THE LABEL
Be blessed on your fast!
Lorraine Clark said,
November 22, 2008 at 2:20 pm
I am interested in doing the 2009 Daniel Fast and would like to give my church information on it as well – when will it start and are there packets for churches?
Susan Gregory said,
November 23, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Hi Lorraine,
The New Year Daniel Fast will start for most on Sunday, January 4th. However, there is no hard rule as to when the Daniel Fast begins. However, there are thousands of people who start the New Year with prayer and fasting for 21 days. And they usually start it on the first Sunday in January.
I will soon have a brochure ready which I will send to churches and their members about the Daniel Fast. I will send it to everyone on the Daniel Fast mailing list, so if you are on the list, you will receive it. You can then give it to your pastor who can make arrangements to copy it and distribute it to the congregation if s/he so desires.
Thanks for asking!
Leyda said,
November 24, 2008 at 11:16 am
Hi Susan,
FYI, to bloggers unsure about Boca Burgers, this is the ingredient list: WATER, SOY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, WHEAT GLUTEN, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% MALT EXTRACT, SALT, WHEAT STARCH, YEAST EXTRACT, SUGAR, NATURAL FLAVOR (NON-MEAT), DRIED ONIONS, GARLIC POWDER, SPICES.
It does contain yeast, not viewed favorably in Daniel’s time in fasting and SUGAR, Just wanted to list it because many people ask about this. Maybe someone can share a recipe for homemade veggie patties…
May God bless all fasters.
Susan Gregory said,
November 24, 2008 at 6:33 pm
Hi Leyda,
You are so wonderful to take the time to share this information on the blog. Thank you, thank you and thank you so more!
One thing people soon learn when they start the Daniel Fast is the importance of reading ingredients lists on prepared foods. One of the most stunning surprises is all the sugar and sweeteners added to foods. No wonder America is splitting at the seams!
Be blessed, generous one. Thanks for visiting the blog.
R. Reynolds said,
November 29, 2008 at 6:28 pm
I am feeling ready to enter a fast December 1st. To go out of the year with seeking a cleansing spiritually as well as physically. I have only fasted a little in the past, and failed many attempts. I am looking for some encouragment and support maybe as I find fasting to be very much of a struggle for my flesh and will. Thanks so much for any encouragment.
Deshawn said,
December 2, 2008 at 5:19 am
Good Morning Susan,
On the Daniel Fast can I eat cream of broccoli soup?
Rhonda said,
December 2, 2008 at 8:52 am
I’ve been on the Daniel Fast for 4 days. Of course, the caffeine headache started late on the first day. The night of the second day, I started having pain in my joints – from my pelvis down to my feet. The pain has seemed to creep up my spine as time goes by. My husband wonders if it is lack of something I’m normally getting, and could it be a withdrawal symptom or something more serious? I slept in fits and starts, for no more than 45 minutes at a time, because I was in so much pain the last couple of nights.
I do water fasts for a day once a week, and this has never happened before. I am a relatively healthy 32 year old, but I do tend toward anemia. I’m also a former smoker – I’ve been quit for 5 months.
Have you ever heard of this as a side effect of fasting? I love the Lord, and I know he’ll take care of me. I just want to make sure I’m not doing something with more zeal than wisdom.
I really appreciate your site. It’s been great in helping my husband and I to get ready for this fast. It’s a corporate fast with our church, and we’re excited to see what the Lord does.
God bless you!
Susan Gregory said,
December 2, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Hi Rhonda,
First, I always encourage people to check with their medical professionals if you feel the need. Fasting should always be good for you and never cause any harm. So if you feel you are in danger, give your doc a call!
With that said, you could be suffering from detox. The last time I fasted I was amazed at the level of pain I had from detoxing from sugar and caffeine, especially since I don’t use all that much of either.
Make sure you are drinking lots and lots of filtered water. You need at least 1/2 gallon a day.
These symptoms should pass in about three days. But again, if your inner wisdom is stirring, then give your doctor a call.
Be blessed and thanks for writing and for your kind words!
Susan Gregory said,
December 2, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Hi Deshawn,
Sorry, no dairy products at all on the Daniel Fast. So Cream of Broccoli soup is out
Thanks for posting the question!
Susan Gregory said,
December 2, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Hi R. Reynolds,
I am so sorry for this late reply. I have had my head buried in a new eBook I am writing and have just come up for air.
One encouragement I would like to pass on to you is that you are a spirit, you have a soul (flesh) and you live in a body. Feed all three with good nutrition that will bring it life. Your spirit needs the Word of God, your soul needs healthy inputs, and your body needs good quality food.
When I fast, I often have little “talks” with my flesh as it tries to rebel. Just as a child needs to be disciplined, so does our flesh. Put your spirit in control. Tell your flesh to quiet down and behave! This may sound funny, but believe me, it works.
I hope the very best for you on your fast!
Deshawn said,
December 4, 2008 at 8:11 am
On the fast Can I have Vegetable rennet cheese, its cheese vegetarians eat?
Deshawn said,
December 7, 2008 at 3:50 pm
I have a question about no tea… what is the reason for no tea on the fast? Is it because of the caffeine? what about herbal tea?
Susan Gregory said,
December 8, 2008 at 7:30 am
Hi Deshawn,
Thanks for the question. I can certainly understand why not drinking tea seems odd. The primary reason is that the Daniel Fast is a “water only” fast as far as beverages go. That’s based on the fast Daniel and his companions entered into in Daniel 1 where they ate only vegetables and drank only water. The other account of Daniel’s fasting that create the guidelines for the Daniel Fast are found in Daniel 12 where he ate no meat or precious food and drank no wine. These two records serve as the foundation for the Daniel Fast guidelines. Added to that are Jewish dietary and fasting practices.
I hope this helps . . . the reason no tea is allowed is because in Daniel 1, he drank only water.
Deshawn said,
December 10, 2008 at 9:07 am
Good afternoon, did you find anything out about the Vegetable rennet cheese or soy cheese?
Susan Gregory said,
December 16, 2008 at 11:58 am
Hi Deshawn,
I’ve seem some vegan cheeses, which are made without any animal products. Most contain synthetic rennet, with which I am not real familiar. If you want to use cheese during the Daniel Fast, I encourage you to talk to a health food expert at a natural food store. They will likely have much more information and knowledge than I can offer.
If you do gain more information, I would love to hear from you so I can share the news with others!
Be blessed on your New Year fast.
Anthony said,
December 11, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Hi Susan, my name is Anthony and i purchased both your books and enjoyed your responses to the questions everybody was giving you.I have not been on your site in a while and would really like to know how your 40 day fast turned out and what were your experiences during that time.I am planing to commence another PRAYER and Fast at the beginning of the year and would like to communicate to you by email if possible.Your response would be greatly appreciated……Thank-You…..Anthony.
Jennifer said,
December 17, 2008 at 8:53 pm
Hi Susan,
I really like your web site. I have felt led for a while to fast but I’m having a hard time getting started! If I go for just a day without coffee or soda I start feeling queasy and get a headache and then I give in. Please pray I can do this. I know I need to fast because every time I reach for pop or sweets something inside me says, “do without this today.” I want to be led by the Lord of what I should put into my body because the Bible does say that our bodies are a temple but I sure don’t treat it like it is! I have been in prayer about some things concerning my church and also the lost in my community. I know if I fast God will answer my prayers.
Thank you for reading this and I can tell just by reading your replies to people that you seem so sweet! Thank you, Jennifer
Susan Gregory said,
December 24, 2008 at 6:30 am
Dearest Jennifer,
Thank you so much for your comment on the Daniel Fast Blog! God is so good.
I hope the very best for you on your fast. I pray that you will gain great understanding about your body, soul and spirit as you experience this “whole body fast.”
Be blessed dear one!
Joyce E. said,
December 18, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Hi Susan!
Jan 2009 will be my third year starting the year off with the Daniel Fast. I am so looking forward to it!!! I’m starting to get my mind and spirit ready (and menu plans..).
I was wondering if you knew the biblical significance of the upcoming year “2009″. 2007 was the year of “completion” or “healing” and 2008 was the year of “New Beginnings”. I found it really helped me spiritually to know what the year was symbolic for. I was able to see God move in ways I hadn’t imagined.
So, if you or anyone who reads this can help, please do.
May the Lord bless you all now and in this upcoming new year. May he take you higher in him than you ever thought imaginable.
Susan Gregory said,
December 24, 2008 at 6:33 am
Hi Joyce,
From what I can find, the number nine has two references as far as Bible numerology is concerned. I don’t know a lot about this, but the number nine relates to the nine spiritual gifts and the number of judgment.
I’m sorry I can’t offer any more assistance. If I learn more I will post it!
Be blessed on your fast!
Amy said,
December 20, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Could you answer a question? I work out six days a week and lift weights for one hour for four of those days. I try to keep my protein intake at my weight (around 130grams) so I have energy and proper muscle repair. Aside from beans how would you suggest I get the proper intake? I don’t want to make myself sick.
Thank You
Susan Gregory said,
December 24, 2008 at 6:37 am
Hi Amy,
Fasting should never bring harm to the body. It seems that in your case, you have a special dietary need for increased protein. Beans and rice, nuts, whole grains and soy-based products are high in protein and you might be able to get by with centering your meals around those foods.
However, your situation calls for a “special need.” Just as pregnant and nursing women need extra protein. So adding an appropriate amount of fish or chicken would be okay.
I hope this helps.
Bridgette Mongeon said,
December 23, 2008 at 6:21 am
I was wondering if you would be available for a podcast interview for our podcast Inspiration/Generations It is a podcast of three generations sharing their thoughts about different issues and aspects of life. The hosts are my daughter Chris, 24, mom 72 and myself 48. Something for all generations. My daughter brought up the Daniel fast and I thought it might be good to interview someone about it as well as provide resource links from our blog. We would however ask that you send us two copies of the books. One to Chris and one to myself. Please let me know if you are interested. I would like to do this podcast in the first part of January as the podcast about our resolutions and Chris taking about the Daniel fast goes up the first. The podcast can be found at http://www.godsword.net The podcast link is on the left.
Thanks for your response
Bridgette Mongeon
Susan Gregory said,
December 24, 2008 at 7:20 am
Hi Bridgette,
I sent you an email . . . I would be happy to coordinate in interview. I know the value of the Daniel Fast and the power of prayer and fasting for the faithful. My hope is that more and more people would learn of this faith-building discipline.
Be blessed on your fast!
Janet said,
December 23, 2008 at 6:49 pm
I would like to know more specifically what things are considered food additives. Alot of the juices that I have looked at which are also organic have ascorbic acid, citric acid, and beta carotene, etc. added. Even the all natural applesauce has vitamin c added. I just want to make sure I am properly following the guidelines for the Daniel Fast especially since I have never done this before.
Thanks.
Susan Gregory said,
December 24, 2008 at 7:35 am
Hi Janet,
Thanks for this post about juices and additives. First, let me state that I believe the Word calls us to drink water only on the Daniel Fast. This is from Daniel 1 where Daniel and his companions ate only vegetables and drank only water. So I encourage you to drink only water during the fast . . .
Regarding additives: this can be tough as it’s not clear if these additives are naturally derived or chemicals. Because of that, I usually try to avoid any that are suspect during the Daniel Fast. I also pray and ask the Holy Spirit to guide me when I am unclear. If I sense a prompting in my spirit one way on the other . . . I follow it!
I know this doesn’t answer your question specifically. But I do know that you can find all the food you need for the Daniel Fast that are free of any additives that may not be okay during the Daniel Fast.
I hope this helps!
Judy Critz said,
December 28, 2008 at 7:45 pm
I paid for the Daniel Fast and downloaded the file and it is corrupted. Please contact me or email a good copy to me. Thanks, Judy
Kimberly said,
December 28, 2008 at 8:15 pm
My daughter and I have started our fast for 2009 the day after Christmas 2008. We are going on a school trip in January and will not have access to proper foods for the Daniel fast.
We really want to honor God and increase our daily walk with the Lord.
My daughter is in the 9th grade and I need suggestions for her lunch. She doesn’t have access to a microwave at school to warm up food.
Help!!
God Bless You Susan for this ministry.
Thanks
Sandy Genthner said,
December 28, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Susan,
Thank you so much for your encouragement and the organized way you prepare everyone who wants to participate in this fast. You certainly take the guess work out and inspire us to seek a deeper walk with the Lord. This is my prayer. But my question is that I originally started with 2-3 basic reasons to fast and this morning my sister-in-law came to me and asked if I would join her in a 30 day fast to pray for two of her 4 children. She did not know of my plans to fast. I said of course I would add them to my list as they are my niece and nephew and there is a great need. Can I have too big of a list for my fast. And my brother asked that we pray for our aunt’s healing. I know nothing is too hard for God and my heart goes out to each of these request. Should I be more focused on just a few things?
Sandy
Angela Davis said,
December 29, 2008 at 10:53 am
Yesterday, I joined your site for the required $7.77 per month. I wanted to download your book “The Daniel Fast, 2008 Cookbook” for $8.95. $16.72 was removed from my paypal account and I cannot figure out a way to download the book. I tried every number that you supplied in the email and nothing is working. A site like this, where you take other people’s money should at least have a contact number to get hold of someone when some thing like this arises. But then I also see that the last time anyone blogged on this site was in Jan. 2008. You can either credit my paypal account or give me advice and a contact number on how to download this book, Thank you very much. Sincerely, Angela Davis
Nancy Andre said,
December 29, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Susan:
My church is embarking on a collective Daniel Fast beginning January 5. I am so encouraged by your web site. The recipes in the cook book look very tasty. My daughter, granddaughter and I are excited about joining together in this as it will be a total household endeavor. We are going to seek the Lord with all our might. We all have great hope for revelation and getting closer to God. Thanks again for all your hard work.
Debbie said,
December 29, 2008 at 7:27 pm
I just purchased the recipe e-book tonight and I can’t wait to get started with The Daniel Fast. I’ve been struggling with eating the wrong things & wrong portions and have prayed about starting a different bible based study for emotional eating. I just didn’t hear from the Lord that it was the right plan. As I was researching different plans online, I stumbled on someone’s comment about Daniel Fast and found your website. He made it clear that this is the path I need to follow. I hope to lose weight, of course, but above that I pray to hear from God and gain strength against the strongholds in my life. Blessings!
Paul said,
December 29, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Yet another evangelical fad. Yawn. I remember vividly the Hallelujah diet craze a few years ago. After a few ended up in the hospital, or turned orange from juicing carrots, the fad died. Here we go again.
Susan Gregory said,
January 3, 2009 at 7:56 am
Hi Paul,
I wasn’t sure if you would really receive this message as your email address looks suspect. But I thought I would respond to your comment anyway.
The Daniel Fast is merely a method of fasting . . . it is a partial fast. But fasting is the big deal. And since more and more Christians are understanding the power of prayer and fasting, they are getting into it. I consider today’s fasting as “dusting off an ancient discipline.” Both the Old and the New Testaments refer to fasting as a normal part of our spiritual discipline. Yet most Protestant churches left it long ago.
But now, as people hunger for God, they are coming back into the powerful discipline of prayer and fasting. The Daniel Fast is just a way to fast. It’s a partial fast based on the records of Daniel fasting in the Book of Daniel.
I hope this helps . . . and I do encourage you to fast . . . and if the Daniel Fast works for you if you choose an extended fast, then please come back to this blog because my whole purpose is to help people like move into a successful experience.
Be blessed in the New Year!
Grace Crescenzo said,
December 30, 2008 at 7:46 am
I see this was my mistake. I was expecting something different. Please accept my apologies.
Your website has offered many priceless bits of information. I helped tremendously.
Blessings to you and your wonderful ministry.
Grace
Curt said,
December 30, 2008 at 10:43 am
Susan,
I work out quite a bit (Cardio and lifting). Can I continue to work out during the fast? Or should I stop during the fast or at least cut back? If I’m allowed to continue working out is there anyway to supplement protein or is that considered bad for the Daniel Fast?
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2009 at 4:55 pm
HI Curt,
It seems that you move into the “special diet” category of faster. I tell people that fasting should never harm the body. So if you have special needs because of your extensive needs, then it’s totally okay to alter the fast to meet your physical needs. With that said, the Daniel Fast is also full of protein if you choose the right recipes. Bean and rice make complete protein. Whole grains are excellent, and when mixed with legumes they are packed with protein. You still may need more, so if that’s the case, just alter the eating plan.
There is no need on cutting back unless you need to do so to make time to spend in study and prayer.
I hope this helps.
