I know many of you are in the process of collecting recipes and making decisions about how you will prepare meals during the Daniel Fast. Actually, that’s why I wrote The Daniel Fast Cookbook.
But even with the cookbook, there will be times when you prepare other recipes. You will need to decide what it “okay” on the Daniel Fast and what isn’t. So I wanted to write a few keys to help you as you make your decisions.
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You will probably need to cook a vast majority of your meals “from scratch.” That’s because so many of the prepared foods include sugar and chemicals, which are both no-no’s on the Daniel Fast.
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READ THE LABELS. You will likely be amazed, and maybe even a bit discouraged, as you try to find prepared foods that are sugar-free and chemical-free. And this is why in point #1 I said you will likely prepare most of your meals from scratch. But make sure you read the labels.
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Use frozen vegetables. Obviously, you will increase your use of vegetables on the Daniel Fast. The good news is that the vegetables found in the frozen food cases are usually totally free from any chemicals and they are more nutritious than most vegetables found in the produce section (that’s because fruits and vegetables lose their vitamins and minerals the longer they are separated from their vine or branch – wow, there’s a spiritual truth in that statement – and when the foods are flash frozen within only a few hours from harvesting, they retain more of their food value). Frozen fruits and vegetables are also “ready to go.” They are washed, trimmed, sliced and diced and ready for you to do your creative work on them to make them even better!
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Generally, if a food is a fruit or vegetable and free from sugar or chemicals, it is okay for the Daniel Fast. Make sure you review the Daniel Fast Food List and then make a call.
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Beans, rice and tofu are great sources of protein. The Daniel Fast is a great time to find new recipes that may become family favorites. There are millions of people in the world who eat foods consistent with the Daniel Fast as their core diet. Look for Asian, Latin, and East Indian recipes and you will find many are appropriate for the Daniel Fast with just a few variations.
Barbara said,
January 4, 2008 at 11:09 am
as mentioned before, I purchased the cb this am and did not download at the same time, and now I cannot go back and find out where I can download without paying again. Can you help!!! Thanks. Love this site.
Susan Gregory said,
January 4, 2008 at 11:18 am
Barbara, please check all of your email folders. I sent you the cookbook file early this morning. I will do it again now, but it’s very likely that the email has landed in a “spam” folder or something.
Please send me at email at DanielFast@LackAttack.com
Thanks!
Peggy said,
January 5, 2008 at 11:10 am
Can we drink decaffeinated coffee?
Juanita said,
January 6, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Can you purchase the books at any bookstores?
Frances said,
January 8, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Can we use salt and can we use any oranges and dressing
lima said,
January 8, 2008 at 8:01 pm
is soy milk ok ?
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2008 at 6:07 am
Hi Lima
Yes, soy milk is find. Just make sure to READ THE LABEL as a lot of the milk avaialble has sugar.
Blessings to you.
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2008 at 6:09 am
Hello Frances,
Salt and oranges are totally acceptable on the Daniel Fast. Prepared dressings are more difficult to find since most include sugar and chemicals. Try to find some in the Natural Foods section of your grocery store, but READ THE LABELS to make sure they don’t contain dairy, eggs, sugar or chemicals.
God bless you on our fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2008 at 6:11 am
Hi Juanita,
The Daniel Fast books are not available in bookstores. They are only available as immediate downloads from this site. I started this blog then realized people were so hungry for information. That’s why I wrote the books because I can provide more information in the books and in an easier to read format.
Thanks for the question and God bless you on your fast.
Susan Gregory said,
January 9, 2008 at 6:14 am
Hello Peggy,
Even decaff coffee is not allowed on the fast. Water only . . . or 100% fruit and/or vegetable juices.
I am a Seattle Girl raised up in the birthplace of Starbucks! So I can “feel your pain, sister.”
Drink lots of water to limit the withdrawal headaches if you usually drink a lot of coffee.
Blessings to you.
L Gueste said,
January 9, 2008 at 8:00 am
What about natural teas like green or others that are caffeine free. Can we have tea?
Josie Jagers said,
January 10, 2008 at 8:38 am
Just wanted to thank you for this site. My husband (our epic gathering pastor) challenged us to a 21 day fast, and many of the young people are doing a daniel fast, I sent them to your site for info. I also bought your cookbook, because we cook dinner for them every sunday after service and I am so grateful to have some nice recipes, I am doing a complete fast but the recipes look great!! we’ll see how it goes!
thanks for all the help
Darlene said,
January 10, 2008 at 12:03 pm
This is my first Daniel fast. I am on day 4, I have a terrible headache that I have had for 2 days (my husband and 2 of the nurses I work with are also fasting, but They don’t have headaches). Any suggestions?
Signed
I want to be closer to God.
Susan Gregory said,
January 10, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Thanks for your question. Every body is different, and it sounds like you are in a greater level of detox than the others. You should be clear of this in a few days, at most! Here is what I suggest:
Drink lots of water. At least 64 ounces of distilled water.
Take a multiple vitamin
Take 1200 of vitamin C
Increase your intake of bananas, cantaloupe, potatoes, tomatoes, oranges and grapefruit.
Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you through this detox period.
Use your wisdom. If the symptoms could be anything other than detox, be sure to contact your health provider.
I hope the very best for you on your fast.
Kimberly said,
January 10, 2008 at 2:34 pm
I was wondering about 100% whole wheat pasta. It this something that we can have or do we need to stay completely clear of all wheat?
Thanks for your help!
