Why No Herbal Tea or 100% Juice!
One of the most frequently asked questions I receive about the Daniel Fast concerns herbal tea. People have a hard time understanding why they can’t have it on the fast, especially if it’s caffeine-free and organic. The same question is asked about fruit and vegetable juice.
The answer is really quite simple and it’s found in Daniel 1:12 where the Prophet’s words are recorded:
“Please test your servants for ten days, and let them give us vegetables to eat and water to drink.”
This is the anchor text that says we drink only water on the Daniel Fast. Tea and juice aren’t off the list because they are bad for you. They are off the list because there is no room for juice or tea in “drink only water.”
I hope this helps solve some of the confusion as to why no other beverages are allowed on the Daniel Fast. When you think “beverage” during the Daniel Fast, you think “water.”
Now, let’s move to a little bit of a complicated matter, and that has to do with “juiced fruit and vegetables” that are allowed on the Daniel Fast. The reason they are listed is because many people have meals of juiced produce. It’s not a beverage . . . it’s a meal. One woman wrote to me today and told me she uses juiced meals when she’s traveling and at work. But she also accompanies the juiced meal with a beverage . . . which is filtered water. So if you are making meal replacements by juicing fruits and vegetables, then they would be acceptable. It’s a fine line. Juice as a beverage is not allowed . . . liquid meals like smoothies and other plant-based protein drinks are okay.
Water has many benefits . . . including thwarting hunger, helping with detox headaches and cleansing the body. The average adult should drink at least 1/2 gallon of filtered water every day. If this is a new practice for you, you will be very surprised by the benefits you experience.
is honey allowed on the daniel-fast/
Hi Ellen,
There are no sweeteners allowed on the fast (natural or artificial). While all foods on the Daniel Fast are natural . . . not all natural foods are acceptable. Natural sweeteners such as honey for example is one of those, although natural it is still a sweetener and to be avoided. Be Blessed!
Hi. My name is Tammy and I have a question concerning a particular herbal tea called Everyday Detox. It stimulates the liver’s natural detoxification process and helps to support the liver during a fast as so many toxins are filtered through it. I am not advocating it as a replacement for water. I love water, drink lots of it and mostly drink only water when I am not fasting. Since certain foods not included in the Daniel fast are allowed for individuals with health issues, would not an herbal tea that supports the liver be acceptable once or twice a day during this fast? Interested in your thoughts. Thank you, by the way, for promoting fasting and having this helpful website.
Hi Tammy,
The Daniel Fast is a natural detox for the body. Water is the only drinking beverage allowed on the fast, so Everyday Detox tea would not be allowed as a beverage such as other herbal tea’s would not (which some also use for similar health purposes as you have described). However, if Everyday Detox is needed for medicinal reasons then do continue to follow your Health Care Providers instructions. I hope this helps, Be Blessed on your Journey!
Hi my name is erica, I’ve been on the fast for two days and I would like to no if its ok to put a little lemon juice from concentrate in my water would be ok?
Hi Erica,
A lemon slice or a splash of lemon juice is fine. But, concentrated juice may very well have ingredients not allowed, so read the Ingredients list first. Be Blessed!
Iam new in this fast. i did other ones before but i was not very please with the results.
i will like to know if alkaline water is ok and lentils soup too. thanks
Hi Terry,
Alkaline water is the best option when possible. And lentile soup is a great soup for the Daniel Fast. Be Blessed!
I am on day five of the Daniel fast, and I feel great. I have experienced some leg cramps, but I assume I am ridding toxins in my body. Am regularly conscientious about most food I eat. Before I go to bed, I drink alkaline water a little fresh lemon and fresh ginger. It is refreshing and cleans my palate. I have been drinking alkaline water for about 3 years and I do feel so much healthier. I have done the master cleanse for years, but this time I wanted to change and eat vegan style or honestly say “I wanted food.” Thank you and God Bless!
Hi, I’m curious to why some churches including mine would say we can have 100% fruit juices on the fast when it clearly states only water? I have been fasting a few days now and have only had water, however others are drinking soy or other milk alternative based drinks and fruit juices, smoothies and other things. Thank you for the information and confirming what I thought was correct. I’ll stick to the way I am doing it
Hi Ricky,
Some people are operating on partial or erroneous information, while others are modifying the fast for medical or personal reasons. We encourage everyone to let the Holy Spirit direct you in the details of your fast and let Him be your guide! Be Blessed on your Journey!
how do i unsubscribe? There’s no option when i click… i want to unsubscribe to these..