Shica said,
December 30, 2008 at 3:33 pm
Sandy-I’m a somewhat veteran faster,so I’ll help you out with your question.Nothing is too big for God to handle & it seems like there can be a lot on your relational plate right now.If these are things that are on your mind,certainly you should give it to God to handle-no matter if you’re fasting or not-this is key.Personally,I make sure to develop fasting objectives before I begin a fast.I also have a heart for others,so I reach out to persons in my life to see if there is anything I can partner with them on.I sit down each evening during the fast & pray for them,then write a personal note that I mail to let them know what I’ve heard.Keep in mind that we should be spending more time with God as we fast-might want to consider cutting out TV,radio,& other possible & unnecessary distractions.But-this is YOUR fast.You have to focus on what God has in your heart…
Jessica said,
January 1, 2009 at 8:35 am
I have a few things that are in question to me about the diet. Are these foods acceptable:
seasoned salt, bouillon cubes, vegetable oil
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Hi Jessica,
Pure spices, herbs and spice blends are all acceptable on the Daniel Fast if they are free of chemicals and sugar. Vegetarian bouillon is okay, but again you will need to READ THE LABEL to see if the ingredient list has any sugar or other no-no substances.
Good quality vegetables oils are acceptable, but the best for our health is olive oil.
Be blessed on your fast!
julie said,
January 1, 2009 at 8:43 pm
On the daniel fast can we eat fruits & veggies? and one hudred present juice?
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Hi Julie,
The Daniel Fast eating plan is like a vegan diet with even greater restrictions. In Daniel 1 we learn that the prophet and his companions ate only vegetables (including fruits) and drank only water. This is the fine line that juiced fruit for smoothies are okay on the Daniel Fast, but the “beverage” should only be water.
Be blessed on your fast.
Carl said,
January 2, 2009 at 8:16 am
Susan,
I pray that God refreshes you spirit, soul and body from all the out-pouring you’ve done and are doing. I thank God for my sister in Christ that provided me this website to assist me in our Corporate fast beginning today, 03-JAN-2009. I’ve partaken in the Daniel fast once before and this BLOG has been informative and a source of strength and blessings.
To all who may read this God Bless and strengthen you in your fast as you draw near to God, He will draw near to you.
In Love , peace and blessings..
Kenneth said,
January 2, 2009 at 12:24 pm
Is it ok to take vitamins & minerals during the fast? Thank you
Ashley said,
January 3, 2009 at 2:24 pm
Hello, i am a senior in college who is graduating in May. i found out about the fast purely by accident at my job when my co-worker left a copy of his Daniel’s Diet on the printer. i want to use the fast to lose weight but i am also lacking in my faith and would like to renew it. Is there a place i can go and see the foods that I am able to eat? Is it possible to drink flavored water or natural fruit juice like Naked juice? Also would Granola bars be ok? As a working college student, I pretty much eat on the go. I am going to my local Sam’s Club to bulk up on food and need a pretty good i dea of what to get? My last question is is salad dressing apprporiate? I thank you for your insight.
Stay Blessed and Happy New Year
Heather Smith said,
January 4, 2009 at 11:34 am
Thanks Susan so much for this website! I cannot tell you just how informative it has been for me. Starting the Daniel fast, I thought, okay…I’ll never be able to do it. As I’m writing this, my head is killing me from the lack of caffiene I so love. My daughter’s Diet Dr. Pepper is silently taunting me from on the counter in the other room….
But, I’m so ready for God to pour out things to me that I know He’s ready for me to have. Thank you for listening to God and putting together this blog! I hope and pray He blesses you so abundantly this year and every year to come!
Fran said,
January 4, 2009 at 12:37 pm
I’d really like to drink sugar free cool aid on this fast. How do you feel about this? It is made with Splenda, I think. Wouldn’t this be better , calorie wise, than drinking all the natural sugars in the 100% fruit juice that you said was allowed Thank-you
Carolyn said,
January 4, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Hi Susan,
I just recently started on the Daniel Fast. I am so glad to have found this site. It is extremely helpful. I am not clear about fruit juices, beans, and peanuts. Can these been eaten during the fast?
Thanks so much.
Carolyn said,
January 4, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Hi Susan,
I just recently started the Daniel Fast. I am so happy to have found this website. It is extremely helpful. I am not clear on whether fruit juices, peanuts, and lima and pinto beans can be eaten during the fast.
Can you please clarify this for me?
Thanks.
Dawn said,
January 4, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Hello!
I’m starting the Daniel Fast tomorrow as participation in my church-wide fast and I’m quite excited to see the things that God will be doing in my life and in the lives of my church family.
I see you have had quite a good many questions about herbal tea. So I’m not the only one, ha. Before I read the information on your website I went out and bought a lot of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and 100% juice… and I also bought two boxes of organic CAFFEINE FREE herbal teas. I have asked a few members of my church, and it seems consensus that because herbal tea is caffeine free and organic, it should be alright (please don’t mistake me for being argumentative).
I have made the decision for myself that I will allow for herbal teas in my fast. 100% fruit juice is allowed in the fast, which is obviously just juiced FRUITS. I have come to the conclusion that if the INGREDIENTS in the teas (and juices) that I will be drinking seem acceptable for the fast, then the tea itself should be alright. I have a raspberry tea, which includes HIBISCUS, ROSEHIPS, CHICORY, ORANGE PEEL, BLACKBERRY LEAVES, RASPBERRY AND RASPBERRY LEAVES. The ingredients themselves seem alright (are these things that should be avoided during the Daniel Fast?). I suppose I wouldn’t go out and eat a hibiscus flower or rosehips… they don’t seem to be normal dietary staples, but the things themselves are not meat, sugar, or any other such thing. These ingredients seem to be as good themselves as fruit or vegetables.
I have thought much on the matter. I was asked by a man in my church if I should give up tea anyway, as it appeared to be something I was fighting to keep. I thought on the matter, but really I don’t want to fight about tea. I was only so curious because I already went out and bought the tea on my low budget, ha. And on another note: I wouldn’t fight for it! I had a cup last night with no sugar and it tasted awful! (just like hot water anyway) I also feel that the health benefits are so surmountable that I should be drinking unsweetened herbal tea in any case.
Well, if you have any input, I’ll surely be back to read it. You’re blessed that you’ve let God use your abilities to shine his light on the world! God Bless You! And Thank God! For EVERYTHING
Susan Gregory said,
January 4, 2009 at 4:07 pm
Hi Dawn,
I am so glad you wrote your post because this is a frequent questions!
First let me ask you a questions . . . why do you want the herbal tea? Even when it’s likely against the Daniel Fast guidelines (which it is)? The reason I ask that question is that you will see that it’s your flesh that is fighting for it . . . that’s one of the powerful lessons in fasting. Denying the flesh!
Now, here is why herbal tea is NOT allowed on the Daniel Fast. And by the way organic and caffeine-free is not the point.
In Daniel 1 we read that the Prophet at only vegetables and drank ONLY WATER. There is no herbal tea in ONLY WATER.
The only beverage allowed on the Daniel Fast is water . . .
Believe me, I can understand your desire to have herbal tea . . . but it’s like a lot of foods that are not allowed on the Daniel Fast. We can substitute all kinds of foods and change our diet, but the we lose the power of the fast.
So, I do encourage you to consider the information I’ve provided and then ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Let Him be your umpire . . .
I do hope this sheds some light on the subject, but in the end the decision is yours.
Be blessed on your fast.
T said,
January 4, 2009 at 4:51 pm
Susan
Would you do all of us a favor and post a picture of yourself and family. (and any staff you might have) You do an awesome job blogging and a think that a lot would agree with me that we would like to put a face along with that sweet spirit that flows from the pages of this website.
I can tell that you are a humble person and may not want a picture of yourself, but you deserve to honored for this ministry you have established.
John said,
January 4, 2009 at 7:44 pm
Is baking soda Ok in an ingredient such as whole wheat muffins?
Mark said,
January 4, 2009 at 8:21 pm
Hi Susan,
I am just starting my first 21-day fast. I am praying for a closer relationship with God, my family, and health and healing (I have Crohn’s Disease).
I am doing a total fast for the first 3 days and then switching over to the Daniel Fast the remaining 18 days. Do have any suggestions on what I should eat because of my colon disease or should I just stick to everything listed on the Daniel Fast? Also, do you know of anyone who was healed of this condition after the fast? I am praying very hard for this healing; my doctors can’t seem to help me but I know God can. Please pray for me and my family. Thank you for your site!
Cinde said,
January 4, 2009 at 10:44 pm
Hello Susan, I am so blessed that I found your site. I have been struggling with a sugar/carb addiction for some time now and felt God wanted me to do a fast. Our church usually does a new year fast and this year we are doing a 21 day Daniel fast, my two teenage daughters are also participating and I have downloaded both cookbooks, they are a wonderful help. I am believing to break the stronghold of food in my life, not to just loose weight but to bring my flesh into submission to the Holy Spirit. I want to overcome these issues in my life so I can be a better mother to my girls and help them become stronger Christian women. Thank you and God bless, Cinde
Bree said,
January 5, 2009 at 9:12 am
Hello Susan…
My friend and I will start our fast on Sunday, Jan 11. Quick question, are we allowed to take Cod Liver Oil while on the fast?
Susan J. Santos said,
January 5, 2009 at 10:48 am
My husband and myself are pastors at a Hispanic Church in MA.
We started the fast January 1, 2009. You don’t mention any tropical vegestables. I guess they are OK to eat as well.
Nancy Andre said,
January 5, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Susan: We have run into time crunches. I know you can make meals ahead when you’re pressed for time. Won’t the vegetables get “soggy” if they sit in the refrigerator all day? Sometimes we only have a few minutes to change, eat a quick bite and then go again. We don’t want to eat too late in the evening. This doesn’t happen often but any advice for a quick meal would be helpful. The ones in the cookbook take a while. Thanks so much for your valuable time. God bless you for the work you do.
Morgan said,
January 5, 2009 at 1:57 pm
So I started the Daniel fast today and I went and bought groceries last night. I bought the Natural tortilla chips by Tostitos thinking that since they were natural/organic that they would be ok to eat. I have been reading and some websites say that as long as they do not have any ingredients that are not on the list then they are ok to eat. I looked on the Tostitos website and they say that they are fried. Should I be eating them since the list says no fried foods? I feel bad because I wanted to be dedicated and not eat the wrong things and it looks like the first day I have already messed up.
Rick said,
January 5, 2009 at 2:55 pm
I know we still need to look at the actual ingredients, but I think people will be surprised at what food is available for a vegan. I understand there are some additional restrictions on the Daniel Diet. My dad owned a steak house since 1970 and in 2007 had triple by-pass. Since then he has been a vegan and is doing incredible. But I am amazed at what the health food stores have to offer and even Walmart have freezer sections with excellent vegan food options.
shane said,
January 5, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Is tomato puree ok to eat, the ingredients are tomato paste, salt, and citric acid. The nutrition facts says that it has 3g of sugar so I wasn`t sure.
I`m trying to find something I can eat with organic spagetti noodles.
Susan Gregory said,
January 5, 2009 at 3:40 pm
Hi Shane,
When reading the labels, our concern if for ingredients and not necessarily the nutritional list. So if all the ingredients in a prepared food are okay for the Daniel Fast, then the food is okay. I usually buy organic canned vegetables and fruits because if ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is added, it’s from natural sources. But this sounds like an okay product.
I hope this helps.
Tamara said,
January 5, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Susan~ I am looking forward to starting this fast tomorrow morning. I have a big test tomorrow and think it is perfect timing to purify and focus my energy on God. Thank you for such an informational site. I never knew until this morning there was a fast that allowed more then water. This could be a great life style to stay connected with what we as humans need for nurishment and how to assure we are focused on thanking God for the blessings of the harvests and the people growing them for us to enjoy. God bless you and all those who provide these nutrients.
David turner said,
January 5, 2009 at 3:41 pm
Dear Susan< I stumbled across your website about the Daniel Fast and I am happy to join the thousands of others who are fasting for a variey of reasons. I am long overdue for this as I have not done any fasting for 5 years. My spiritual life needs an overhaul. thank you for what you are doing. I probably won’t be doing a pure water fast only, but I will try to keep as close to that as possible.
Dianne Wilkerson said,
January 6, 2009 at 4:58 am
I very interest in making sure I’m doing this right
Dianne
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Dianne,
I tried to send you the Guidelines, but your email address is not working. You can go to:
http://www.Daniel-Fast.com
Complete the form and the Guildelines will be emailed to you.
maryann said,
January 6, 2009 at 5:07 am
Hi, please tell me exactly how to download the cook book recepies. please
let me know when so i can waite for the email.
God Bless.
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Hi Maryann,
You can purchase the Daniel Fast eBooks by clicking on this link: http://www.Daniel-Fast.com/store.html
They are easy to download! Just a click of the button. You need a copy of the free software that opens the PDF files (the industry standard) which you can download at http://get.Adobe.com/reader/
Be blessed on your fast!
Deanna said,
January 6, 2009 at 7:42 am
Hi Susan,
I was wondering if you can have sunflower oil, that is in some organic soups
Thanks
Deanna
Nick Wadson said,
January 6, 2009 at 8:44 am
I am starting a Daniel Fast with my church this Jan. I was wondering if avacados are acceptable. Also, are blue corn chips and organic salsa ok? This is not my first Daniel Fast and we are also choosing one day during these 3 weeks to do a full fast. Since I am a vegan, the Daniel Fast is not difficult to adjust to but it is more of a spiritual re-dedication to God. Someone else brought up the significance of 2009. I have heard it is the year of harvest. I am believing God for some incredible blessings such as provision for a long awaited marriage in the Philippines and continued anointing on my gift of drumming to name a few. We should also continue to keep Israel in prayer.
Marcia said,
January 6, 2009 at 10:04 am
I posted a question yesterday but it appears to have disappeared. ???
Thank you for your dedication to this site. Our church has joined the Daniel Fast, starting yesterday. Someone at church asked me a question that I couldnt find the answer to. In some of the Daniel Fast recipes from another site, Vanilla and cinammon are used. Are these allowed on the fast?
Please advise.
Steve said,
January 6, 2009 at 11:12 am
Great resource. You answered a lot of my questions on this site. I am concerned, however about promoting the use of spices and seasonings due to the specific wording of “no pleasant food” and according to the message specifically mentioning “no seasoning.”
I don’t want to be legalistic and I know that each person can adjust the fast according to their own convictions (also the most important thing is growing closer to God through prayer), but I felt this was very specific in the Bible.
Mel said,
January 6, 2009 at 2:40 pm
Hi Susan-
2 Questions:
1-Are cooking oil and vinegar allowed if cooked/boiled? A family friend (my hostess) made me a pot of lentils, excited that it would go with my fast. I asked before eating what was in it, and everything mentioned was okay. I found out later that cooking wine/vinegar were used, but the friend said the alcohol gets boiled out. Was that a violation of my fast?
2-Is municipal/tap water okay when cooking and brushing teeth?
A.V. Austin said,
January 6, 2009 at 3:21 pm
Is fish allowed on the fast
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2009 at 3:35 pm
Hi A.V.
No, fish is not allowed on the Daniel Fast. Only vegetable, fruits, whole grains and a few other foods are allowed.
You can get a copy of the Food List at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com
Be blessed on your fast!
Marilyn said,
January 6, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Hi,
I have really been blessed by you website. It has really helped me since I found it. Did you respond to the question about the fried potatoes? I didn’t see it if you did, but was wondering if it is okay to pan fry potatoes in a small amount of oil.
Thank you,
Marilyn
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Hi Marilyn,
I am still trying to answer as many of the comments and questions I can . . . there are currently 210 waiting my reply. So that’s why this girl is a little (a lot) behind!
Yes, you can saute vegetables in a small amount of olive oil or other high quality oil. So pan-fried potatoes are fine.
Sorry for the delay. PRAY FOR ME!
Be blessed on your fast, dear one!
Ricky said,
January 7, 2009 at 5:41 am
Hello Susan,
I wanted to thank you on your site it is a great resource
My wife and I started the Daniel fast on Jan 4th and we have a question. I wanted to make sure we stay with-in the regulations, is organic sugar allowed?
Mel said,
January 7, 2009 at 7:37 am
Hi Susan!
I’m sorry, I know you’re so busy. I posted 2 questions a little while ago, but the one I have more of an absolute need to know is whether we can/should use tap water for cooking/brushing teeth? (Also, when you get a minute, was the cooking wine/vinegar used by friend a violation of my fast? I know it might take you a bit to answer, as you’re a very busy woman!)
) Thanks for your servant’s heart, and may God bless you richly!!!
Ada Arroyo said,
January 7, 2009 at 10:18 am
Susan,
In reality I do not have any questions. My church started the Daniel’s Fast today 01/07/09 and I already have headaches. I am in a good mood except the headache that I assume is the two cups of coffee I did not have this morning. God bless your effort to this blog, and it is always good to find a place where you can relax reading only positive things.
Ada Arroyo
Angela Blue said,
January 7, 2009 at 12:04 pm
I have done some research on whole grains and grits is not considered a whole grain. Can you comment? Is it ok to have grits on the Daniel Fast?
Elisha said,
January 7, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Susan,
I’ve purchased the cook book. Please add me to this mailing list.