Susan Gregory said,
January 10, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Hi Kimberly
Yes, 100% whole wheat pasta is fine on the Daniel Fast.
Blessings to you!
Jan said,
January 10, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Can you have chicken broth or corn meal on the Daniel fast? How can you get a copy of the copy of the cookbook mailed? Can you drink tap water? Can you use smart balance? Thanks!
Marianna said,
January 11, 2008 at 10:46 am
I am on day four of the fast. I read that for severe headaches from coffee withdrawls one can drink black coffee with no milk or sugar but then decrease throughout the fast.
If this is not correct, does that mean I should stop then doing the fast since I broke it? All of this information is so important and I would truly appreciate any information as I truly want to get closer to God the correct way and not cheat Him most importantly.
But seriously what do you do with the severe headache withdrawls. It is almost to where I can not even open my eyes because it hurts.
Thanks.
Susan Gregory said,
January 11, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Hi Marianna,
It sounds like you are really struggling with the caffeine withdrawals. Remember that the fast should not bring harm to your body. While you obviously need to bet off coffee (your body is screaming at you), don’t do it in such a way that you are not able to function.
It is really important to drink lots of water — at least 64 ounces a day. Plus, increase your vitamin C to 1200 mg per day (spread out) and add a multiple vitamin to your routine. Finally, eat bananas, canteloupe, potatoes and other potassium rich foods.
I hope the best for you on your fast.
Mae said,
January 13, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Since tofu is acceptable, what about Seitan (gluten) and tempeh?
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Hi Mae,
Yes, these would all be acceptable since they are vegetable based products similar to tofu. For those who are reading this and don’t know about these food products, Seitan is similar to tofu except that it is wheat based. It is bland on it’s own, but like tofu acts like a sponge to the foods it is being cooked with and soaks up those flavors.
Tempeh is soy based and can be made at home from soybeans and a tempeh starter. The starter is similar to sour dough starter in that it is fermented and causes a reaction. Tempeh has been used in Indonesia for centuries but is just now coming into favor in other parts of the world. It can be fried, sauteed, used in soups and salads, and for sandwiches.
Thanks for bringing these foods to our attention, Mae.
I hope the best for you on your fast.
kathey said,
January 14, 2008 at 9:14 am
Hi, i have a quick question about the Daniel fast. Does the fast just consist of raw fruits and vegetables only? I read some of these letters and then you have a recipe book . Please enlighten me! Our church family has started this particular fast.
Rana said,
January 14, 2008 at 9:28 am
Hi Susan
I am an indian and have being preparing currie with olive oil. the local churches have just began the fast and teach that the curries should not be too pungant but then again chilli is generally hot. I am so confused. Also i have broken this fast as i have been having a dop of honey in my warm water until i read here that i should not. How much of food in the day is exceptable? I want to know as when i do this fast again I dont want to make any mistakes.
Thanks and God Bless
Rana
Susan Gregory said,
January 14, 2008 at 10:02 am
Hello Rana,
Please don’t stop this fast thinking that your mistake makes it invalid! Just make the adjustment and continue! That is like life. We make mistakes, sometimes. But because of the forgiveness of Christ, we can repent (change) and then move on!
The Daniel Fast doesn’t teach anything about the spice level of food. So this may be coming from other people’s interpretation. We must be careful not to be too legalistic when practicing the Daniel Fast. There is a lot of room for interpretation.
Regarding the amount of food, there is no specific amount. I encourage people to be sensitive to God and to listen to what their spirit is saying to them. Gluttony is certainly not a good virtue. However, we this is not a hunger fast. It is a partial fast where certain foods are restricted for spiritual purposes.
Bless you on your fast and thanks for the questions.
Susan Gregory said,
January 14, 2008 at 10:08 am
Hi Kathey,
The Daniel Fast has not restrictions on whether foods are eaten raw or cooked. The important issue with fruits and vegetables is that they are always sugar-free and chemical-free.
You will need to READ THE LABEL as you will find many prepared foods have sugar and chemical added to them.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Louise said,
January 15, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Greeting Susan,
Thank you so much for sharing the much needed information on the Daniel fast. My desire is to have a closer relationship with the Lord,and to bring my flesh under the subjection of the Holy Spirit.
Please let me know how I may order the book on the Daniel fast and the recipes. Thanks again, and I’m waiting to hear back form you.
Peace and blessings
Louie
Susan Gregory said,
January 15, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Hi Louie,
You can purchase the books as immediate downloads by going to the “Start Here” page. Just follow the links as they are self explanitory. Please contact me if you have any questions. I am always glad to help.
God bless you on your fast.
Mike N. said,
January 17, 2008 at 9:47 am
Hi Susan,
I’m new to your site, but all this information is great. I am wondering if herbal teas or honey is permitted on the Daniel Fast.
Hoping in Christ,
Mike
Susan Gregory said,
January 17, 2008 at 11:01 am
Hi Mike,
No, herbal teas and coffees are not allowed. The only beverage really should be water . . .
Now all this get’s a little “gray” since fruits and vegetables in all forms (including juiced) are considered okay. Some people are rightfully confused as to why juiced tomatoes are okay and herbal tea isn’t. For me it’s in the details and differences between juiced foods and tea.
With all that said, if you feel okay about drinking herbal tea (seek the Lord’s guidance) then feel free to drink tea. I try to stay consistent as possible. In Daniel 1 he drank only water. In Daniel 10 he drank no wine. In typical Jewish fasting, it would be water only.
Regarding honey, it and all sweeteners are not allowed.