Thanks!
Bridgette Mongeon said,
January 7, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Now I know why you could not e mail me back. Looks like the posts are pretty hectic. We are looking forward to interviewing you on the God’s Word Collectibles Podcast – Inspirations/Generations We mentioned the Daniel fast in the first podcast of the year. It can be found on http://godswordcollectibles.blogspot.com/2009/01/inspirations0017-happy-new-year.html
We had hoped to interview on the 8th of January, but we can reschedule if you do not get to this.
On a side note, started my fast and went to the health food store. I’m thrilled and excited about coming up with new things. So far my favorites are..
Apple slices with almond butter. Oh my, I should have known about this before. YUM!
Found some good bulk bean soups at the health food store that were great.
Today I made a salsa out of corn, tomato, avocado, onion, pepper, and lime. Yum, ate that with celery sticks and some cool chips I found made out of seaweed They are really much better than they sound. This is fun. Everyone have a blast.
Maybe I’ll come back and post my other inventions! Oh yeah my diet is even more limited as I can’t have soy or wheat. Allergy thing. But that is o.k.
Today I am thankful for raisins. They really help that sweet tooth.
Susan, Might I suggest you add a forum to this site. That way others can answer questions and you won’t feel so stressed. There are some free ones.
Let me know when we can interview you. Looking forward to meeting on the air!
Bridgette
Curt said,
January 7, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Susan,
I was reading a book on Fasting and it explained how it’s important to be careful when breaking a fast. It listed ways to break an absolute fast. Do you have any tips for breaking the Daniel Fast?
Thanks,
Curt
lgm said,
January 7, 2009 at 3:34 pm
Susan,
Is Durum Wheat Flour & Wheat Bran (called durum atta flour at Indian market) OK? I buy it at the Indian grocery store to make chapatti (Indian tortilla). What about semolina flour. I have pasta made with that. It’s different than the whole wheat pasta. It’s lighter. I’m thinking “no”, but I figured I ask anyway . Thanks so much for your support!!
Also,last year you had a 21day devotional which was EXCELLENT. I am using it for this year. Do you have any others?
Adam Emmett said,
January 7, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Susan,
I am finding evaporated cane juice in a lot of the soy milk, any suggestions?
Susan Gregory said,
January 8, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Hi Adam,
One surprise many have when first starting the Daniel Fast is the amount of sugar and sweeteners that are added to food. A lot of people don’t know that “cane juice” is just sugar before it’s dried and granulated.
I am able to find “unsweetened” soy milk that is only 100% soy beans. I use it on cereal and in soup.
Thanks for asking the question.
Evangelist/Missionary Pauline Orr said,
January 7, 2009 at 6:44 pm
I’m doing the Daniel fast and I’m fasting for my ministry to have a home (a building to house the entire ministry); I’m praying for CDCOG – Christ Dominion Church Of God- Pastor Quan Miller and his family and the CDC members for health, prosperity, spiritual growth and a closer walk with God and to be a beacon of light for the world to see the light of God shining through each and every one of them.
I’m fasting and praying for our nations leaders and the other decision makers in Washington and locally, and the leaders of the worlds nations, that the Lord will lead them and guide them in all truth, and that they will make sound decisions for the good of the people of their nations and lead with fairness and honesty as a soverign ruler, and that President Obama will lead with integrity & strength and that he will turn away from any advisor who will give him wicked advise and that God will guard him from the manipulators, underminders and haters of this nation. Especially those who have already brought shame on our nation and troubles to other world nations.
I’m praying and asking God to deliver my children from this world – from spiritual blindness and from the grip of Satans deceptions, and for them to witness for Christ, to die to themselves and to live for Him. I’m also praying for the Middle East and for the mercy of God upon the innocent. I know there will never be any peace in the Middle East, but that God will bring temporary calm for the elect sakes.
I’m fasting and praying for a deeper depth in God, for higher heights and to win a million souls for Christ through my ministry, by His strength and help, through His powerful word and His using me to evangelize the poor in spirit and the deceived lost souls through my ministries support – help & alms, through His divine protection and by fervent prayer.
I’m praying for the Lord to open my mind, my eyes,use my hands, my feet and my entire being to see and follow only Him and to not look back at the three evil devices that Satan uses to deceive and lure mankind to their doom (the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life). I’m praying for the Lord to Keep Me from the enemy and that He will crucify my flesh daily so that I walk right before Him and before the eyes of all who see me and that my life will be a living testimony for those of the world to see, and be an example for others to follow to Christ. “For Me To Live Is Christ, But To Die Is Gain.” Lord Let Me Die To Self and Help Me To Live For You!!!
Pray My Strengh In The Lord,
Evangelist/Missionary Pauline Orr
Helping Hands Ministries, “According To Our Lord”
P. O .Box 585027 Orlando, Florida 32858
(407) 967-3647
Nancy Andre said,
January 8, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Bridgette:
A forum is a fantastic idea! Although I know other forums are monitored and perhaps Susan doesn’t have time to do that. It does sound like she’s overwhelmed. I get tht way just reading the blogs. They are great! Apple slices with almond butter sounds so good and satisfying. Please keep posting your experiments. We all need variety.
Susan, you are truly a saint of God. Keep up the good work.
Nancy
Suzan Graham said,
January 8, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Hi again,
yesterday I post a question and couldn’t find it anywhere?? What can I replace soy milk and tofu with? since there are evidence that those items are not as good for our health.
talvin said,
January 9, 2009 at 10:33 am
When fasting and not eating meat. Would fish be counted as part of the no meat list even though fish is not meat.
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2009 at 1:02 pm
HI Talvin,
Thanks for your question about fish.
In Daniel 1 we read that the Prophet ate only vegetables (which would have included fruit) and drank only water. So that’s really why fish is not allowed on the Daniel Fast. I think of the DF eating plan as a vegan diet with more restrictions (drink only water and no precious foods, which cuts out bread and sweeteners).
I hope this helps.
Crystal Doherty said,
January 9, 2009 at 5:19 pm
Hi Susan! I have written to you before as I fasted for the first time in May 2008. I am participating in the national fast this time and have come across some “organic” soups and frozen dinners that appear to be cooked with a fast in mind. Have you heard of or used them? The brand is “Amy’s”….just curious!
Susan Gregory said,
January 10, 2009 at 9:14 am
Hi Crystal,
Thanks for your post. These are great products and most of them can be used on the Daniel Fast. You still need to read the ingredients as some of the soups include cane juice, which is sugar. But the bean and lentil soups are terrific. Thanks for sending the message. I think this is an especially good option for those in the workplace and school.
Be blessed on your fast this year!
Crystal Doherty said,
January 9, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Hi Susan! I have written to you before as I fasted for the first time in May 2008. I am participating in the national fast this time and have come across some “organic” soups and frozen dinners that appear to be cooked with a fast in mind. Have you heard of or used them? The brand is “Amy’s”….just curious!
jerry said,
January 10, 2009 at 6:59 am
can we have milk on the daniel fast
cece said,
January 10, 2009 at 9:52 am
I’m blessed to know that God’s people fellowship online too! In response to Cinde who responded on January 4th, I struggle with the same issue of carbohydrates, etc. I thank God I’m not alone with this struggle. If this helps, I listen to a song that goes: ” Lord Will Trust You, through the storms and the rain, through the heartache and pain, I’ll Trust You.” God is good, all the time. And all the time, God is good.
Susan Gregory said,
January 10, 2009 at 10:14 am
Hi Cece,
Thanks so much for your post! And you are so right, God is so good all the time.
Be blessed, dear one!
Susan Gregory said,
January 10, 2009 at 7:10 pm
Hi Adam,
Yes, most of the typical soy milks add sugar. But you can find unsweetened soy milk that is only made with 100% soy beans.
Shay said,
January 10, 2009 at 8:04 pm
We begin our 1st Daniel Fast tomorrow as a church (for 21 days) and are actually so excited where as in the past when fasting was mentioned we dreaded it. God has really given us a vision for this fast and we took your books, which we bought today, into the grocery store with our 4 kids and got all of our food for our meals. It was so much fun and my kids can not wait to get started. They were amazed at all of the foods God has provided for us that fit in the guidelines and are tasty too. I just wanted to let you know how your ministry has touched this family and how grateful we are to you for being obedient to do this for those of us who just did not have all of this information! Before I found your information I was totally overwhelmed about how I was going to feed my husband and I on one set of guidelines and then feed my 4 kids something they would actually eat! But the recipes are fantastic and similar to what they would have anyway, but actually healthier because of the “restrictions” of the fast. What an incredible opportunity for my children to get to experience this awesome walk with the Lord! I am going to recommend to all of our other church members tomorrow to get on here and buy all of your products. Thank you thank you and God bless!
Susan Gregory said,
January 10, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Dearest Shay,
Thank you so much for your lovely message. I am so glad I have been of help to you. My #1 goal is to serve God by serving His people. God is so good and I do believe He has anointed the Daniel Fast for this time for the Body of Christ. I am so happy to see the growth in the number of men, women and young people to embrace prayer and fasting.
You give a great example for getting kids on board with the Daniel Fast. I am so glad they are excited. It’s also a good experience for them to have as they see the number of additives in food!
God bless you, Shay. And thanks again for taking the time to write you message. You blessed my heart!
lilia said,
January 11, 2009 at 11:05 am
can agave nectar be used during the fasting or would it be consider a sweetener
Susan Gregory said,
January 11, 2009 at 6:02 pm
Hi Lilia,
Agave nectar is a natural product, but I do believe it is usually used as a sweetener. I’m not real familiar with the syrup, but my guess is that a lot of manufacturers of natural food use to sweeten their foods.
Be blessed on your fast!
Pamela Marx said,
January 11, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Dearest Susan,
I am so blessed to have found your site. I have been doing a 21 day fast every January for the last 4 years, but until this year never really did any research on it for myself. I was turned onto the fast through watching TBN and Jentezen Franklin’s church. I start out the first 7 days abstaining from all solid foods and drink only water and juices. Starting the last two weeks of the fast I THOUGHT I was following the Daniel fast. That is until I started doing my Google research and found your site. I bought and downloaded your books and was very excited to know I could steam or stir-fry my veggies. WHOO HOO! My initial take on the Daniel fast was he only ate raw fruits and veggies. This is awesome! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SITE, YOUR WISDOM AND YOUR HEART FOR OUR LORD AND SAVIOR.
2008 brought a lot of breaking for my husband and I and I am VERY glad to see it done. We are now seeing how the Lord prepared us while in the “desert” to receive the blessing coming to us now. My goal for this fast is to draw closer to Him than ever before and to gain wisdom and understanding and see more with His eyes who He has made me to be. I would ask for you to Please pray for my continued growth to have a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him. Thanks again for your site and ALL you share with us.
May He continue to bless and annoint your ministry with abundance beyond anything you could ever dream or imagine.
In His Favor,
Pamela
julie said,
January 11, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Hi we would like to know if we can drink 100 present orange juice
thanks for your help…………..
Chantal said,
January 12, 2009 at 1:50 am
Hi,
We are starting the 21 day fast today. My husband and I have taken the decision to do this fast.
I am breastfeeding at the moment. My baby is 10 months old. Should I carry on with the fast or how should I go ahead with this fast. I really want to fast but I don’t want to deprive my baby of any nourishment that she should get……
Thank you for such an informative sight.
Kind Regards
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2009 at 9:21 pm
Hi Chantal,
You can still fast, but just slightly modify it to provide enough for your baby. I suggest you add appropriate amounts of cheese, chicken and fish. You will see that you will still experience the fast even though you modify it.
I hope this helps!
sharon battle said,
January 12, 2009 at 9:44 am
I am a diabetic type 2. I started my fast today. I read a comment about diabetic may include chicken and fish in the diet for carbs reason. I would like to stick strictly with the daniel fast foods. VEG AND WATER. I don’t want to put my health in danger. I believe I am being led of God to go on this fast. Therefore i believe God will take care of me. please give me your wisdom concerning this. Thanks and God bless you
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2009 at 10:17 pm
Hi Sharon,
The Daniel Fast is more than vegetables and water (based on Daniel 1). In Daniel 10 we learn that the Prophet ate no meat and no precious food; and he drank no wine. So that means he likely ate more than just vegetables and water.
A fast should never bring harm to the body, plus I have received many reports from men and women with type 2 diabetes saying they have been cured because of the change in their eating habits.
The element you have added is that you believe you are being led of the Lord to eat only vegetables and drink only water. Wisdom says to be sure . . . and to also examine your heart and make sure you have a clear reason as to why He would lead you into such a fast with your health issues.
“There is a way that seems right to man, but it leads to destruction.” That’s why it is so important to KNOW this is the perfect will of God for you. The Daniel Fast is a very healthy fast and has had miraculous outcomes . . .
I encourage you to discuss this decision with your pastor (there is wisdom in counsel). This is the the kind of thing you need to be very sure of.
Be blessed and at peace.
Andrew said,
January 13, 2009 at 12:45 am
Didn’t know ur the Blog host but I think Susan is a miracle.Yeah! she is, infact God is going to open the windows of heaven upon u one of these days.God bless.So one of thess days am coming from Africa to pay u a visit.to see how u do your fast daily.God bless ya.Enjoy!
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2009 at 9:37 pm
Thank you Andrew!
Actually, I am praying now about going to South Africa and Zimbabwe right now. A group of us have been invited to present a leadership conference and a youth conference.
Drop me a line when you hit the U.S. soil! I would be blessed to meet you!
Katherine said,
January 13, 2009 at 11:28 am
I’m wondering about the READ THE LABELS comment. I don’t know ingredients well enough to know which are preservatives and which aren’t when I’m looking. Is there a reference you can point me to? Is any of this covered in the books (which I intend to download this week!)?
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Hi Katherine,
There are so many that it would be hard to make a list. I try to steer clear of all of them, especially if I don’t know what they are. Ascorbic acid is in a lot of foods. It is vitamin C and usually used as a preservative. I try to buy foods with “natural ascorbic acid” to be sure I stay away from processed vitamins.
I am sorry I can’t be more specific. I can only suggest that you just don’t buy food with chemicals of any kind added. You can find them, but you have to be very selective.
I hope this helps!
Cheryl said,
January 13, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Hi Susan,
My husband and I are going to go on the Daniel fast on Feb. 1. I’m so glad to have found your website and blog. I’ve downloaded the cookbooks and devotional. Thanks so much for your hard work and your heart (which comes through in your blog). In the past I thought you had to SUFFER in order for the fast to mean anything, but am coming to a greater understanding of what fasting means. I pray you and family will be blessed beyond measure! Please send any additional recipes to my email address. Thanks!
Brandi Greenwood said,
January 13, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Susan,
Hello, I started this fast and on my 6th day I had my breakthrough in the spirit so I continued on my fast most of the 7th day and then broke it that night in celebration of receiving my breakthrough. However, now I kind of wonder if I shouldn’t have done that I planned to do the entire 21 days but I was so excited that I got my breakthrough I wanted to celebrate so I ate dinner at a friends house. My husband also was trying to convince me I shouldn’t fast as I am nursing our 17 month old, however he is down to nursing 3 times a day so I felt like it would be fine to fast my pediatrician said I need the extra proten while fasting, what are your thoughts? I am kind of sad to the face i broke it now because I had like 3 awesome breakthroughs in the spirit and was speaking in a tongue I have never spoke in before, it was awesome, and i was crying and trevailing in the spirit and my spirit was interceding and God revealed all this junk to me from my life and it was like my spirit was getting rid of all of it for me. I guess I should just pray about it and see if I feel like the Lord leads me to start the fast again. Is this normal though for you to have a breakthrough and then the enemy comes against you like a wolf in sheeps clothing so that you will break your fast and not have the most amazing breakthrough of your life. Or could it be that was God really leading me to go ahead and break the fast?
Terri said,
January 13, 2009 at 10:58 pm
i am impressed! i used to fast quite regularly! (over 20 years ago) and the wisdom God has given you pertaining fasting is wonderful. i found your site by looking up daniel fast…wow what a blessing!
i am intersted in your cook books but cannot purchase them at this time. however i will use the recipes that you offer on your website. What a blessing you are!
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2009 at 6:29 pm
Hi Terri,
Thank you for your kind words. I am so glad my efforts are a blessing to you.
The Daniel Fast is a powerful experience and if we fully “get into it” we can realize powerful benefits. God is so good!
I hope the very best for you on your Daniel Fast!
Jada said,
January 14, 2009 at 4:50 am
Hi Susan. I want to thank you for being obedient and sharing this information. I admire your patience and tolerance. God has truly blessed you. I have read the information on the Daniel Fast and some of the comments. Some of the questions being asked are repetitive. I think people are getting really deep causing them confusion. From what I did read, I understand that we are to eat fruits and vegetables and drink water only; sugar free and chemical free, and anything that is naturally grown from the earth. I think that being literal is okay in this case. God says his word is easy. Thanks Susan and keep up the good work, God is pleased with you. Be blessed.