I hope this helps.
hugs829 said,
January 18, 2008 at 8:28 pm
I read that vinger is fine but is it not made from wine? Also as for whole wheat pasta does pasta not contain eggs or are there eggless versions?
Susan Gregory said,
January 19, 2008 at 5:28 am
Good morning Hugs,
Some vinegar is made from wine, but not all. Vinegar is made from all kinds of fruits and vegetables including dates, raisins, barley, honey, rice and apples. With that said, even red wine vinegar is used in the Daniel Fast as the wine changes in the process from wine to vinegar . . . so it’s not really the same food product any longer and not used the same.
Many pastas include egg, especially “egg noodles” and the like. However, there are many pastas that don’t have any eggs. Most whole wheat pastas are only whole wheat and water.
Thanks for the questions and I hope the very best for you on your fast.
line said,
January 22, 2008 at 4:04 pm
ive heard that veggies that are prepared fried are not aloud. does it matter how its prepared? isnt it the ingredience what is important?
Susan Gregory said,
January 22, 2008 at 4:38 pm
Hi Line,
Deep fried vegetables like French fries are not allowed. However, to saute vegetables in a little olive oil is totally acceptable. It really isn’t about the ingredients, but rather the health impacts.
By the way, when you saute vegetables, heat the oil for a few minutes over medium heat first. Then do a test to make sure it has reached “sizzling” temperature. Then add the vegetables to the skillet. This prevents the vegetables becoming “oil sponges” and therefore you can saute in less oil, which is better for your health.
I hope this helps. Bless you on your fast.
CJ said,
January 26, 2008 at 9:57 am
Are eggs allowed on the Daniel Fast? If so, prepared in any way?
Susan Gregory said,
January 26, 2008 at 10:33 am
Hi CJ,
No, all animal products including dairy on not allowed on the Daniel Fast.
Blessings to you!
CJ said,
January 26, 2008 at 11:04 am
While reading through your website, I read that we can have 100% whole wheat tortillas. That means we can have 100% whole wheat bread too, right? For some reason, I was under the impression that I could have no bread. Help please.
Susan Gregory said,
January 26, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Hi CJ,
This may seem a little confusing, but there is an easy way to explain why whole wheat tortillas or okay and why whole wheat bread it not. It all has to do with 1) Bread is leavened and considered a bread, which Daniel did not eat during either of his fasts described in Daniel 1 and 10. Tortillas are not leavened and are more along the line of matzo which is same ingredients, but acceptable under Jewish dietary law during Passover (that’s when no leavening is allowed).
So that’s why no leavened breads are to be consumed on the Daniel Fast. I hope this clears up any confusion you might have.
Bless you!
CJ said,
January 26, 2008 at 3:13 pm
Absolutely. Thank you so much for your help. I am on day 13. I am so glad to have found this site because I was getting to the “bored” of what I was eating. I was just eating salads with added tomatoes and avocadoes, potatoes, and a split pea soup. This website has given me recipes to add variety. I wasn’t going to give up anyway, but this has rejuvenated me. Thank you again and God bless you.
Brian said,
January 31, 2008 at 5:31 am
We are going into a Daniels Fast this Sunday. Thanks for all the info. Would cornmeal be ok as long as no yeast is added? Or is the meal considered processed? Thanks
Susan Gregory said,
January 31, 2008 at 6:01 am
Good morning Brian,
Cornmeal, which is just ground corn, is totally acceptable on the Daniel Fast.
Bless you and your family on our fast.
Linda said,
February 2, 2008 at 2:05 am
Good morning.
I will begin the fast in a couple of days. I so appreciate this blog. I have one question. Are whole wheat bagels permitted on the fast? What about soy products such as boca items?
Joy said,
February 2, 2008 at 9:52 am
Hi Susan,
Do you know if the “Ezekial bread” that is sold in health food stores has yeast?
Thanks,
Joy
Susan Gregory said,
February 2, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Hi Linda,
No, bagels are a type of bread and contain leavening and therefore are not allowed on the Daniel Fast. Soy products are allowed in most forms. Be sure to READ THE LABELS to make sure the products are sugar-free and chemical-free.
I hope the best for you on your fast.
Susan Gregory said,
February 2, 2008 at 4:23 pm
Hi Joy,
No, all bread is off limits in the Daniel Fast, including Ezekiel Bread. The reason is that Daniel abtained from all bread on the fast (see Daniel 10), pluse leavening is a symbol of sin and frequently not allowed in Jewish fasting.
Blessings to you on your fast.
Charmaine said,
February 5, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Hi Susan,
I am starting the 21-day Daniel Fast in a few days with my church, I am a junior in highschool and will be eating my lunch at school, I was wondering if you had any specific recipe ideas or advice so that I won’t be tempted by the unhealthy school foods.
Susan Gregory said,
February 5, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Hi Charmaine,
Congratulations on your decision to fast! I love it when young people recognize their faith in such a meaningful and sacrificial way!
You can have very good lunches and your friends at school will likely prefer your foods that the dead ones commonly served from school cafeterias.
You can have all the fresh fruits and vegetables you want. Peanut butter, raisins, nuts, vefgie wraps (be careful about buying tortillas as most of them have chemicals — you will need to either make your own or shop at health food stores), rice cakes, hummus, whole wheat pasta, salads, brown rice, and soups.
I encourage you to plan ahead so that you have the foods ready rather than 1) hurrying at home so you go off the fast; or 2) not having food at school and you go off the fast.
I hope this helps, but if you need more ideas, please feel free to contact me again. Blessings to you on your fast.
L TATE said,
February 7, 2008 at 6:01 am
Oh My God, thank you sooo much for this information. You know as I sat and read all of these letters I began to cry from just the thought that folks are actually trying to get closer to the Lord by participating in this fast and at the same time they are feeling my pain and we never shared. However, this has been so informative for me and others.
God Bless You is my prayer
Kim said,
February 12, 2008 at 12:35 pm
Hi Susan,
I’m reading some recipes which include salt. I’ve been on my fast now since Ash Wednesday with my church. Please inform if salt is okay to have on the Daniel Fast?
May God continue to bless and keep you is my prayer,
Kim
Susan Gregory said,
February 12, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Hi Kim,
Yes, salt is allowed. Some people get confused about salt because in a published list the Daniel Fast restricts all preservatives, meaning artificial preservatives. Since salt is a preservative, then some folks assume that salt cannot be used in the Daniel Fast.
However, according to scripture and Jewish Dietary Laws, there doesn’t seem to be any sound reason why salt should be restricted on the Daniel Fast.
I hope this helps. Bless you on your fast.
zalika said,
February 20, 2008 at 9:04 am
What unleavened bread can you eat.
thank you
yvette said,
February 29, 2008 at 7:09 pm
I started the Daniel Fast last Sunday. I would like to know if I can use Chicken broth or cubes or beef broth to make vegetable soup? Thanks, this is my first fast and I want to do it right
Be Blessed Everyone!!
Susan Gregory said,
February 29, 2008 at 7:53 pm
Hi Yvette,
All animal products are excluded on the Daniel Fast, so beef and/or chicken broth is out. However, there are excellent vegetable broths available. I use a granulated vegetable bouillon that is really good.
I hope the best for you on your fast.
Brenda said,
March 14, 2008 at 9:38 am
I am really glad I came upont his site. I have done the Daniel Fast with my church several times and am beginning one in a few days with the leadership team at my church. I have really learned a lot things that I haven’t read on other sites. I am excited about the recipes and postings I have read and excited to see so many people willing to give up food to please the Lord and seek answers. God bless All!!!!
yvette said,
March 16, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Well, this is the last day of my 21 day daniel fast. It has truly been a blessing from God. The things that I have been praying for during the fast have come to past. Please pray for me that I continue to grow stronger in the Lord. He is faithful and will do what he said. Just have faith and trust God!! God Bless You All!!
Jane said,
March 19, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Is steel cut oatmeal considered whole grain enough for the Daniel Fast? (Thanks and blessings to you!)
Susan Gregory said,
March 24, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Yes, steel cut oatmeal is perfect for the Daniel Fast!
Bless you!
Ember said,
April 21, 2008 at 7:27 am
Hi, I love to eat the Kashi cereal that is cinnamon harvest. It says that it is made with 100% whole wheat and there is no sugar or chemicals. As long as I use soy milk would that be allowed on the fast?
Susan Gregory said,
April 21, 2008 at 7:42 am
Good morning Ember,
Yeah! You exercised one of the foundation rules in following the Daniel Fast. You READ THE LABEL! You are absolutely right that if the ingredients are all on the “okay” list, then you can go ahead and eat the cereal.
The one ingredient to look out for is “enriched flour” as that is when the flour is processed and then essential nutrients are added back into it. I find many “natural foods” with enriched flour and most people just don’t know what that really is all about. So if you find “enriched flour” on the ingredient list, then nix it during the Daniel Fast as it’s a processed product.
I hope the best for you on your fast.
Michelle said,
July 11, 2008 at 6:58 am
Hello,
I am thinking about doing this fast for a number of reasons. One, I want to be closer to God and I am heading for Mexico this Aug on a missions trip! Two, I need to be alot healthier than I am. I am not over weight, but I am not eating the right foods and detox is really great for your body. I’ve read you can eat potatoes on this fast. No margerine, but what about a little butter? I am really excited about the reports I’ve heard about this fast and Daniel is actually my favorite person in the bible. Thank you for your atention.
God Bless,
Michelle
Susan Gregory said,
July 11, 2008 at 8:41 am
Hi Michelle,
Fasting is great for the whole person as it benefits your spirit, soul and body. I do encourage you to enter into a 21-day fast and use this time to prepare yourself for your mission trip.
Regarding butter: no, it and all animal products are not allowed on the fast. However, you can use a little olive oil, which is great for your health. I use oil with Italian herbs when I eat potatoes and they are very good.
I hope this helps!
Kamille said,
July 11, 2008 at 1:52 pm
hi,
um i was wondering did pita chips or bagel chips fall into the guidelines for the fast and are instant grits ok to eat as well. thanx in advance for responding.
Susan Gregory said,
July 14, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Hi Kamille,
Generally pita and bagel chips would be out since the probably have some kind of leavening in them or they are deep fried. My standby is rice cakes. I buy the ones made from organic brown rice and they are a great snack.
You might be able to find an acceptable baked corn chip in a health food store, or you can also make your own chips by making whole wheat tortillas or chipattis and then drying them in the oven.
I hope this helps!
Tee said,
August 3, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Hello Susan,
I hope that this is not a repeat question. Does whole wheat tortillas refer to the chips or the wraps? If wraps are acceptable, are other vegetable flavored wraps ok-like spinach, tomato or jalapeno?
I am trying to get the food thing down so I can focus on the LORD. Thanks.