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2009 at 6:26 pm
Thank you Jada for your nice comments.
This blog and the Daniel Fast website are my blessing. I love serving God by serving His people. He is so good.
Be blessed, dear one!
Cindy Baxter said,
January 14, 2009 at 8:16 am
I just want to encourage everyone to purchase the 2009 Cookbook. We have found several wonderful dishes. Our favorite so far is the Homemade Veggie Burger. We eat them with a salad. The amazing thing is that my 23 year daughter & 19 year old son (neither are doing the fast with us) both really like them. They will become part of our regular diet once we have completed the fast. Thank you Susan for all the wonderful information and Bilbe based scriptures that you have provided to help me & Jim on our first Daniel’s fast. Cindy
Danielle said,
January 14, 2009 at 9:23 am
HI, our church started the fast on January 21st, so I’m 4 days into it. I noticed some of the guidelines difffer. We were told that we could eat eggs and honey and certain types of bread(whole grains such as ezekiel bread), but everything else is pretty much the same(mainly fresh fruits and vegetables). But we were also told that even if you give up just one or a few things that you enjoy..that is good as well especially if this is your first fasting experience. The main point is to silence your flesh so that you can hear and recieve from God, for example maybe if you really enjoy deserts…you could give that up or something like that. It is better to give up one thing and succeed than to try to do it all and fail…that may be discouraging.
I’m glad I came across this website, God bless.
Susan Gregory said,
January 14, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Hi Danielle,
Thanks for your post where you mentioned some other types of fasting . . . but it is not the Daniel Fast. The Daniel Fast is based on Daniel 1, Daniel 10 and Jewish fasting principles. It’s actually very specific. Only water to drink, fruits and vegetables for food and no precious foods, which eliminates sweeteners, breads and desserts. Leavening is not allowed in Jewish fasting (see Passover) and therefore that would leave out Ezekiel bread and any product that has yeast, baking powder or other leavening agents.
I just want to make it clear to those reading this blog that there are other fasts, but the Daniel Fast is very specific and it is not what you described in your post
Be blessed.
Karen Perry said,
January 15, 2009 at 9:30 am
I have noticed that ther are recipes that have canned beans on them. Every can of beans I have checked has ingredients in them that are not allowed on the fast. Where can I find those that are allowed? Any particular brands? Thanks in advance for any help you can give.
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Hi Karen,
It’s surprising, isn’t it! So many foods have sugar added to them. Then we wonder why obesity is at an all time high!
I find the organic brands don’t have sugar added. I am able to purchase them as store brand and they are often on sale. You can also find them in the natural foods section of the grocery store.
I hope this helps.
Lia said,
January 15, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Hello All,
This is the second attempt of posting a start date, so here it goes. I intend to start this fast tomorrow and continue for the full 21 days. Please pray with and for me, for I’ve struggled with completing fasts in the past. I seek an intimate relationship with God, and will convince my flesh to get out of the way. Thank you for the freedom to post!
Louie said,
January 15, 2009 at 1:05 pm
I have got to say that I ordered “The Daniel Fast for Body, Soul and Spirit” a couple of days ago and it is worth the $4.95 and so much more!!! The information in it answers just about every question posted here, and Susan’s writing is definitely Spirit led. You won’t be sorry you spent what is really a small amount of money!
The only thing I didn’t like was printing it out, but that’s inconsequential because you get so much out of it and can use it over and over again on future fasts – and I will be fasting in the future!
By the way, I bought “The Daniel Fast Cookbook” too – also a good buy!
Thanks, and God Bless you Susan – keep up His work!
Nikki M. said,
January 15, 2009 at 6:28 pm
okay. I just tried posting this, but my computer messed up, so I apologize if this gets posted twice. This is probably a silly question and very obvious, but are products containing wheat gluten allowed on the fast??
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Hi Nikki,
Yes, wheat gluten is fine
Be blessed!
Cynthia said,
January 15, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Is it to late to start the fast.because i really want to go on this fast that the lord will bless me and bring me closer to him.and also can you eat raisins.
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2009 at 6:57 pm
Hi Cynthia,
It’s never too late to start the Daniel Fast! People use the Daniel Fast all year long! And yes, raisins are allowed.
I encourage you to read more on this blog, and also on the Daniel Fast website.
Marjorie Cannon said,
January 16, 2009 at 10:03 am
You have mentioned Syonnaise. Where do I find this? I understand it is a form of “mayonnaise” which I really enjoy. Thank you for your help.
Krystal Ramirez said,
January 16, 2009 at 10:20 am
Hey Susan, I’ve tried reading almost all these blogs so you wouldn’t have to answer questions that have already been answered but i was wondering if apple cider vinegar is ok? i know that in one of your books it says vinegar is ok but im not quite sure what apple cider vinegar is made of. There is a all natural salad dressing that i would like to put on some of my pasta and one of the ingredients in it is apple cider vinegar. Thanks ahead of time
)
Trish said,
January 16, 2009 at 11:49 am
Hi Susan,
Thank you for the website. It is very informative! A true blessing!
Two questions: Are there specific brands of veggie burgers that are acceptable for the fast? I usually eat Morningstar Grillers, however some do have additives. I also checked out Boca burgers-same issue.
Is agave acceptable to use during the fast? I do not think so, since it is sweet, but my friend seems to think so. Please clear this up. She researched other Daniel Fast websites and they gave permission.
I am sure these questions have been addressed. I have reviewed your website. Sorry for the repetition.
Trish
Cathy said,
January 16, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Dear Susan – This will be my first 21-day Daniel Fast. I started out with a 3-day Daniel Fast last year and was amazed at what the Lord showed me even in that short amount of time. This year I’m going for it and am believing that God will give our family direction and wisdom for the visions/dreams He has planted in our hearts for this year. I have one nagging question, though, that I hope you can answer. I completely agree with what you say about this fast being about our hearts and consecrating our bodies to the Lord — after all, it’s the heart that God looks at. But my question is about things like grains, nuts, whole wheat pasta, oats, etc., — foods that “fill you up”. Isn’t fasting also about denying ourselves the feeling and pleasure of a full stomach? What I mean is, when I fast, that little grumbling inside reminds me of what I’m doing (fasting) and why I’m doing it (as unto the Lord, so that my body is cleansed, my mind is renewed, I can hear His voice better and so I can grow deeper in my relationship with Him). When I’m chowing down on all sorts of things that make me feel full and happy during my fast…well, doesn’t that sort of defeat the idea and purpose of fasting in some way? I’m a Spirit-filled Christian and not legalistic in any way, so please hear my heart here. I simply feel checked when I think of going into a fast with all the ways I can fill my stomach so that I don’t have to feel hungry while I’m fasting. Does that make sense? I hope you hear my true heart in this. I totally believe in doing the Daniel Fast and belive it is completely scriptural. Thank you so much for what you do — it blesses so many!
Karen Perry said,
January 17, 2009 at 7:10 am
This is a recipe that I tried last night and was told that it didn’t taste like we were fasting.
2 Green Peppers cut in 1/2 and sliced
Karen Perry said,
January 17, 2009 at 7:11 am
This is a recipe I tried and really liked for both during and after the fast.
2 Green Bell Peppers cut in 1/2 and sliced
Racheliz23 said,
January 17, 2009 at 6:57 pm
Hello Susan,
First off, thank you for obeying the Lord and listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit to write these books and sharing them with us. It is also nice that we can contact you and get a real response! Praise God.
I have two questions. I drink KAFFREE Roma a roasted grain beverage with hot water. It is caffeine free and the ingredients include roasted malt barley, roasted barley and roasted chicory. Is this permissable on the fast?
Second question is can we eat craisins. I think no because the two ingredients are cranberries and sugar. No sugar right?
Thanks much for all that you do for His glory! Amen
Pastor Roddy Horton said,
January 18, 2009 at 8:46 am
Am searching for info on the types of foods available to Daniel.
Judy said,
January 18, 2009 at 9:11 am
Susan,
With all the fruits, grains, nuts, and vegtables I am eating, I am not going hyngry, I am wondering is it still a “fast” when my hunger pangs are being satisfied(of course by allowable foods as mentioned)?
Judy
Joanne said,
January 18, 2009 at 6:39 pm
I am curious about allowing wine vinegar and butter on the fast (I saw these in some of your recipes), as they would seem to contradict the guidelines. I am also wondering about requiring filtered water, as I get the large bottles of water delivered to my home and I would like to continue using this service. Thank you very much. God bless.
Beverley said,
January 18, 2009 at 10:26 pm
I was wondering if it is acceptable to drink fresh fruit or vegetable juices on the Daniel fast.
Jim Lobdell said,
January 19, 2009 at 8:10 am
I notice that the “Daniel fast” is quite popular in Christian circles. I have a major reservation. In Daniel 1:12 Daniel makes the challenge to the eunuch: “Prove thy servants, I beseech the, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.” According to Webster’s Dictionary, “pulse” is limited to “the edible seeds of peas, beans, lentils, and similar plants having pods”. That strictly limits the varieties of foods Daniel and his friends ate. Today, the only limitations seem to be meat, coffee and candy. The 21st century Daniel fast includes every fruit and vegetable known to man. Another point, the original Daniel fast was not for the purpse of drawing closer to God or to receive direction from God. The only purpose was to show forth God’s miraculous provision for the health of the young men eating a less than nutritious diet. The Daniel Fast has been blown totally out of context and purpose and I blelive is misguiding numbers of sincere Christians.
Marilyn said,
January 19, 2009 at 10:44 am
Hi Susan,
Sorry to use this comment area to get in touch with you, but I have emailed the other addresses and haven’t heard back so not sure I sent it to the right email. I ordered all 3 of the books, but was not able to print out the newest cookbook. The first cookbook and the journal printed then it blocked us out and we could not get back in to copy the last cookbook. Can you tell me how to go about getting that please. Sorry for the trouble.
Thank you, Marilyn
Jim Lobdell said,
January 19, 2009 at 6:55 pm
I posted comments this am ( 1/19) regarding the scriptural basis of the 21st century Daniel Fast but apparently you folks do not take kindly to those types of questions as it was not posted.
tim said,
January 20, 2009 at 5:40 am
can you have have organic soy milk (unsweet)
Molly said,
January 22, 2009 at 12:59 am
Just want to thank you for this site. I have only been on the diet for a few days, and honestly, all I can think about is how good a burger and soda sound!
But honestly having those feelings, remind me how human I am and how much more I need God! This is slightly easier for me then my husband, I have a dairy and soy allergy so I generally do organic. But it’s not as easy as it seems. It definitely draws you closer to God!
T said,
January 22, 2009 at 2:09 pm
Hello Susan
Thank you for the pics by each post. Two more days to go. This years fast has gone by faster than last year.
Last year was my first 21 day DF and this year it could tell a lot of difference and how I was more mentally prepared.
Fasting is very difficult and a sacrifice for me because I like very few vegatables.
God is so good! Thank you for all you do for us on this blog.
Louie Gorena said,
January 24, 2009 at 10:41 pm
Susan,
You’ve been a terrific resource during this, my first, fast! I have been so blessed by this fast, that I’m already planning my next fast – I want to make it coincide with breaking my fast on Easter Sunday!! What a terrific way to celebrate our Lord and Savior’s victory over the grave!! And I’ll be bringing some friends along on this fast, and I’ll be directing them to visit you here too!! Keep up the good work, and my God’s blessings continue in your life!!
Louie
elizabeth edwards said,
January 24, 2009 at 11:24 pm
I would love to hear more about the cook book. I would also love to purchase one when they come out.
Susan Gregory said,
January 27, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Hello Elizabeth,
All the Daniel Fast material is delivered over the Internet as reports and eBooks. You can find them at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com
Thanks for your question!
Mary Ortega said,
January 26, 2009 at 5:22 pm
i feel unclean my body no food but i know God heal my body fast. how fasting thing vegetable and fruit and water 10 days. may be i try fasting 10 days
Susan Gregory said,
January 27, 2009 at 1:41 pm
God bless you Mary Ortega,
God longs to come closer to us . . . and please know that Christ’s ability to redeem us is much more powerful than our ability to sin. So no matter what we have done, we can come to Christ and seek forgiveness and renewal through Him.
Yes, a 10-day Daniel Fast is a very good experience and I encourage you to enter this powerful discipline of prayer and fasting.
Be blessed!
Curt said,
January 30, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Susan,
I’m concluding my first ever 21-day Daniel Fast today. Thanks for the great resource you provided with this site and cookbooks. It might it go by very easily.
My faves were:
Black beans w/rice
Veg Chilli
Veg Soup
Whole Grain Pasta
Salad w/Sugarless Dressing
I’m already looking forward to next year’s fast and possibly doing some small ones later in the year.
Summer said,
January 31, 2009 at 7:00 am
Hi!
I was just wondering if you were aloud to drink Silk (Soy milk) on the Daniel Fast?
Lynn said,
February 2, 2009 at 12:44 pm
Susan
The cookbooks are very helpful! The salsa is great and so was the brown rice with fruit. Never thought rice would go with fruit!
Is Oat Bran in the baking or cereal section? I’ve looked both places, but no luck yet.
Susan Gregory said,
February 6, 2009 at 7:37 pm
Hi Lynn,
Thanks for your nice comments. I find oat bran in the natural food section at my grocery store.
Be blessed on your fast.
Sharon said,
February 5, 2009 at 9:49 pm
Hi: I did the 21 day fast with my church and it ended 2/1. I so absolutely loved it that I am continuing eating the same way. It is the most incredible way of eating!! No more indigestion or heartburn! I am amazed, absolutely amazed, at how good I feel!
)
For breakfast I have a smoothie made with Organic Soy Milk (plain, not the vanilla kind) and 2 or 3 different fruits.
For lunch I have soup (made with some beans in it) or a really big bowl of vegetable salad (with avocado and/or fruit and a little olive oil and NO dressing) or baked potato (or maybe all of them
For dinner I have the same thing.
For snack I love to have a small bowl of pecans or cashews and dates.
It’s so great to be able to eat a baked potato or two or three and not feel guilty. And avocado!! A whole one at one time!! Unheard of in any other diet!! I do not have that constant gnawing hunger I used to have. I can sit next to a box of chocolates and have no problem resisting them. I don’t think about food all the time. I LOVE IT!!
Last night I put some raw oatmeal in a bowl with some soy milk, covered it and let it soak all night in the fridge. This morning I put it in the microwave for 2 minutes ( I know, I know, Daniel didn’t have a microwave), added a teaspoon of honey & it was scrumptious.
I’m not keeping track yet, but my weight loss is pretty good. I tried not to even think about it during the fast so it was a great side-effect.
My concern is getting the proper nutrition over the long haul. I know I’ll probably add back some of the old foods – chicken, fish, whole grain breads but for now I don’t even want to think of them.
Should I seek out a nutritionist to be sure I’m getting the proper nutrition?
Susan Gregory said,
February 6, 2009 at 6:06 pm
HI Sharon,
Thanks for the post. I do think it would be good to check in with a reputable nutritionist to be sure your eating plan is suitable. With that said, the Daniel Fast eating plan is very healthy when approached in a balanced way.
I hope the very best for you as you work toward health and a rich spiritual life!
Sharon said,
February 5, 2009 at 10:50 pm
In comment to Jim’s posts 513 & 515:
You said: “The Daniel Fast has been blown totally out of context and purpose and I blelive is misguiding numbers of sincere Christians.”
So, you think the fast of today is imperfect by biblical standards. For people of today to undertake the Daniel Fast is a spiritual matter between them & God. To require a strict adherence to the exact way Daniel ate is legalistic, to say the least. With today’s transportation and refrigeration, we enjoy a much wider variety of food than was available to Daniel. It is God’s plan that we eat the food he has given us so surely, giving up all the junk does not offend Him. If he was not pleased would people be healed of diseases by doing the “Daniel Fast”?
Don’t put God in a box. He will deal with each person who commits to him according to their needs as He sees fit. Do you think your “major reservation” matters to God? It might however, be a hindrance to a tender Christian and you should seek God’s counsel about it. It seems like most everyone on this site is here of like mind seeking and offering help and encouraging their brothers & sisters in Christ.
You said: “Another point, the original Daniel fast was not for the purpse of drawing closer to God or to receive direction from God.” How do you know that? That seems to be all about what Daniel did. As Christians, everything we do should be to draw closer to Him and receive His direction.
You said: “The only purpose was to show forth God’s miraculous provision for the health of the young men eating a less than nutritious diet.”
How do you know that? Their diet was very nutritious. Would eating the meats, sweets, other rich food and drinking the king’s wine have been more nutritious? I think not. There was no nutritional deprivation at all. That is a misconception based on what foods are available for us in the marketplace today. And most of them bad for us.
So, that said, why don’t you commit to the Daniel Fast and sincerely seek God’s will and see what happens?