Susan Gregory said,
August 3, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Hi Tee,
All the chips, tortillas and wraps are fine IF they don’t include ingredients that are not allowed on the Daniel Fast such as being deep fried or including sugar, chemicals or dairy products in the recipes. That’s the thing that’s hard to find. You will likely be amazed when you read the list of ingredients in prepared tortillas and wraps. You might find acceptable products in the health food stores.
I hope the best for you on your Daniel Fast.
Daphne said,
September 1, 2008 at 3:42 am
Hi,
I am currently on the Daniel fast with my husband and a couple of people from our Church. We’ve actually got a variety of foods and with a bit of imagination we make make some tasty dishes. Can you tell me if couscous is allowed, please?
Regards. D
Susan Gregory said,
September 1, 2008 at 7:29 am
Hi Daphne,
Thanks for writing and I hope you, your husband and your friends experience great spiritual growth during your Daniel Fast.
Couscous would be allowed if it is made from whole grains. Couscous is actually pasta. So if it’s made from whole grains, then it would be okay. Otherwise, you would need to leave it off the list.
I hope this helps!
aniello cavezza said,
September 1, 2008 at 4:04 pm
hello,
I would like to know when you mentioned all breads are not allowed, does this include unleavened too? The bread I would like(sustanence only) to eat has acceptable ingredients(I think), but I would gladly omit it if not allowed. The ingredients wheat gluten and wheat germ are they ok or are they considered processed?
thank you and be blessed , neil
Susan Gregory said,
September 3, 2008 at 8:56 am
Hi Aniello,
Flat breads with no sugar or chemicals are okay on the Daniel Fast. If the bread is “raised” it has some form of leavening in it. Wheat germ and wheat gluten are okay and can be good for your health.
Keep reading the labels for ingredients to make sure the prepared products are in line with the Daniel Fast restrictions.
Be blessed!
kathi stout said,
October 2, 2008 at 11:07 am
please give me a complete list of what I can eat or what I can NOT eat…thanks
Susan Gregory said,
October 2, 2008 at 11:55 am
Hi Kathi,
You can find a complete list of foods by clicking on “Food List” on this site. To locate it, review the list of posts on the left. The list is pretty comprehensive and should give you the information you need.
Be blessed on your fast!
Patsy Daigle said,
October 30, 2008 at 8:37 am
HI, I’v read all the questions & ans., they sure do help, but one question, I need to know, Daniels fast says, ” one meal aday, so is it one meal & all fruits & veg. you can have , plus a meal fixed with all the veg. ? I really want to go on , this is my 11day. I don’t want to do nothing wrong, I’m wanting to draw closer to the Lord . Thanks
Patsy Daigle said,
October 30, 2008 at 8:39 am
This is the best site ever, I love it!!
Susan Gregory said,
October 30, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Hi Patsy,
Thanks for your kind words about the blog. I really do want this blog to be a powerful and useful ministry to God’s people.
I am not sure where you read that we eat only one meal on the Daniel Fast. Instead, we eliminate certain foods, but we can have as many meals as desired. Obviously, we keep in mind that we are fasting. But there are no restrictions to the amount of food consumed. Rather, specific foods are restricted.
I hope this helps.
Desdotcom said,
November 4, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Are pomegranates allowed?
Susan Gregory said,
November 4, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Yes, pomegranates and all fresh fruit are allowed on the Daniel Fast.
Be blessed!
MAGGIE said,
December 27, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Thank You! Your site is very informative. I read questions & answeres that are soooo helpfull, I AM STARTING A dANIEL FAST IN THE BEGINNING OF NEW YEAR FOR THE FIRST TIME.
BLESSINGS MAGGIE
Jen said,
December 30, 2008 at 8:23 pm
I am excited and encouraged to be starting a Daniel fast Sunday for the first time, too. I read that you suggest a multivitamin and Vitamin C. Any particular brands you suggest? We have a Whole Foods store, so I’m planning on visiting, but wanted to check with you, too. Also, any scripture that you recommend for encouragement during the fast? Thank you so much for your efforts and commitment to the fast and to those of us who want to embark on a closer and healthier walk with God. God bless you as you continue this ministry.
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Hi Jen,
I don’t have any specific brand, but I encourage you to get the All Natural variety of vitamins and supplements.
As far as which Scriptures to read, I suggest people read the Book of Daniel and center in on the prophet’s character. I also suggest that one looks up references on “faith and love” or “healing” or “forgiveness.” Please read about Fasting with a Purpose and it might bring some insights about how to focus your study during your fast.
Be blessed in the New Year and on your fast.
Pastor Steve Hammond said,
December 30, 2008 at 8:55 pm
I am 500 pounds and have a very unhealthy body as you can imagine. Can a person actually lose weight doing this type of fast? I have tried other fasting before but have failed due to health problems. This will allow me to still have the physical energy I need to continue my daily tasks. I hope this to be the case for the Daniel Fast. I look forward to hearing from you.
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Hi Pastor,
I am a smaller framed person and I usually lose about 10 pounds on a 21-day fast. With that said, I have to stay away from nuts, peanut butter, high-sugar fruits and pasta. But if I concentrate on salads and whole grain cereals along with the recipes included in the Daniel Fast Cookbooks, then I lose several pounds each week.
What a great witness you could be to your congregation! “I was blind, but now I see. I was sick, but now I’m, well. I was broke, and now I am debt free. I was over weight, and now I am healthy!”
I hope the very best for you on your fast!
Judy said,
January 1, 2009 at 8:43 am
I will be starting my first 21 day fast Jan 4, 2009. I was so excited about finding your uncommercial site. I just looked at the ingredients in my whole wheat tortillas and it lists corn startch, baking powder –are these permissiable on the Daniel Fast? What about baking soda?
Thanks so much, I really need this kind of help.
Blessings,
Judy in Indiana
Kerrie said,
January 1, 2009 at 7:55 pm
This is an excellent site. My church is starting “30 days to change…” and we are using the Daniel fast corporately. I read the labels on Kashi cereal and there was one ingredient that I’m unsure of “extracted cane juice”—is this permissible….would it be juice from a sugar cane? Also is “Stevia”–the natural sweetner allowed?
Thanks–and be blessed
Beverly McKinley said,
January 1, 2009 at 9:31 pm
I would like to be a part of your fast for 2009. I’m married with two girls 16 and 11. Me and my girls attend church and I’m active in our church. I’ve been the prime income in our house hold. But our home needs prayer for peace in our home, and for my husband Royce to have a relationship with Christ. I’ve fast before on my own. I’m not sure how it will work do I fast food that I crave or not eat for a certain amount of days?
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2009 at 10:58 am
Hi Beverly,
Please spend some time on this site and also you can go to http://www.Daniel-Fast.com to find more about the foodlist.
The Daniel Fast is usually practiced for 21-days of eating only those foods included on the list. You can find lots of information about the Daniel Fast on this blog or my new website. It’s all designed to help you and others experience a successful Daniel Fast.
Be blessed!
Rea said,
January 1, 2009 at 11:59 pm
Thanks again for such a wonderful and informative site! This has been a blessing to me! Now I know salt is ok but are vegetable spices ok? What about herbs or pepper? Thanks for all your help! May God bless you for your good works!
Susan Gregory said,
January 2, 2009 at 10:53 am
Hi Rae,
Thanks for our kind words . . .
Yes, pure spices and herbs are allowed on the Daniel Fast. Be sure to check the label for the ingredients in prepared spices and especially herb and spice blends as the manufacturers sometimes slip in sugar and chemicals.
Be blessed on your Fast!
Monica said,
January 2, 2009 at 5:06 pm
This is the 3rd or 4th year doing the Daniel Fast the 1st part of January. This year, I seem to be more excited to get started. I really feel that God is drawing the body (church) to seek him and be quiet in his presence.
With that said, thanks for the time you take in responding to the many post. They are helpful! I also such a blessing to see how many people are the country are on this journey!
Kerrie said,
January 2, 2009 at 7:09 pm
Could you give me information about extracted cane juice and the use of stevia?
RD said,
January 4, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Hi
I’d like to respond to Pastor Hammond. I lost 20lbs in 21 days on the Daniel Fast last year. I did not fast to loose weight, it is just an awesome side effect of what fasting will do for you.
Remember, if you do the fast and only concentrate on the weight loss part and not getting into the Word and praying it isn’t a fast it is only another diet, so try and keep your focus.
I have gained all my weight back because after the fast I didn’t continue eating with discipline.
This is the most healthy thing physically and spiritually you can ever do for yourself.
I have heard the excuse that, “I can’t fast because of health problems.” If you follow the guidelines for the Daniel Fast, there isn’t anything more healthy for you and it might help people recieve their healing and stop putting all the chemical and junk into our bodies. As always they say if you have health problems consult your physican before starting a fast.
I can’t imagine any doctor telling someone not to eat fruits and vegetables because it’s not healthy.
I pray that fasting becomes a lifestyle, not something I do once a year.
Lisa said,
January 5, 2009 at 10:48 am
God Bless you Susan for your ministry in this site! The first post on this page is from exactly a year ago, and you’re still committed to responding, even though so many of the questions have already been answered! I pray that you are blessed by the guidance you give to others.
Lisa Logan said,
January 5, 2009 at 3:58 pm
HI Susan,
I stumbled on this site in my quest to learn more about acceptable foods on the Daniel Diet and have found it very helpful. I just started the 21 day Daniel Diet today with my church and I was wondering if pasteurized OJ is ok. I am not entirely sure what that “pasteurized” means but the key ingredient on the back says “100% pure pasteurized orange juice.” I have been looking around on the web and didn’t find anything helpful so I thought I would check in with you…
Thanks!
Brandi Greenwood said,
January 6, 2009 at 6:35 am
Hello,
I am so bummed. I was so excited that I could make my homemade tortilla soup on this fast and I just learned from this site that you are not supposed to have Chicken Broth. Do I need to start over now this is my 6th day on the fast.
Also, are you supposed to limit the amount of nuts you eat? I love cashews and I have been eating them as a snack throughout the day when I get hungry, however I kind of feel like they are a delicacy and sometimes can not stop at just one (o:
I really want to draw closer to God and get rid of this emptiness I have been feeling for the past few months. I have been blessed tremendously with a wonderful husband, a one year old healthy baby boy, and a wonderful family and church family, the only reason I can come up with why I have the empties is because I am not as close to God as he would like me to be. I really desire a spiritual breakthrough on this fast and do not want to mess it up by eating Chicken Broth or to many cashews. Should I stop eating the cashews and get rid of the rest of my soup that I made with the chicken broth?
Thank you, I am so glad that I stumbled upon this site. I hope your family is blessed during this time of fasting.
Brandi Greenwood said,
January 6, 2009 at 7:07 am
Hello again,
I also read on this site that you can use soymilk. I rushed home and made a smoothie with, vanilla soymilk, bananas, blueberries, and dates. Is that ok? I saw that it has 6 grams of sugar per cup but was thinking that was natural sugar.