Jackie said,
February 7, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Hi Everyone,
I have been on the Daniel Fast for one week now and absolutely love it. I feel so much better eating this way. As someone else mentioned, the weight I am losing is a great side-effect, but more importantly I feel I am starting to press more and more into hearing what my Heavenly Father has to say. This is my first time for the fast, but I know it won’t be the last.
Deb said,
February 17, 2009 at 11:49 am
Hello, all. I found the Daniel Fast when I went searching for how fasting would impact type II diabetes. I have been reading/studying the book With Christ in the School of Prayer. I finished chapter 13, Prayer and Fasting last night. This book as had a significant impact on my spiritual life. I wanted to try fasting, but know nothing about it. I have a doctor’s appointment today and will ask him about this partial fast. I know God led me to this website.
thank you
sonja vanhook said,
February 19, 2009 at 10:13 am
Hi Susan Love your site. I ordered the three books jan.3 2009 but have yet to recieve them. Can you check this out for me? Thanks and keep up the great work God Bless
Liz said,
February 19, 2009 at 3:39 pm
Ive been on the fast for 11 days and it has been great but then I got sick. I cant imagine why with all the vegetables and fruit I have been eating. I do work with kids and a lot of other teachers are out and as much as I tried to fight it, it got the best of me. Keep me in prayer please. I am a Reading Tutor at a private Catholic school and I am an hourly employee. When I don’t work I don’t get paid. My son was sick, my grand-daughter, teachers I work with and kids that I tutor. I did pretty well and then bang it got me. I have missed 2 days. Thanks and praise be to God. I am congested in my chest, coughing, headache and fatigue. I also have no health insurance.
Susan Gregory said,
February 24, 2009 at 11:17 am
Be blessed, dear servant of Christ.
I speak health and healing in Jesus’ name!
Harold & Kate Jones said,
February 23, 2009 at 2:00 pm
This will be our first Daniel Fast. We will be starting with our church on March 1, 2009 in Dayton, Oh. We believe that we will grow spiritually together and also get the extra plus by loosing weight. We look forward to doing this as a group and as a couple. We will continue to read the blogs and hear the comments from others who will also give us support. Thank you and God bless.
Marla said,
February 23, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Hi,
I just found this site from an online search. Our church does the Daniel Fast each year for Lent, so we do the 40 days instead of the 21 days. This year, my boyfriend and children have decided to do it with me. It’s wonderful to have the support. We are so blessed. I can’t wait to go shopping and get into the cookbooks. My kids, 21 and 13, love to cook with me. They are excited. God bless you and all who believe in Him. Stay strong!
Susan Gregory said,
February 24, 2009 at 10:52 am
Be blessed on your fast, Marla!
Annette Donovan said,
February 24, 2009 at 9:30 am
Can you use Coconut milk? the ingredients are coconut milk, water, Potassium metabisulfite added as a preservative. This is my first time to try the Daniel Diet.
Susan Gregory said,
February 24, 2009 at 10:31 am
Hi Annette,
Yes, you can use coconut milk but it must be chemical-free and sugar-free. You should be able to find what you need at a health food store.
Have a successful fast!
Deb said,
February 24, 2009 at 11:21 am
I have a question about soy milk. Is there a particular brand that works? I live in south central Nebraska where organic, vegan and vegetarian food choices are very limited. Every carton of soy milk I picked up had at least one ingredient as a preservative. I would really like to eat the organic cereal I found, but don’t want to eat it with water. I mixed it with natural peanut butter yesterday and spread it on a popcorn cake.
This is my second day. The first one was kinda tough, but today is a bit better.
I did make up a recipe I really liked last night with whole grain spaghetti and veggies.
Susan Gregory said,
February 24, 2009 at 11:25 am
Hi Deb,
You might need to find a health food store, although unsweetened soy milk is now widely available. It is made with 100% soy beans. I mix my cereal with applesauce sometimes, but I usually use either rice milk or unsweetened soy milk.
God bless you on your fast!
Hannah Woodley said,
February 25, 2009 at 3:48 am
Can you salted peanuts during a Daniel fast?!?
Susan Gregory said,
February 25, 2009 at 10:59 am
Hi Hannah,
Yes, all nuts and seeds are allowed on the Daniel Fast. In fact one of my favorite snacks is pistachios as they take time to eat and are full of flavor. You will want to be sure to read the label if you buy packed nuts to make sure the manufacturer hasn’t added chemicals or sweeteners to the ingredients.
Be blessed on your fast.
cynthia said,
February 26, 2009 at 6:30 am
Hi Susan,
First I want to say thanks for an amazing website.I have always wanted to fast but did not know the guidelines.
Today is my 2nd day on the Daniel fast.I am a serious
coffeeholic and a sweetaholic.I am having serious headaches and I feel deflated.Is there anything I can take
for my headaches within guidelines of the Daniel fast.Is this normal side affects ? I am praying for God to strengthen me during this fast because I am not giving in to my desires
in the name of Jesus.Also is there limitation to the amount you consume? Is there certain foods I can eat for energy?Thank You Susan for your support.God
Bless you in Jesus name.
Marla said,
February 26, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Thanks, Susan, for the new recipes. They sound yummy.
Christine said,
February 28, 2009 at 10:34 am
Hi Susan,
I am doing the Daniel Fast for a week starting tomorrow (only for a week because it is my first fast). My husband, who has fasted before, is doing it for the full 3 weeks, and he is in the Army Reserves. He has a drill weekend after the 2 week point of the fast during which he has to take a physical fitness test which mostly involves running. He’s failed it the last 2 times because he barely missed the time limit. He’s really needing to pass it this time (he’s not overweight by very much at all, so I don’t think that’s the problem), and I’m especially concerned about it because he’ll be on the fast. He’s already saying he doesn’t know what he’ll eat during that weekend (it’s 3 hours away from our home, and the Army feeds them all weekend, generally catered or fast food). All we’ve been able to think of is to pack a lot of fruit or something like that, maybe some peanut butter for protein. But I don’t know if it will be enough to keep him going throughout the weekend and the fitness test. Do you have any suggestions about what he could take that would be “packable” for this upcoming weekend? Thanks, we both appreciate it!
TINA said,
March 8, 2009 at 6:28 pm
THANKS FOR THE WEBSITE! IT HAS BEEN SO HELPFUL. IM FASTING FOR THE FIRST TIME ALONG WITH MY BEST FRIEND AND HER HUSBAND. WE ARE DOING THE DANIEL FAST AND WE ARE STARTING WITH 7 DAYS. I KNOW THE LORD WILL GIVE US THE STRENGTH AND KNOWLEDGE TO DO THIS. TODAY WAS OUR 1ST DAY AND WE WENT SHOPPING TODAY FOR THE 7 DAYS. WHAT A MISTAKE!, NEVER WAIT TILL THE 1ST DAY OF THE FAST TO REALIZE THAT LABEL INFO IS VERY CONFUSING. SO I CAME HOME ON GOT ON THE WEB AND FOUND YOU, THANK GOD! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR CARING ENOUGH TO DO THIS. MY BIGGEST HURDLE WILL BE MY DR.PEPPER, I DRINK ALOT DAILY AND IM ALREADY GETTING A HEADACHE. WE PLAN ON PURCHASING YOUR COOKBOOK BECAUSE WE ARE “EATERS” AND WE NEED VARITY. AGAIN THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS!!
Naomi said,
March 11, 2009 at 8:11 am
good Morning,
I have been led to do the Daniel fast. However when studying the scriptures I am interpreting that no meats are allowed. However are animal products such as eggs produced by chickenss, milk from cows,yogurt ect allowed. Please respond asap becaue this fast has began for me today and I would hate to do anything outside of the word. Thank You! Bless You!
Susan Gregory said,
March 18, 2009 at 10:25 am
Hi Naomi,
Only plant-based foods are allowed on the Daniel Fast, which comed from Daniel 1 where we learn that the prophet and his companions ate only vegetables (which would have included fruit) and drank only water.
I hope the best for your as you enter into this powerful spiritual discipline.
Felicia Mitchell said,
March 11, 2009 at 11:35 am
I had a miracle to occur as a result of my obedience when my pastor called for a Daniel Fast. Background: I had fasted before, and I had abstained from meat before, but I had never done veggies and water alone. I noticed something was different immediately during the fast that was profound. in the past ss a vegitarian, I had always included bread and pasta in my diet. Through the fast I discovered my intolerance to gluten. I suddenly has no brain fog, no depression, my hair grew, colors were vibrant, my anxiety level/sense of urgency/ impulsivity decreased, my tummie flatened (gluten sensitive folks have a cronically irritated intestinal condition). Life literally started for me in a whole new light at 55. To God be The Glory!!!!!
cynthia said,
March 18, 2009 at 8:54 am
Susan,
I finished my 21 day Daniel Fast. I feel great. I am apprehensive about getting off. I think I will incorporate some seafood and my coffee but try to leave the sweets
alone.Thank You for your daily encouraging devotions.God thank You for seeing me through this incredible time of my life.Jesus is the answer to whatever is the problem………
Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah
haley clark said,
March 23, 2009 at 5:54 am
can you have butter?
Susan Gregory said,
March 24, 2009 at 5:28 pm
Hi Haley,
No, butter is not allowed on the Daniel Fast. The Fast is a plant-based diet so all animal products are not included. However, you can use olive oil or other quality oils, which are so much better for you!
I hope this helps!
Louie Gorena said,
March 24, 2009 at 7:49 am
Susan,
We have a group of almost 20 people who began a 21-day fast this past Sunday! They’ve been inspired by the words on your blog as well as on Jentezen Franklin’s site. Please keep us in prayer!! As you know, the first days are the most difficult, but as we know, we can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens us!!
Blessings to you!
Louie
Anka said,
March 24, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Hello Susan!
My fiancee and I just finished 21 days of fasting and we just wanted to thank you for all your awesome work, for the book, for all the recipes which are just amazing! We wanted to do it for a long while and we would always delay it because I thought it’s gonna be impossible for me to keep it. But with God’s help, it was way easier than I have imagined it would be. We feel so much better and now I don’t wanna go back to my crazy eating habits I used to have. Also, these 21 days taught me how to enjoy being in the kitchen and I’ve got to tell you: I’ve never cooked in my entire life as much as I cooked those last days, but it was in a different light. I actually enjoyed it. I encourage all the people out there that are still afraid to start this fast, to do it and to let God provide the strength that is required and He will!
Susan Gregory said,
March 24, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Dearest Anka,
Thank you so much for your kind words. I am so happy you and your fiancee had a successful Daniel Fast. It’s such an awesome experience! God knows how to care for His people! I also am glad you’ve learned about taking better care of your body – the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Thanks for the encouragement to others who may be on the fence about starting the Daniel Fast. You’ve surely discovered its power and benefits!
Lydia said,
March 25, 2009 at 8:58 pm
Hi Susan,
I’m doing my third Daniel Fast right now, in part to prepare for a mission trip to Mozambique. I leave next Tuesday and will be there for 2 weeks, so it sounds like we’ll be in Africa at the same time! I’ll be working with Africa 180. They do some work over the border, as well, and are trying to stage things so that when the government changes they can already have a foundation built. I’ll be thinking of Zimbabwe and remembering this needy country and your efforts there in prayer, especially while I am so close by.
Thank you for blessing the web with your information and wisdom – it has been SO helpful.
Blessings (more than you can think or even imagine!)
Lydia
Susan Gregory said,
March 28, 2009 at 7:26 am
Dearest Lydia,
I too will think of you when I am in Southern Africa. Both Mozambique and Zimbabwe have critical problems. But our God reigns . . . and as the light of Christ is shed in the darkness His power can be unleashed!
AFRICA IN APRIL: Our 9-member team leaves the weekend of April 4th and we will be gone about three weeks. We are all teaching at conferences and will present to pastors, women and teens.
Thanks for your kind comments about the blog and the website. I am blessed by this ministry!
Charlene said,
March 26, 2009 at 10:11 am
Hi Susan,
May God to continue to bless you. He is going to bless you real good
I am praying about starting this fast next week and have been reading thru your blogs and they have been very helpful. I have been reading thru labels at the grocery store. My question is about Wheat Gluten? Or Gluten period should i stay away from this ingredient?
Thanks
Susan Gregory said,
March 28, 2009 at 7:31 am
Hi Charlene,
Wheat gluten if fine on the Daniel Fast if you don’t have a problem with it. Many people are allergic to gluten and so there are “gluten-free” products. But if your body is fine with it, then you are okay.
I hope the very best for you on your fast. It’s great that you are taking this time to prepare. I also encourage you to start tapering off caffeine and sugar now . . . and start drinking at least 1/2 gallon of filtered water each day. Also, consider the purpose of your fast and start collecting the study and devotional materials you will use during this powerful time of consecration unto our Amazing Lord.
Jonathan said,
March 30, 2009 at 10:14 am
Would carob be acceptable on the Daniel Fast? I had someone give me some Carob sweetened with Barley Malt. Was wondering what the opinion on this would be.
Susan Gregory said,
March 31, 2009 at 6:12 am
Hi Jonathan,
Carob, as you described, is a type of “candy” and therefore would not be appropriate on the Daniel Fast. Even though it’s a natural “substitute” it is still used for that purpose. The same goes for natural herb sweeteners. Even though they are all natural, they should not be used during the Daniel Fast.
By the way, these are great alternatives for healthy eating when not fasting and I do encourage people to use these products then!
Jeni said,
March 31, 2009 at 12:14 pm
Hi Susan,
I ordered the book and 2009 cookbook today. My husband and I are very excited to begin this fast, as we are expecting two very important breakthroughs in our lives. We have been married for four years and out of that time, we have been trying to conceive for 3 years, and trying to sell our home for two years. We are dedicated and God has shown us through many avenues that “our seed will multiply.” Upon God’s order, we walked away from our spacious home and moved 10 hours away, into a 587 square-foot studio apt, just because God said so. Boy, has He blessed us! We feel His hands over us, guiding us, but we have reached a point that we need to do more for Him by giving up our fleshly desires. So, here we are, ready to fast!
Thank you for your leadership through this endeavor. Also, I’m not sure if I missed the link to download the 21 day devotional that goes along with the purchase? If so, could you please send me the link?
Many Blessings,
Jeni
Susan Gregory said,
April 28, 2009 at 8:17 am
Hi Jeni,
I know you are probably finished with your fast now, but I did want to tell you thanks for adding your comment and to send my very best hope for you and your husband as you continue to grow in the love and knowledge of our amazing Father.
Be blessed and thanks for your support!
Latrice said,
April 2, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Please pray for me as I do this fast already we have been attack in my family with a death but I will stay strong anyone. If anyone have a ideas on what kind of saladressing to get for my salads for the store
Dr Inetta J Cooper said,
April 3, 2009 at 1:38 pm
We are in the last week of the forty day fast, and We are expecting MIRACLES
ruben said,
April 4, 2009 at 11:24 pm
If the King’s food had been vegetables and water, would today’s Daniel Fast consist of meat and dairy products? I just assumed that the reason Daniel wanted to reject the King’s food was just because he already knew it was sacrificed to false gods and idols. I never thought it had anything to do with the food itself. Just wondering.
Susan Gregory said,
May 2, 2009 at 11:40 am
Hi Ruben,
The Daniel Fast is based on two of the prophets fasting experiences as found in Daniel 1 and in Daniel 12. You are correct that he didn’t want to defile his body by eating foods offered to false idols and so turned down the king’s foods in Daniel 1. However, in Daniel 12 it was restricting foods for a spiritual purpose.
The Daniel Fast is a partial fast and serves as a method for men, women and youth to enter into the powerful discipline prayer and fasting. The guidelines are developed from the above mentioned passages and from typical Jewish fasting principles. But fasting has less to do with the foods consumed and more to do with the attitude and condition of the heart of the individual as they seek God. Using guidelines is a good way to “confront the flesh” and move into a discipline of self-control and consecration.
With all that said, and after studying and writing about the Daniel Fast steadily for almost two years, I truly believe the Lord has anointed today’s Daniel Fast. I receive hundreds of emails from individuals who have experienced answers to prayers, healings and a richer relationship with the Lord. Many people have improved health and the Daniel Fast serves as a catalyst for them caring for the “temple” in a much better way.
I hope this helps . . .
Adrienne said,
April 15, 2009 at 2:03 pm
I was just wondering if your books are available as plain ol’ books. I’d rather not have ebooks on my laptop yet, I don’t trust it 100% not to flip out and crash.
Thanks!
Susan Gregory said,
May 2, 2009 at 11:01 am
Hi Adrienne,
The Daniel Fast books I write are only available as eBooks at this time. The hardcopy will be out early next year, but the publishing world works at a much slower pace than the demand for information. So for now, they are only available as eBooks.
By the way, concerns to “crash your laptop” are not needed. The files are small and sent in the PDF format, which is the industry standard.
I hope this helps.
Cyndi said,
April 25, 2009 at 5:25 am
Susan,
You rock!!! May God’s blessing flow like a river through your life for your devotion to this ministry. I know you answer hundreds of questions, but there are thousands who benefit. Reminds me of the fishes and loaves story
Thanks for all you do here!
Susan Gregory said,
May 2, 2009 at 9:22 am
Dearest Cyndi,
Thank you so much for your sweet message. God has blessed me in more ways than I can count. He gave me this ministry in December 2007 and I am so honored and blessed to be able to serve Him by serving His children. I try to treat each question as if it’s the first time it’s ever been asked (which it is for the person asking
). My hope is that everyone who uses this blog, the web site at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com and the eBooks experiences a very successful fasting experience. Our God is so good and He wants us to be dependent on Him and to live in His presence. Prayer and fasting helps us to do so.
Be blessed and again thank you for your kind words.
mary said,
May 5, 2009 at 11:10 am
What about popcorn and how much
Susan Gregory said,
May 12, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Hi Mary,
Popcorn is a good option for a snack. I use an air-popper but you can also pop it with a little vegetable oil on top of the stove. Most of the microstove brands have chemicals or butter (both are not allowed on the Daniel Fast), so making the popcorn yourself is the best way to go.
I hope the best for you on your fast.
Barbara C said,
May 6, 2009 at 7:47 am
Susan you are the best!!! I downloded the cookbook & the Body, Soul & Spirit I started the fast yesterday & I am going for 21 days. The scriptures & prepartation really helped and the journal is a great tool.
Question…… I saw someplace that wheat flatbread is allowed. What do you say about that.
Thanks for being a blessing.
Susan Gregory said,
May 12, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Hi Barbara,
Yes, whole wheat flat bread is allowed on the Daniel Fast when the ingredients are whole wheaf flour, salt, water and a little oil. There is a recipe in the Daniel Fast Cookbook – Version II.
Also, thanks for the nice comments! I am blessed to be able to connect with so many brothers and sisters in Christ.
ALAS said,
May 7, 2009 at 7:18 pm
I am a Wounded Warrior of Operation Iraqi Freedom and am presently on numerous medications. Most of them are required with food/milk; and my personal ability to digest them has been with 1/4th glass of 2% milk every morning with the largest dosages of medications. I am fine throughout the day with taking them only with water. However, I feel spiritually challenged to follow the fast to the exacts and am encouraging other believers to do the same. But, somehow feel like a hypocrite. Help!
Susan Gregory said,
May 10, 2009 at 6:29 am
Good morning Alas,
God bless you for your service and now for your great desire to seek God and His reign in your life.
Please follow your doctor’s orders about taking the medications with milk without any regret or guilt. The Daniel Fast is much more about “fasting” that it is about the specific foods consumed. A fast should never be harmful to the body. And there are many individuals with special need diets that must alter the fast to meet their needs (pregnant and nursing mothers, those with diabetes or cancer, athletes, etc.).
I encourage you to have a meeting with the Holy Spirit. Ask Him what you are to do. I expect that He will tell you to follow your doctor’s orders, taking your medication with enough milk to meet that need, and then follow the fast in the other ways.
I hope this helps.
R Steinbron said,
May 12, 2009 at 12:22 am
does it not just say vegetables and water in the bible for the Daniel fast I am confused as to where the other stuff comes from.
Susan Gregory said,
May 12, 2009 at 10:11 am
Good morning,
The Daniel Fast is based on the fasting experiences of the prophet as recorded in Daniel 1 and Daniel 10, along with typical Jewish fasting principles. In Daniel 1 we learn the prophet didn’t eat the King’s foods previously dedicated to the Babylonian false gods (wine and meat). So he ate only vegetables (which would have included fruit) and drank only water. In Daniel 10, when the prophet was in mourning, he ate no meat, no precious foods, and drank no wine.
From these few scriptures, the Daniel Fast has been developed as a plant-based partial fast with additional restrictions (such as sweeteners and leavened products).
I hope this helps.
Sharon Franklin said,
May 12, 2009 at 8:29 pm
Hi Susan,
I truly praise God for your ministry. I knew nothing about the Daniel fast until last week when a brother in Christ mention it to me. He told me how his Pastor instruction his congregation on the Daniel fast. So I ask if I could call the office to get the information about it. I called this pass Monday, May 11, 2009 and the secretary happily emailed it to me but I never rec’d it. When I called back she said she would email it again but again, I never rec’d it. Then I said, “okay Lord, I understand this is not the way for me to go. What would you have me to do?” The Holy Spirit spoke to my heart to go online via Google. And there you were! Full of information. I got so excited, I immediately purchased the ebook and cookbook I…I couldn’t put the book down. So inspirational.
I know that God is doing a work in my life right now and the Daniel Fast is part of it. I’m very sure about that. A few months ago, the Lord had place “fasting and praying” in my spirit. We don’t do enough of it. I’m the minister of music at my church and the Lord instructed me to tell the music ministry to go on a 3-day fast. No meat of any kind, no dairy products and no sweets. The fast was April 24, 25, and ended 12 midnitght on the 26th.
Susan, only approx. 10 percent participated but it didn’t discourage me. God had already prepared me for it. But that fast changed my life. In ways that I’m still to this day is still discovering. And I know without a doubt He is preparing me for the Daniel fast for 21 days. My testimony goes on but I dare not hold you too long. I have many health issues but I’m confident that God has me covered. I just needed to stop and let you know how much I appreciate your ministry and all of the hard work you’ve done and are still doing for the Body of Christ. The receipts, some of them, I can’t wait to try. And I’m a very picky eater. I bought some soy milk today and made a smoothie. It was great! I was using cow milk. Never thought I’d ever buy soy milk in this life time. God is sooooo good!!! Please keep me in your prayers as I will difinitely do the same for you. I’m not sure as to when I will begin. But I know it will be real soon. I’m just waiting on God. In the meantime, He’s preparing me for this up-coming VICTORY!!!! Much love to you and your family.
Blessings,
Sharon Franklin
Susan Gregory said,
May 15, 2009 at 7:36 am
Dearest Sharon,
Thank you so much for taking the time to tell me your story and how the Daniel Fast has been so instrumental in your life. Our God is so good and I truly believe He created the discipline of fasting to help His people draw closer to Him.
I can tell by your letter that you are a woman after the things of God . . . and woman who truly does seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. The Word says He rewards those who diligently seek Him . . . so you will truly be rewarded. He is so good.
Be blessed dear one. You are a gift to the body of Christ.
Mpho Nojiwa said,
May 12, 2009 at 10:24 pm
Good Morning
I have something that’s bothering me and I need some clarification. In Daniel 10:3 it says ” I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine….” , so why do we prepare meals that taste great? Is this not inconsistent with the manner Daniel fasted
fay said,
May 13, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Can you eat pretezels on a daniel diet?
Susan Gregory said,
May 15, 2009 at 7:42 am
Good morning Fay,
No, I have yet to find a brand of pretzels that don’t include yeast and sweeteners, both of which are not allowed on the Daniel Fast. An alternative would be to make your own corn chips or crackers that include only acceptable ingredients. There are recipes for both in The Daniel Fast Cookbook – Version II.
I hope this helps and I hope the very best for you toward a successful Daniel Fast.
AFFRIKKA said,
May 14, 2009 at 8:53 am
HI! THIS IS MY 7TH DAY ON THE DANIEL’S FAST AND I CAN TRULY SAY THAT I AM CLOSER TO GOD. I AM LEARNING TO LISTEN MORE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT. ONE QUESTION I HAVE FOR YOU, IS IT A SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR VEGGIES AND FRUITS OR DO I JUST EAT AS A MUCH AS I LIKE DURING MEAL TIME?
Susan Gregory said,
May 15, 2009 at 7:48 am
Good morning!
I am so glad you are experiencing a successful Daniel Fast. Praise God as you draw closer to Him using this spiritual discipline.
The Daniel Fast is a partial fast, meaning that some foods are allowed and others are not. However, there is no definite amount of food in the guidelines. With that, we need to keep in mind that this is a fast. So appropriate portions would be a good thing include when you eat. One thing I love about the Daniel Fast is that it affords us a great opportunity to create good habits to improve our health. So I do encourage you and others to use this time to become better for our Most High God. And that improvement can touch all of us: our body, soul and spirit!
Be blessed and thanks for your question!
Jean Leonard said,
May 15, 2009 at 12:29 pm
I am so drawn to your books on the Daniel Fast – especially since Daniel is my favorite character in the Old Testament. His gentleness, wisdom, and boldness are so precious to me. So much of Daniel’s past is not related in the Book of Daniel, because Daniel is someone that simply does not talk about himself – or his problems. I have spent several months studying and researching the historical aspects of the Book of Daniel and I felt compelled to share just of few of them with you.
As was a common Babylonian warfare tactic, outsiders serving as court officials in the king’s court would be castrated to ensure their loyalty and total submission to the king. We can presume that Daniel suffered the indignity of forced eunuchism since he serves as an official in the king’s court and he omits pertinent Jewish information regarding his own lineage since this violation upon his own body cut his own family lineage short. Yet, even though he has been so ashamedly defiled and suffers such humiliation he does not abandon the God he serves – even refusing to eat the rich food offered at the king’s table because he would defile his body by doing so. Daniel has so much to teach us of his devotion to God using little or no words!
We know that he is among the first exiles of nobility and influential families that are captured by Nebuchadnezzar and marched to Babylon. He doesn’t mention this grueling march. This march was approximately 500 miles “as the crow flies” on a map of ancient Babylon. Yet the distance was much greater since they would not have marched across the large expanse of desert straight into Babylon, but walked up along the Euphrates River and the down to Babylon. I just wonder what else he doesn’t relate in his writings that would relate his tribulations and his constant loyalty and devotion to his God.
I’m looking forward to truly experience the spiritual exercise of Daniel’s Fast and I so appreciate your guiding words that will help me understand the true meaning of fasting. Thanks for an enlightening read!
Jean Leonard
Susan Gregory said,
May 19, 2009 at 9:10 am
Dear Jean,
Thank you so much for your great post. I too am a big fan of the Prophet! He was a great man of God and truly submitted to Him. You are so correct that we can learn a lot by the character of this man as in every circumstance he put God first.
I encourage everyone reading this post to read the Book of Daniel and as you do, pick up on the character qualities of this man. Surely they were shaped by his devotion to living a life submitted to God and obeying His commandments. Over and over again in God’s Word He tells us to obey His commandments and to walk in His ways. But the choice is always ours. Daniel made the choice to follow the plan of God for His life and we too can make the same choice.
That doesn’t mean our life will be without challenges, but choosing God means we are always choosing victory. Daniel didn’t have Christ . . . we do . . . and we have the better covenant on which we can rely. But again, the choice is ours. We can choose God’s way or our own way! Let’s make the right choice again today . . . and live a life of greatness, just like Daniel.
Thanks again, Jean. You have added a not of inspiration!
Be blessed on your fast.
Sharon Franklin said,
May 17, 2009 at 1:20 am
Good Morning Susan,
It’s been confirmed by the Holy Spirit that this is the day I will begin the Daniel Fast for 21 days. The Good Lord has prepared my mind, body, soul, & spirit for this exciting and new venture. I know there are some rough days ahead but I’m placing my faith and trust in “The All-Sufficient One, ” El Shaddai, to bring me through this intimate time with the Lord. As you can see, I can’t sleep. I did lay down but was restless. And it’s pretty warm here.
If I may, I would like to give my thoughts on Mpho Nojiwa’s question dated May 12, 2009 concerning Daniel consuming “no pleasant food” during his 21 day fast in Daniel chapter 10:3. I did a little research. And in the Good News Bible it says,”I did not eat any rich food.” In the New International Version Study Bible it says, ” I ate no choice food.” And in The New Inductive Study Bible it says, ” I did not eat any tasty food.” So in my mind, it goes back to Chapter 1:8 where it speaks of Daniel refusing to eat any of the royal food. Not so much that the food was bitter but he chose to eat or partake of any choice foods he may have been consuming prior to him mourning. Also he may have eaten a lot of vegetables in their raw state. But I think what is “key” is the fact that Daniel was really “in tune” with the Lord and he didn’t allow any distractions to steal his focus during that time of praying and mourning, not even food. He had a determined spirit and God honored that. And I hope and pray that I will be just as committed to this fast. That I will perpetually look to the hills from which cometh all my help, should I begin to experience weakness. God bless you Susan. I just love your encouraging emails. Very uplifting. thank you.
Blessings,
Sharon
Bob Mekolon said,
May 18, 2009 at 4:05 am
Hello, I am consdering trying the Daniel Fast a had a question. I am working on loosing a lot of weight while working with the director of the FCA ( Fellowship of Christian Athletes).I am very overweight and need to eat around 2500 cals daily in 5, 500 cal meals. My question is to achieve that on this fast i would need to eat a ton of vegetables, so could you tell me what allowable foods would have the highest calorie content? Thank you for your dedication to our Lord and continued blessings to you and your family.
Susan Gregory said,
May 19, 2009 at 8:53 am
Hi Bob!
Wow! Praise God for this journey you are on as you make such a great effort toward health and wholeness. Our God is go good and always faithful!
Your body will be very happy with the fresh fruits and vegetables, but you can also eat beans and rice, other legumes and whole grains, nuts and dried fruit and peanut butter (or other nut butters). All of these foods are higher in calories. Also, adding an appropriate amount of salad dressing to your salads will add to your caloric intake.
The Daniel Fast is a very healthy way to eat and your body will appreciate all the clean and pure foods you are feeding it. Also, one thing I have discovered is that as I keep my focus on developing the spiritual discipline (and a fruit of the spirit) of self control (rather than using my own will power to not eat specific foods) then I am much more successful. Self control is a powerful gift we can use as we work toward submitting ourselves under the loving and faithful hand of God.
I hope this helps!
Bonita said,
May 19, 2009 at 7:15 pm
Hello Susan,
Our church is beginning the Daniel Fast on Friday, May 22 and ending on May 31 (Pentecost Sunday). We are excited and in expectation for a mighty move of the Spirit of the Lord on that date. It is my understanding that this is the first time this church has been on a fast and I can’t wait to see how God is going to bless. This Friday, we will meet for prayer and consecration and a Daniel Fast meal. On the 31st, we will break our fast together with praise, worship, testimony and celebration.
May God continue to bless you and your ministry as you bring this information to the Body and thank you for your words of encouragement and inspiration through your e-mails.
Susan Gregory said,
May 22, 2009 at 8:31 am
Dear Bonita,
Be blessed as you and your church body grow in the love and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is so good and faithful. God promises to reward those who diligently seek Him so as you and your church body pray and fast, seeking God and His ways, you will surely be blessed!
Thanks for the post! Check in and let us know how the goodness of God manifested for you!
geru said,
May 24, 2009 at 2:56 pm
hi, this is an encouraging site. I am starting a 21 day daniels fast tomorrow. I plan to only eat fruits, vegetables and nuts, and drink water. I am praying for a breakthrough in many aspects of my life. I hope this site will be motivating throughout my three weeks. I will update as my fast progresses. thank you for your motivations.
Susan Gregory said,
May 24, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Congratulations on your decision to fast. I do encourage you to join our mailing list at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com so you can receive complimentary information about the Daniel Fast, including the Daniel Fast Guidelines.
God is so good and He rewards those who diligently seek Him. Be blessed on your fast as you grow in the love and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
gracehickson said,
May 25, 2009 at 10:17 am
My church is fastting for 10 day,We are Penactiol 50 days, alot of my sister’s in chirst are doing the Daniel. I’m obentantio to my Pastor the Lord is puitting this on my heart.IM BENING bless as I;m em-mailing you know.
Susan Gregory said,
May 25, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Hi Grace,
Be blessed on your Daniel Fast as you seek a closer relationship to the Lord. God is so good and wants an intimate and trusting relationship with each of us. I encourage you to join the Daniel Fast mailing list at http://www.Daniel-Fast to receive more information and encouragement.
Be blessed!
Sharon Franklin said,
May 27, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow! I am half way through my 21-day Daniel Fast. I can’t praise God enough for His goodness and mercy. For opening up my eyes, heart, spirit, my whole being. For giving me all that I need as I travel through this journey.
Doubts have creeped in. Hunger pains. Cravings and even a couple of negative situations but the Holy Spirit quickly intervene and told me not to entertain the situation. Not that I won’t have to deal with it, but I think He didn’t want me to lose my joy or my focus during that time. And I didn’t.
I lost 6 more lbs last week, ( I weigh weekly) and my blood sugars are double digits. It use to be 300 or well over 400. This morning it was 80. That’s shouting news!
While studying today, it was revealed that I was praying for some of the wrong things during my fast. And I thank the Holy Spirit for shedding light on the situation to get me on the right track.