I want to be closer to God so badly. I desire nothing more but to be totally in his will.
Thank you for your help.
God Bless You!!
Brandi Greenwood said,
January 6, 2009 at 7:58 am
How does fasting help you get closer to God? Are you more sensitive to his spirit by denying yourself of certain foods?
I just want to make sure I am truly fasting and not just doing a diet. I can not do a water only fast as I am nursing my son.
Our church is dedicating the first 10 days of the New Year, to prayer, fasting and consecration. It was so awesome our Pastor called us to do this as I already felt the holy spirit leading me to the Daniel Fast before our pastor even mentioned it. Do I need to be praying more than what I am doing daily at our church? I go to church daily and have been sense Dec 31 and we pray from 7 until the Lord is finished doing his work. I also think about him all day and have been reading chapters out of Nehemiah daily and I am reading a book on prayer called “Experiencing the Depths of Jesus Christ” Is this enough? I am also not watching TV and not working out and working out is a big deal for me (o:
Thank you.
BrianDillman said,
January 6, 2009 at 1:24 pm
Im curious about peanut butter on celery?
Susan Gregory said,
January 6, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Hi Brian.
Yes, natural 100% peanut butter and celery are great. You can even sprinkle nuts, seeds or raisins on top!
Be blessed on your fast!
Alicia said,
January 6, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Hi Susan,
God bless you and your family. thank you for this site. This is my 3rd day with the Daniel fast. I bought your cookbook , but I dont have much time to prepare the food , because of my work schedule(3p-11p/11p-7a) most days. Are there any suggestions for food on the go. Also what foods will give me proteins? I really don’t want to lose lots of weight on during this fast since I am already underweight.Any suggestons?
Also how do I STUDY the word or what do I study. I am 27 yrs old and would really like a deeper and more intimate relationship with God.
Millicent Kelly said,
January 7, 2009 at 5:48 pm
Thanks so much for the information on the Daniel Fast. This is my first time doing the 21 day Daniel Fast. I want a deeper relationship with God. Please keep me in prayer. I WILL SURELY KEEP MY EYES ON THE LABELS!
May God Bless you
Valerie said,
January 10, 2009 at 8:08 pm
I have high cholesterol and my Doctor reccommended Promise Supershots to help remove cholesterol but it contains nonfat milk and sugar among the ingredients. These small bottles are 3.3oz and I take them daily. Should I stop drinking these shots during my fast even though It Is to better my health?
Susan Gregory said,
January 10, 2009 at 9:12 pm
Hi Valerie,
You should always follow your doctors orders, so continue with the treatments. I will say that many people have experienced a significant drop in their cholesterol after being on the Daniel Fast for 21 days. So this should all be a good time for you!
scott said,
January 11, 2009 at 2:14 pm
hello,
being a concerned parent and a person who used to work with kids would you consider the Daniel Fast to be risky for teenagers who may have or may have the potential of dealing with an eating dissorder?
Susan Gregory said,
January 11, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Hi Scott,
This is probably a question better for you than for me! I don’t have a full understanding on the underlying issues of eating disorders . . . so I can’t give a confident answer. What I do know is that the Daniel Fast is very healthy. It isn’t about quantity of food, but rather the kinds of food.
Anyone with health issues should consult their health provider before changing their diet, so that would be the same advice I would give in this case. If the increased attention about food would cause harm for an individual with an eating disorder, then they should definitely pass.
Thanks for the question!
Jane said,
January 12, 2009 at 7:50 am
Hi, my church is starting the Daniel fast, my son wants to do it he is in the 8th grade and is worried about what he can eat at school. I think it is awesome that he made his own mind up to do this with us and I want to help him but I am not sure about what easy things I can send him to school with. Do you have any ideas?
Thank you for this site it has helped me alot!
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Hi Jane,
I can see why you are so proud with your son! What a guy! There are a couple ways your son could go with this. He could stick with the Daniel Fast at home for breakfast and dinner. At lunch, he could do the best he can with what is available. That would mean that he would pass on desserts, soda, fatty foods. But instead make the healthiest choices possible. That would still be a very good fast.
The other option is to pack lunches of cut vegetables, fruit, peanut butter, rice cakes, soups and salads (properly stored).
I hope this offers some ideas . . .
Heather said,
January 12, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Hi- my church is doing the daniel fast this month ..I am 20 wks pregnant. Is this a safe fast or should I modify it? I am concerned about meeting my protein needs.
Susan Gregory said,
January 13, 2009 at 9:42 pm
Hi Heather,
Yes, you should modify the fast to meet the special needs you have right now. The Daniel Fast is very healthy so when you add an appropriate amount of fish, chicken and cheese, you should be in great shape. Be sure to check the dietary change with your health professional!
Be blessed!
Amy Payne said,
January 16, 2009 at 9:23 am
I feel so blessed to have an opportunity to do my fast. I read a lot of differant web pages and most of the foods to avoid and to eat are the same. But I read in a book that chicken broth was okay. I see that you say otherwise and I tend to agree with you. I am on my 13th day of a 40 day fast, and I was drinking chicken broth when I read on your page that you can not. I dumped it out.
Last night I also ate and egg. I looked at my “foods to avoid” and I didnt see egg on it. I understand now that we can not eat egg. I dont know what I was thinking. But I feel terrible abut this. My heart was not trying to get away with something but I still did something I wasnt supposed to do.
Do I need to start my fast over? I know I am hard on myself and I feel the enemy would like me to feel like I failed but do you think I did?