This period of my life has been an awesome experience. I’m the Minister of Music in my church and praise and worship is one of my true loves. It seems the annointing is flowing so heavy now. Even in my music, when I practice, I’m not struggling as much to learn new material. Totally awesome.
My cup seems to be over-flowing and yet doubt creeps in to make me think I can’t finish the coarse. But with all of my being, I know who I am and more importantly, I know Who’s I am. I can do all things through CHRIST who strengthens me. I have to keep pushing myself and pressing my way. I made it this far and I know God will take me through the rough sides of the mountain.
God was unique in preparing me for this approx. a week and a half prior to me starting the fast. He even told me when to start it. What to eat. What books to purchase. What to study. When to study. How to keep a journal. So He’s lead me every step of the way. Matter of fact, as I reflect back over the months, I can say He’s been preparing me all year for this moment. I just didn’t realize it at the time.
God is so good and His mercy endureth forever! I’m doing a more intense study on Fasting and I plan to share it with my Sunday School Class where I’m also a teacher. Because I think when we realize the power in fasting we will be more willing to participate. More importantly, I want the Saints of God to gain a better relationship with their Father in Heaven. An intimacy that they will crave for. Just like the craveing I may get for certain foods. I want to have that same craveing or even better craving for God and His Word. And that’s one of my purposes for doing the Daniel Fast.
Thanks for listening and reading. I love you all.
Blessings,
Sharon
Rhonda Ferebee said,
June 1, 2009 at 5:24 am
Great information. I look foward to the journey
Rhonda said,
June 1, 2009 at 1:03 pm
I just wanted to say that it blesses me so much to see so many believers fasting for the purpose of seeking God. I did a Daniel fast late last year and am beginning another today. This site was invaluable to us then, and I’m back again for encouragement – and to encourage others! Thanks so much for what you do, Susan. God bless you and this ministry!
kelly farias said,
June 1, 2009 at 6:56 pm
hi, i don’t know much about fasting this is the first time i’m committed to doing it, our church is having a corporate Daniel fast, this is my first day, and i have a few questions.
By the blogs above i notice that i shoul ONLY drink water, about food, no dayries at all, no cheese, no butter, no ice cream right? well i figured.. what’
s the point if we don’t sacrifice our flesh for Jesus? He did so much more for us didn’t he? Well i believe this last statement just answers my last question, however i woul like your opinion… Is it ok to have intimacy with my husband while on the 21 day fast? would i break my fast if i did?
Even by eating other foods if i happen to brake my fast what shoul i do? should i continue?
thank you. I’m a strong beliver and my love for my Lord and Savior is keeping me close to him and will take me all the way through this fast
God bless you .
Susan Gregory said,
June 11, 2009 at 9:24 am
Dear Kelly,
Yes, you have answered most of your own questions. The only beverage on the Daniel Fast is water and all the foods allowed are plant-based, so dairy products are out.
Regarding marital relations with your husband: that is a decision you will want to make together. Many couples find abstaining from sex during the Daniel Fast to be a powerful help in their relationship as they find other ways to express love and care for the other.
If you happen to break the fast, don’t quit! Instead, get back on track . . . but examine your heart as to why you broke it. What was going on in your mind and why did you choose to give in to the flesh and break the fast. This is a powerful opportunity to learn more about yourself and how you can put your flesh in submission to your spirit. We are called to walk in the spirit as He is in the Spirit. That’s the life of faith in Christ where power, rest and peace are available to us.
Be blessed!
Georgia E. Hampton said,
June 9, 2009 at 9:22 am
Hi Susan,
I was going over some of the recipes in the cookbook and I noticed one recipe called for Matzo Crackers. I went to a store called Trader Joe’s to find the crackers but they did not have them. I began reading the labels on other types of crackers and came across the following cracker which I would like to know if I can have it on the Daniel Fast. The cracker is called Pita Bite Cracker naturally backed w/sea salt. When I read the ingredients it listed Enriched Unbleached Wheat Flour (Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Water, Yeast Sunflower Oil, Sea Salt, Dough Conditioner (What Starch, Ascorbic Acid [Vitamin C]). Is this something that I can have on the Daniel Fast? Also, I would like to know what is nut butter and where can I get it from? Can I use nut butter in place of butter or margarine? Gee I hope so. So far I have been really successful at doing The Daniel Fast which is surprising to me since I am known as a junk food junkie. But I know with God’s help, I can do anything. Thank you for everything and have a “Blessed” day.
Georgia
Susan Gregory said,
June 11, 2009 at 9:10 am
Hi Georgia,
Thanks for your questions! You seem to be doing really well on the fast! One tip I send along to encourage you is to keep in mind that you are spirit, you have a soul, and you live in a body. When we fast, we are putting our spirit in charge (our spirit is the part of us that was born again when we accepted Christ). Our soul or flesh is where the cravings come from . . . and sometimes we need to tell our flesh to “sit down and be quiet!” This is one of the most powerful lessons we can learn while fasting . . . plus gain new experience of putting our spirit in control since we are called to walk in the spirit as He is in the Spirit.
Okay, to your questions: Yeast is not allowed on the Daniel Fast, so the crackers would be out. You can find Whole Wheat Matzo in most supermarkets in the Kosher Foods section. Also, enriched flour is processed where they’ve taken the wheat germ out and then put other ingredients back in . . . so it is not allowed on the Daniel Fast. Stick with whole wheat products.
Nut butters include peanut butter, almond butter and the like. They can be found in the Natural Foods section of most supermarkets. You will need to read the label to learn the ingredients to make sure there is not shortening or sweeteners added.
I hope this helps!
Angela gregory said,
June 14, 2009 at 11:51 am
Hi,
I am doing the Daniel Fasting now for7 days, and just today I decide to google it. Iam glad to find so many people doing it. I thought I was all alone.
I am doing that for my son, seeking for him God’s protection as he is going through difficult times.
I stopped eating bread,nuts, sugar, wine, vinegar, salt… anything that would provide taste. It has been very difficult. I had eggs once but it didn’t feel right, so I didn’t have it anymore. I was having milk to cook my porridge though, I will stop and replace it with water or soya milk.
Thanks for the blog, it brought me some comfort. Feeling a bit down today, please pray for me.
Angela
Susan Gregory said,
June 17, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Dearest Angela,
You are in my prayers. Even now as I type these words I am asking God to comfort you and make His presence known to you. I pray that you will grow in the knowledge and love of our grace-giving Jesus Christ.
I encourage you to get a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com. You will see that there are many foods you can eat and still remain on this partial fast. Also, remember that the most important part of the fast is so you can draw closer to the Lord. You are putting your whole self on alert for this period of time and making it known that you trust your Lord and you are pressing into Him for these needs. That’s the essence of fasting!
Be blessed!
Maria said,
June 15, 2009 at 2:36 am
God Bless, I was wondering if during the fast is it mandatory to be up every morning at 6:00AM?
Susan Gregory said,
June 17, 2009 at 12:19 pm
Hi Maria,
No, you don’t have to have a specific time of prayer and quiet time with God. However, it’s important to keep God as the priority during your fast. Most people find that dedicating the first part of the day to the Word of God, prayer, study and meditation is best. It’s a great way to start the day and is usually the time with the least distractions. But this doesn’t work for everyone. So figure out a time that does work for you, commit it to the Lord and then try to be diligent about meeting with your Father each and every day.
I hope this helps.
Christine said,
June 15, 2009 at 9:56 am
Susan,
I just wanted to inform first time “Daniel Fasters”, that this fast requires much preparation and planning, not only shopping but meal planning and preparation also, you can’t just “run out and pick something up”. Planning of your time for prayer and mediation is just as important as meal preparation for this fast. Thanks for all that you do. I have been doing the Daniel Fast for several years now and was glad to stumble across your web site. This fast has changed my life both spiritually and physically. After having high cholesterol, being overweight, and nearing high blood pressure at the age of 23, I did the fast for 21 days and afterward continued to no longer eat red meat or pork and cut back on my sweets. A 20 pound lighter and a much healthier me, thanks you
Susan Gregory said,
June 17, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Hi Christine,
You are so right about needing to plan and prepare for the Daniel Fast. My entire goal is to help men, women and teens experience a successful fast, and two of the key steps are planning and preparing.
Also, the health benefits of the fast are amazing and most people have similar experiences to yours in that they lose weight and lower their cholesterol. A woman friend from church was singing the praises of the Daniel Fast after her most recent doctor appointment where he gave her high marks for the great improvement in her health! Wow! God knows what He’s doing! He is so good!
Be blessed, dear one. And thanks for your post.
Judy said,
June 15, 2009 at 10:38 am
Hi Susan,
I have been considering the Daniel fast and I have a couple of questions. I juice a lot of fruit and vegetables and I sometimes use ginger root in some of my vegetable juices. Is ginger root a part of this fast. Also can you flavor the recipes with fresh herbs. I have a garden and I grow all my own herbs. It is a plant but I am not sure if it is considered a pleasant food.
Susan Gregory said,
June 17, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Hi Judy,
Yes, all fruits, herbs and other plants like ginger root are allowed on the Daniel Fast. But here is one of those fine lines: the only beverage on the Daniel Fast is water (see Daniel 1), however liquid meals are acceptable. The way I make the difference for myself is if I consider what I am drinking a beverage, then I don’t drink it during the Daniel Fast. If the drink is a meal, then it would be okay. I know this may sound trivial, but the Daniel Fast is based on just a few verses along with typical Jewish fasting principles, so there are some gray areas.
I hope this helps!
Judy said,
June 27, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Thanks for the advise. I am at the end of my second week now and I feel great. I don’t have any cravings like I thought I would have. I love my junk food and thought it would be hard to give them up but I am pleasantly surprised. I think this fast as changed my way of eating for good. I feel very refreshed and healthy. I never thought a fast would do that. My mind is much more clearer. I am so glad I started this fast and would highly recommend it to everyone. God Bless.
Rev. Juanita Brown said,
June 22, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I have enjoyed this site. I am thinking about doing the Daniel Fast for 21 days – I will email my results or questions
Mary said,
June 30, 2009 at 9:40 am
GREETINGS!!!
I am so thankful to have found this blog on the Daniel’s Fast. I think I am going to try out the fast food guidelines as a 21 day diet before doing the fast. I was a bit apprehensive in doing this fast because I haven’t yet clarified what I need to be fasting for, however I do need a healthy solution to helping me lose weight in order to avoid possible future health problems. So 21 days of fruits and veggies here I come! Please keep me in your prayers that I will commit to and complete these 21 days!!!
And again thank you for all the information supplied via this blog!
b-bLessEd
Susan Gregory said,
July 1, 2009 at 5:46 am
Hi Mary,
Thanks for your post and your supportive words about the blog!
You are correct in not entering the fast without a purpose. But I might suggest that you do treat your 21-day period as a fast by making your purpose gaining the fruit of the spirit of self-control; or perhaps you could focus your fast on what it means to offer your body as a living sacrifice unto the Lord (Romans 12).
In taking this type of approach, you will not only be more successful in your “diet,” but you will also gain valuable growth in your spirit.
I hope this helps!
Mary said,
July 2, 2009 at 4:46 am
Thanks for the advice!!! Funny how God works on yesterday evening before I read your sugesstion, I was having a “moment” in trying to figure out what in the world I am suppossed to do after I graduate from college Sometimes I have a hard time hearing from God or I doubt what I think I’m hearing and just say to myself ” oh well God will show me eventually, i guess” and let it go. But anyway as I was thinking of what my passion and purpose is and what I could do everyday all day with or without pay I stumbled upon what I need to fast for….direction and revelation of my purpose and passion. So I pray that during these 21 days (I start on the 6th) that clarification will come as to what God wants me to do next. Keep me in your prayers!!!
b-Blessed!!
Chizoba Uka said,
July 4, 2009 at 12:13 pm
I am so glad I came across this blog. For the past year I have been slowly killing myself with a vast intake of sugar and sugar containing foods like biscuits, chocolates, boiled sweets and baked goods. Eating has taken over my life, and my appearance and prayer life have taken a nose dive. I wake up everyday promising myself that this would be the day that I get my life in gear, but it never happens. By 6o’clock I find myself sitting in front of the television with a whole packet of biscuit, sweets or both! To the outside world, I’m a happy mother and wife but this habit of mine is killing me, both physically and emotionally. I have put on a huge amount of weight and it has in turn crushed my self confidence. Please pray for me as I commit to starting this fast tomorrow. I know it will be very challenging, but I also know that with your prayers and support I will suceed. Thanks again and I’ll keep you posted on my progress.
Susan Gregory said,
July 6, 2009 at 9:39 am
Good morning Chizoba,
Dear one, I truly believe your words could be spoken by millions of men and women throughout our world! I am so thankful you wrote and shared your heart . . . and in your message I hear your Father calling you to a great life where you will be full of joy and His love.
Your Father wants a loving and caring relationship with you. He wants to rain His extravagant love over you and be your shield, your strength and your joy. But I know from experience that we have to receive what He wants to give us and also learn how to walk in His ways. His ways lead to live and goodness.
Chizoba, you were born in this time for this time. The Lord needs you to be an example to those around you of what a live with God can be! That’s a life of love, victory and joy. The great news is that we don’t have to do it on our own. Instead, we can depend on the Holy Spirit to help and guide us. When we fail, we can pick ourselves up and go toward the goal again. You are precious . . . and the Lord wants you to claim the identity He gave you as His child. Don’t let the enemy steal your identity! Rather, fight for it by putting on the whole armor of God! Trust in the Lord! Become a disciple of Jesus by sitting at His feet and learning from Him. He has so much to teach us.
Please stay in touch. And thanks again for your honest and heartfelt words.
Gwen said,
July 8, 2009 at 4:01 am
Hello Susan,
I want to start by thanking God for you and thanking you for doing the work that He has called you to do. Your insights into the Daniel fast are truly from God. Your cookbooks, daily devotionals, and periodic inspirational emails helped me spiritually throughout my 21 day fast. In the past I have completed the Daniel fast many times, but not with such ease as with your outline. By the second week, I am usually counting down the days, but this time I was at day 18 before even realizing it. I am on quest to keep my temple healthy and fit and the Daniel fast helps aid in the process. Again, thank God for you and continue to be blessed in the Lord.
Susan Gregory said,
July 8, 2009 at 8:45 am
Dear Gwen,
Thank you so much for your kind words and your encouragement! You have blessed my heart. My #1 goal is to provide members of the Body of Christ with well-researched information and tools so they can have a successful fasting experience. I so appreciate your input as it shows that I have been able to serve God by serving you! That is my hope!
May the blessing of the Lord overtake you as you continue to grow in the love and knowledge of our amazing God!
Jennifer said,
July 14, 2009 at 9:20 pm
Dear Susan,
Thank you for the time and effort you put into this website. I have been reading it for some time now. I have felt God calling me to do a fast for awhile but I seem to have a hard time getting past day 2 or 3! I start feeling so weak and grumpy that I go right back to eating the way I was. When I start going without things, such as coffee, it seems like I have a hard time praying, feeling that closeness with God. I try to pray but all I seem to think about is how bad I feel and the Lord seems so far away. I so much want to give up these things for Him. I know He has been telling me to for awhile but the enemy is fighting me hard over it. I was just wondering if things do get better after the first few days. I’m so glad you’re here to ask this to! I appreciate you and all you do.
Love and prayers,
Jennifer
Darlene said,
July 28, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Jennifer,
I have not yet started with the Daniel fast but I do know from past experiences that you should de-caffienate yourself before you begin the fast. A week or so prior the beginning the fast, slowly take yourself off caffiene. I have done it by just drinking the same amount of coffee but using half regular coffee and half decaf for several days. I promise it makes a difference.
Susan Gregory said,
July 29, 2009 at 8:02 am
Hi Darlene,
Yes, you are so correct about weaning off caffeine. Your advice about substituting decaf is great. I encourage people to increase the amount of water they drink as they approach the fast. Also, if you haven’t weaned yourself off caffeine before you start the fast, be sure to drink at least 1/2 gallon of water each day to help lessen the effects of caffeine withdrawal.
This point also brings up another important point about fasting – that is preparation. I strongly encourage people to plan their fast similar to how they would plan a vacation. Part of that is preparing one’s body. It’s all part of setting yourself up for a successful fast.
Thanks for writing!
Marilyn said,
July 16, 2009 at 11:56 am
Good Afternoon,
I just started the fast on Tuesday as a birthday present to myself. I plan on doing it for 42 days and am seeking to be a living sanctuary and to have discernment for God’s will for my life. I also want protection for my family. Please pray for me.
One question today is can I have soy milk on this fast?
blessings
Susan Gregory said,
July 23, 2009 at 7:39 am
Hi Marilyn,
I love the way you are approaching this fast. That’s exactly how a period of prayer and fasting should be! I hope the very best for you as you seek God and His ways during your 42 days!
Yes, you can drink soy milk on the fast, just make sure it’s unsweetened! I find unsweetened soy milk in the natural foods section of my supermarket.