Carmen Baez said,
January 27, 2009 at 7:49 am
Hello Susan,
I just want to congratulate you on keeping up with all these emails and questions! Your awesome! And I want to say, I’m SOOOO EXCITED to see how many pepple are wanting to draw closer to God! It makes me so happy to know there are so many people thirsty and hungry NO JUST FOR FOOD, but for the FOOD and WATER OF LIFE, JESUS CHRIST!!! May the Lord Help and Strengthen us all in this time of Fast… Love you all!!!
Susan Gregory said,
January 27, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Thanks for your kind word, Carmen. I am working on a backlog of 100+ today. I hope to make a big dent in them.
The Lord has blessed me with this ministry. I am so thankful and I love serving Him in this way.
God bless you, dear one. I hope the very best for you on your Daniel Fast.
Anelise said,
March 23, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Hi Susan!
First of all thanks for all the messages and advice; that really helps the process. I have been on the fast for a little over 2 weeks now. However, this weekend I was cooking for a large event, and I was so tired that I didn’t realize it when I ate one of the canapés I was preparing… the habit of tasting while cooking got the best of me. I prayed and moved on. But today I had an emergency shift to do as I was on call and had no time to eat or prepare food. I decided to go without it until I got home in the evening, but during the day my blood sugar dropped and I nearly fainted, so I had to eat what was available here… Now I am feeling better from the faintiness, but guilty, ashamed, and bloated. What should I do?
Susan Gregory said,
March 24, 2009 at 5:43 pm
Hi Anelise,
Your heart for God and wanting to comply with the Daniel Fast Guidelines is clear. But you are fine and I hope you can move on and just continue on the fast. It seems that you had circumstances come up, rather than making a decision to break the fast for “soulish” reasons. So go the Lord, tell Him what happened and that you plan to go on.
You might also want to make some plans for when you might have another emergency shift. Keep some apples, walnuts (or other nuts), and dried fruit on hand so you can be prepared.
Thanks for your question. I know others find themselves going off the fast and needing to repent (change) and get back on track . . . just like we do in life!
Stacy said,
April 21, 2009 at 4:38 pm
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SITE…most of all thank you for the cookbook…I love it. I have co-workers hooked on the dried fruit bars!
Since doing the fast in January….mind you, only did it for a week (because of church’s solemn assembly) I have not been able to: eat meat (which is not that unusual, I constantly vascillated on that)…eat eggs (unless organic), occassionally eat dessert (I use to constantly crave sweets), drink coffee (loved the stuff, now can’t tolerate the taste).
So again…thank you so much, you really helped to clarify a lot of things. Oh by the way, I LOVE LOVE LOVE Bragg’s Amino Acids….it is so much better than soy sauce! I find myself liking the drippings from the bottle…LOL, said I know!
Susan Gregory said,
May 2, 2009 at 9:57 am
Hi Stacy,
Thank you so much for your kind comments about the Daniel Fast Cookbooks and the blog. I really appreciate your positive response and for taking the time to write.
The Lord gave me this ministry in December 2007 and since then I see so much His move as more and more of His people discover the power of the Daniel Fast. First, there are the spiritual benefits of drawing closer to the Lord, developing habits of regular prayer and study, and learning more about kingdom of God living. But I am also taken aback at the amazing benefits I hear from people regarding physical health. When so many people are overweight and racked with sickness and disease, it’s such good news that the Daniel Fast is so good for one’s health . . . and on a 21-Day fast, new and healthier habits can begin.
Thanks for sharing your experience. You are like many who have seen the wisdom in improved eating and felt the benefits in your health!
God bless you. May you continue to grow in the love and knowledge of our Amazing Father.
Stacie Bonner said,
May 1, 2009 at 8:46 am
Yes,I am going to start this Daniel fast soon and I would like to ask,why is fish not allowed on the Daniel fast? Fish is a natural food and many of Jesus’s followers were fishermen,please answer soon.
Susan Gregory said,
May 2, 2009 at 7:36 am
Hi Stacie,
I can sure understand why you might question why fish is not allowed on the Daniel Fast. The reason it’s not included is because of Daniel’s fast as recorded in Daniel 1. We learn there that the prophet at only vegetables (which would have included fruits) and drank only water. So with these restrictions, the Daniel Fast is a plant-based diet which creates the boundaries for “restricting food for a spiritual purpose.”
I hope you have a very successful Daniel Fast.
Beatrice Mwangi said,
May 23, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Hi i am happy to have found this site.i started my 21 day fast last month but i broke it without knowing ie i ate nuts and some food had artificial sugars.at least i now know what to eat and what not to.but my prayers during the fast have been answered despite having not completed it.i am happy and happy to start it all over again.God Bless you for taking thet time to reply all the questions
Susan Gregory said,
May 24, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Hi Mwangi,
God is so good. Praise Him for answering your prayer.
By the way, nuts are allowed on the Daniel Fast, but you are correct about artificial flavorings and any chemicals. I encourage you to join the Daniel Fast mailing list by going to http://www.Daniel-Fast.com. Also, when you join, you will receive an immediate copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines to help you complete the fast successfully.
Be blessed!
Esther J White Magallon said,
June 5, 2009 at 4:07 pm
Hi, Where can I get a list of chemicals that go in food To Avoid them? I am no versed in this area. I see alot of words in ingredients and do not know what they are or what they mean? I know organic but I would like a more in depth list to educate myself. Also the Jewish Kosher Law….Where can I find information on that to learn more as well. Thank You, Esther