Blessings to you!
Cristy V. said,
July 23, 2009 at 11:17 am
It is so inspiring to read all your comments! I am on day 2 and doing well so far… I (no that’s not really accurate …) GOD took my fast on a slightly different path. Right before I started this I was very excited and after I got all the foods- the “yeses and nos” I looked over some of the recipes here… and then went on to google vegan recipes. I was all fired up and told myself this would be great, I can try out new recipes and eat well, PERFECT. Well, GOD had another plan…. as clear as day He spoke to my heart and said no, I do not want you to feel full with food- I want you to fill up on Me. At first I was like no way…I HAVE to eat… LORD are you crazy?!?! He calmed my fears and said I don’t want your focus to be on preparing or eating food.. but on Me and the desires I have for you, so I want you to limit yourself to one meal a day. WOW! So I went to the store and bought some organic vegan “frozen dinners” so I don’t have to “think” about food at all. I also bought some additional veggies and fruit. My meal last evening was AMAZING! Seriously- my silly little frozen vegan entree was terrific! I cooked it, ate it savored it enjoyed it and then moved on. It was really freeing!
I am still unsure if the Lord wants me to stick to the ‘one meal plan’ or even the frozen dinners for the whole 21 days or not… we’ll see what He says, I am confident He will make that apparent as I move forward with Him by my side!
Thanks again for having a site like this… it is very encouraging and useful!
Blessings to you all!
Cristy
Toniceia Ftranklin said,
July 28, 2009 at 2:20 pm
Hello,
I’m starting my fast on Thursday, and wanted to know if there is a particular time of day that i can eat the foods that are listed….
Susan Gregory said,
July 29, 2009 at 8:07 am
Good morning!
Thanks for your question about times of eating on the Daniel Fast. For some fasts, food is restricted from dawn to dusk, however that is not part of the Daniel Fast. So you can consume foods at any time. I encourage people to eat three modest meals and two snack using foods that are consistent with the Daniel Fast Guidelines. You can find the food list on this blog, or you can receive a copy emailed to you by going to http://www.DanielFast.com.
I hope this helps!
Kelvin said,
July 29, 2009 at 3:43 pm
Hello Susan,
I have read through your page and I am thoroughly impressed with the attention that you give.
I too have a question about the Fast, I am on Day 1 and I was wondering if ClifBars are compliant. I have tried to read the labels on the Crunch Peanut Butter and Blueberry Crisp, and I believe its acceptable, but I want to make sure as I have not read food labels with such detail before.
Thanks for your help and May God grant his blessings to you.
Susan Gregory said,
July 30, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Hi Kelvin,
Thanks for your pleasant comments about the Daniel Fast Blog. I’m glad the information has been helpful to you. That’s my intent, to serve God by serving His people.
From what I can see, ClifBars are great except that they include cane juice as an ingredient. Cane juice is sugar before it’s granulated. And since no sweeteners are allowed on the Daniel Fast, that would mean the ClifBars are not acceptable.
I do appreciate you post, because it’s prompted me to search out and test a recipe for Daniel Fast Bars that would be a good snack and energy bar!
Thanks so much!
Reese said,
August 5, 2009 at 10:27 am
Hello Susan,
I am doing research on the Daniel’s Fast that the Young Adults of my church are being charged to do by our Youth Leader. As I did research I noticed that the 21-day Daniel fast is ideal. Our Youth Leader mentioned doing a 50-day Daniel Fast before agreeing on letting us research the fast and come back with ideas.
Are there pros and cons to 50 days? What are your thoughts?
Also, with a fast as long as 50-days does that mean you have to refrain from activities that one usually does (i.e. workout, movies, social outings)?
BTW, your ministry is great! Thanks for this blog.
Make today a great day!
Thanks so much!
Reese
Susan Gregory said,
August 8, 2009 at 7:10 am
Good morning Reese,
Thanks for your nice comments about this ministry. I am blessed that the Lord has me doing this! He is so good and my #1 goal is to serve Him by serving His people.
The Daniel Fast is a great partial fast for 50 days. It’s healthy eating and your group should do very well with it. The only thing is that those who are very active might need to add some additional protein or plan their meals with extra protein in mind. That can be done in two ways: 1) make sure plenty of leafy green vegetables, legumes, whole grains and soy products are consumed; or 2) add appropriate amounts of fish or chicken to the eating plan to meet the protein needs.
Regarding activities during the fast, we are consecrating ourselves or setting ourselves apart during the Daniel Fast as we seek God and His ways. So it’s good to keep that focus in mind. But that does not mean wholesome activities would need to be eliminated. Anything that feeds the spirit and lifts the soul in a godly way is good.
I hope this helps!
Amy said,
August 8, 2009 at 1:02 pm
Dear Susan:
I am happy to say that I am now on day 20 of my 21 day fast. I only intended to do a 10 day fast- but knew in my spirit on that 10th day that I wasn’t done yet. Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks for having this site and all the information that I needed to be successful on this fast. You see, it is quite amazing that I have done this fast. I am a 42 year old woman who weighs several hundred pounds and have never had self-control in my life. Well, never been able to achieve self-control, anyway. Having all of the lists and recipes made it so much easier to continue. Also, the daily email devotions have been more help to me than you will ever know. I started praying for my husband to have Ezekiel’s heart after the one from Ezekiel about getting a heart of flesh instead of a heart of stone- and he has started going to church with me! Tomorrow will be the 4th Sunday in a row.You don’t know how big that is for me- and for him! Anyway- the best thing is that I have never been able to succeed on any diet- not even for a day. I have not put one thing in my mouth in the last 20 days that was not allowed on the Daniel fast. Not one thing!!! It hasn’t always been easy- but I have done it- and now I know with God’s help- I can do it!!! It isn’t about losing weight – it is about letting God have his way in my life- and living my life like a child of the living God- and they are not gluttons! Anyway- I feel like hope has been given back to me. Now I can work on the one thing that I have always been defeated in- and KNOW that with God’s might hand- I can do it! Being able to overcome this part of my life has set me free- and I am leading the life of a believing over-comer! Thanks so much for your dedication and obedience in having this resource for those of us who have failed all of our lives- you have helped give me my victory!!!!!!
With much love and appreciation,
Amy
Susan Gregory said,
August 9, 2009 at 7:20 pm
Dearest Amy,
Your message brought tears to my eyes. I am so happy for you, dear one. Our Father is so good and He loves you more than you can know. I am so glad that the Daniel Fast has served as a change-point in your life. And I am blessed that I was able to serve you during this time.
I know you have everything inside of our to be successful with your health! That’s because you have Christ living inside of you. I praise God that you have experienced this truth for yourself and that you can continue to walk toward your healthy and very bright future. We have a God that only know success. So as we lean on and trust in Him, we can have the goodness he wants for us. I encourage you to continue with many of the good eating habits you’ve developed during the fast. Add good foods back into your diet and you will continue to have good success.
I also am so happy that your husband is going to church with you. What a wonderful blessing. You witness to Him and the power of God working in Him is so great. God is so good.
Keep making positive choices for your life and stay in God’s Word. He is our mighty tower and refuge.
Amy said,
August 15, 2009 at 8:33 am
Susan-
Hello from Amy, again! I just wanted you to know that although I have enjoyed my first few days off of my 21-day fast- I miss it so much! I have been very careful about what I eat & drink- knowing I will never become addicted to caffeine again- the detox is just too much! And trying hard not to eat refined sugar. But- I was so blessed during the fast- I am going back into fasting Monday- which will have given me a one-week break. I talked it over with my husband ( who is still attending church with me every Sunday!!!) and he enjoyed the fresh foods and whole grains that I served while fasting and is looking forward to continuing to eat foods that are healthy for our family. But- the greatest thing of all- the Lord blessed me last night by letting me pray with a co-worker who re-dedicated his life to Christ! It was the most heart-warming and amazing journey- and I am still walking on air! God is SO VERY GOOD!!! I truly feel Psalm 51: 10-13 at work in my life:
Create in me a clean heart, Oh God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. THEN will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
Wow! Fasting and praying cleaned my heart and renewed a right spirit within me! And with this verse God answered my prayer: (verse 13) Lord, use me! Show me what my calling is- and bring forth fruit for your glory through me! Since I fasted, I have been asked to lead a woman’s teaching at church and been used to help lead this co-worker back to Christ! My prayer now is that God will continue this good work in me until the blessed day of His coming- I only live to serve Him!
Thanks, again, for giving me the knowledge I needed to serve my King!
Amy
Stephen T. Blevins said,
August 9, 2009 at 6:01 am
The Daniel Fast is very interesting. Now what kind of food should you eat during this fast again.
Susan Gregory said,
August 9, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Hi Steven,
Thanks for your post. You can have the Daniel Fast Guidelines emailed to you by supplying your email address at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com.
crystal said,
August 13, 2009 at 7:36 am
does the daniel fast help you detox from heavy metals in our bodies like mercury?
Susan Gregory said,
August 13, 2009 at 7:49 am
Good morning Crystal,
I don’t know of any testing that has been done about the Daniel Fast and heavy metal detox. I do know that the Daniel Fast has lead to significant health improvements in the area of diabetes, high blood pressure, allergies, arthritis and cancer. I also receive reports about improved skin, greater vitality and general well-being.
The eating plan is a natural detox in that so much water is consumed along with lots of fiber, no chemicals, no sweeteners and only whole, healthy foods.
I suggest you check out this site to learn more about a natural way to detox from heavy metals: Heavy Metal Detox
Also, consider seeing a reputable and certified Homeopathic MD who will be able to test and guide you through this process.
I hope this helps!
Kevin said,
August 15, 2009 at 8:25 am
Hi,
My mother and I are about to start the Daniel fast. My concern is whether or not it will hurt to work out as much as I do. I usually lift weights 3-4 times a week and play basketball 3-4 times a week. Is it okay to continue with this while on the Daniel fast, or should I cut back?
Susan Gregory said,
August 18, 2009 at 10:57 am
Hi Kevin,
I am so happy that you and your mother are starting the Daniel Fast. It is an amazing experience as you draw closer to God and seek Him with your whole heart.
You can do one of three things: 1) cut back on your physical activity; 2) make sure you eat plenty of whole grains, green leafy vegetables, beans with rice, and soy products; or 3) add appropriate amounts of fish and chicken to make sure you are getting enough protein.
You seem to expend more energy than most people (and perhaps you are also in those growing years). So slightly modifying the Daniel Fast to meet your special needs is totally okay. You will not lessen the power in the fast as long as you keep God at the forefront.
I hope this helps!
tiana patterson said,
August 17, 2009 at 6:15 pm
Hello,
If the Daniel just ate vegeatables and water why is it okay to eat fruits, nuts and beans. I need understand be I really want to do it the right way.
Susan Gregory said,
August 18, 2009 at 10:13 am
Hi Tiana,
The older translations use the word “pulse” instead of vegetables; and according to scholars when this term was used, it meant foods that were grown from seeds. Thus, the plant-based foods for the Daniel Fast.
I hope this helps!
Corby said,
August 18, 2009 at 9:48 am
Hi Susan,
Great blog and very informative. I began this fast 14 days ago and all is well. I feel good spiritually, emotionally, and physically, and I have lost 10 pounds! It is truly a Godsend, as I was about 40 lbs overweight and I had been praying for a “best” weight loss plan. My church group started studying the Book of Daniel. Soon, I learned of this Daniel Fast. I find it exceedingly easy to stick with, my appetite has lessened dramatically and I am no longer HUNGRY, and drinking water makes me not THIRSTY like I used to feel with coffee and sodas.
My question to you: Can one STAY on the diet/fast indefinitely? It seems to be doing only good for the body (cleansing and purifying). Is there anything negative that could result from staying on it long term?
Susan Gregory said,
August 18, 2009 at 9:59 am
Hi Corby,
I am so glad you are experiencing a successful Daniel Fast and I am very happy that you have found the blog helpful!
Many people eat similar to the Daniel Fast all the time. I too find it a very healthy way to eat! I am not a nutritionist, so you would want to get a health professional to put a stamp of approval on the fast from their expertise. However, I would say the only issue is enough complete protein, which would be easily solved by 1) making sure you are eating enough protein meals (whole grains, beans and rice, leafy green vegetables, soy products, etc.) or 2) adding appropriate amounts of lean animal proteins such as fish and chicken a few times each week, but otherwise everything the same.
I hope this helps.
Pastor Ken said,
August 18, 2009 at 10:45 am
I started the Daniel fast a week ago and enjoy the foods…I like veggies and fruit. But I have recently started having diarrhea and a few times during the day. Is this a normal step and will it go away or should I be concerned?
Susan Gregory said,
August 18, 2009 at 11:12 am
Hello Pastor Ken,
It sounds like your body is getting a good cleaning! That’s a good thing. You might want to cut back on the amount of fruit you are eating and increase the whole grains. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water.
With that said, if you do get concerned, give your health professional a call. However, your body’s reaction is common and should balance out. Make sure your diet is balanced with whole grains, vegetables, legumes and fruit.
Thanks for your post.
Kristen said,
August 28, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I appreciate your comments on “Fasting is Always About Food” (under the Support heading). Just tonight I heard someone talking about fasting from TV. In my head, I thought exactly what you said – turning off the TV is not truly fasting in the biblical sense. Yes, we can abstain from watching our favorite shows for a time, but there’s nothing like denying or restricting yourself the very thing you need to live on in order to draw closer to the Lord.
Susan Gregory said,
September 1, 2009 at 7:23 am
Thanks for your comment Kristen.
You are correct about biblical fasting always being about denying food. Abstaining from time-eating activities like television can be a good decision, but it should not be a replacement for fasting.
Be blessed on your fast.
Scott said,
October 2, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Wow, thanks for all of this information!
ZELLA said,
October 7, 2009 at 8:37 pm
I JUST STARTED THIS FAST 3 DAYS AGO. THE QUESTIONS I NEED TO ASK IS WHAT IS PERMITTED ,WHAT FOODS ARE NOT PERMITTED. FRIENDS ARE GIVING ME THINGS THAT I SHOULD AVOID AND THINGS THAT IS OKAY TO NIBBLE ON. PLEASE HELP
Charlotte said,
October 28, 2009 at 8:37 am
Good Morning Susan, you have truly been a blessing to me going through this fast. I have fasten before, but not for those many days. With you sending emails and your encourgaing words and the Word in front of me. Help me through my fast. Sunday was my 21st day and it was truly a blessing and I give God ALL the PRAISES because I have learned from this and it has given me strenght. Thank you again for sending the emails.
Susan Gregory said,
November 5, 2009 at 12:45 pm
Dear Charlotte,
Thank you so much for your encouraging words. I am blessed beyond words to have this ministry. I am so thankful that the Lord gave me this ministry.
My prayer for you is that you will continue to grow in the love and knowledge of Jesus Christ as you move forward in your Kingdom of God living.
Mara said,
October 28, 2009 at 5:34 pm
Just a question, I have been really unwell for a year now, at connect the other night, we were discussing the topic of fasting. My leader mentioned the daniel fast, after researching it – i am excited and quite eager. I just have one question – do you recommend someone fasting when they are unwell? As the doctors are coming up with dead ends and I just have this urge to fast for a break through.
Thank-you,
Susan Gregory said,
November 5, 2009 at 12:41 pm
Hi Mara,
The Daniel Fast is a very healthy way to eat and many people receive healings during the fast. However, you will want to check with your physician before you change your diet in a substantial way. You can get a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com to show to your physician. Or after studying the guidelines you will be able to tell if it’s a major departure.
Also, if you need to slightly alter the fast to meet your health requirements, then that would be okay. The main thing is that you don’t want do anything that will bring you harm. I have great confidence in the Daniel Fast. But you need to be the judge as to whether it’s appropriate for you at this time.
Be blessed!
Doug said,
November 2, 2009 at 5:24 am
What about Rice Milk?
Susan Gregory said,
November 5, 2009 at 12:23 pm
Yes, unsweetened rice milk is fine on the Daniel Fast. Be sure there are no chemicals, sweeteners or other ingredients that are not allowed on the fast included in the ingredients.
Doldena said,
November 3, 2009 at 6:50 am
My question is for a partial danial fast can one include chicken in their meals?
Susan Gregory said,
November 5, 2009 at 11:56 am
Hi Doldena,
The Daniel Fast is a completely plant-based eating plan (see Daniel 1). So chicken is out. However, I do encourage individuals with special needs to add appropriate amounts of poultry to their meals (for example, nursing or pregnant women).
I hope this helps!
Susan Gregory said,
August 18, 2009 at 10:53 am
Oh Amy,
I am so happy for you! Our God is so amazing and He is the one that provides everything we need, including a healthy way to eat!
My heart is singing praises to God that I was able to play a small part in leading you to this great victory. I am so thankful God used me! What a great blessing, because I too have the longing to be used by my Father!
Please keep in touch, dear on! You and your testimony are a blessing to others!