We don’t send the emails. They are generated by WordPress and managed only by the account holder (you in this case). Please read the post here to learn how to unsubscribe – http://danielfast.wordpress.com/2013/01/06/unfollow-or-unsubscribe-this-blog/ Be blessed!
Please help me understand something. The original Daniel diet was “vegetables to eat and water to drink”. We have added fruits, nuts and legumes to the “foods we can eat” category. What can we add to the “liquids we can drink” category? I was thinking infused water, such as infused with natural juice and herbal teas. Also, it would be nice to add “foods we can eat” that can be blended into a smoothie into our “liquids we can drink” category.
Hi Benjamin,
Here is a brief foundational overview of the Daniel Fast: The Daniel Fast is a type of fast based on the combined fasting/mourning experiences of the prophet along with typical Jewish fasting principles. Of which, Susan Gregory has spent years researching the Daniel Fast. The two foundational scriptures for the fast are: Daniel 1:12 “Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.” Pulse is food grown from seed . . . corn, potatoes, wheat, rice, fruit and the like are all considered grown from seed, (also Water only, no dairy/meat).
Dan. 10:3 – “I ate no pleasant or desirable food, nor did any meat or wine come into my mouth; and I did not anoint myself at all for the full three weeks”. Because of this, we eat no sweeteners of any kind, no deep fried foods and no fancy desserts. We also don’t use any stimulants such as caffeine or alcohol.
Finally, we look to the typical Jewish fasting principles. This primarily impacts leavening – so no yeast breads or foods with leavening are allowed. The only restriction on food preparation is no deep frying. Foods can be steamed, baked, broiled, boiled, and even a light stir fry is fine.
Water with a splash of lemon or a lemon slice is fine (or the likes), however there is a fine line. As long as you can in all honesty call it water, and it does not cross over into the juice or tea category, then that would be acceptable.
“Smoothies are allowed when used as a liquid meal”, when you drink it as a meal (meal replacement – and not as a snack, dessert or refreshment). However, smoothies can be a “grey area” ….. …. With the bulk of the smoothie being fruit and vegetables (blended) and a splash of unsweetened juice or plant based milks being added for consistency. With that said, all “unsweetened”, “additive free” juices and plant based milks (Almond, Rice, Soy, Coconut, etc.,) are fine on the fast for use in recipes and/or on cereal”, Not as a drinking beverage (water is the only beverage on the fast).
I do encourage you to go into deeper study about the Daniel Fast. Remember, we are not trying to reenact the prophet’s fast, but rather use the experiences to serve as guidelines for a partial fast that can be experienced by people today.
You will find a wealth of information about the Daniel Fast on this blog and at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com All the resources you need for a successful and biblical Daniel Fast are here. If you are interested in learning more about the fast, you might want to get a copy of The Daniel Fast where it goes into great depth about fasting and the Daniel Fast in particular. If you don’t already have one you can order a free copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines by going to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address, they will be emailed back to you. I hope this helps!
Hi Susan, I know that olive oil is the oil of choice, but there are so many health benefits to coconut oil and it is derived from a fruit if it would be considered ok? I use the organic 100% pure coconut oil. Gloria
Hi Gloria,
Yes, coconut oil is considered a quality oil and great for the fast. Be Blessed!
I’m on day 15 and feel that I’m doing quite well despite all the temptations. (I’m the only one in my family doing the fast). My biggest problem is finding some of the fruits I keep craving such as figs. I also found that fruits work very well to relieve sugar cravings. Thank you for your blog. The people on here provide great encouragement.
Thank you Mark for your post. Be Blessed on your Journey!
Thank you for the clarifications!
I am on 3 blood pressure medications a day,plus a diuretic. I am also overweight and I know weight loss will help my blood pressure and my achy knees. What is the prescribed way to get started on this fast, do I just start or do I need to ease my way into the food plan.
Hi Bonnie,
I encourage you to take a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines to your Health Care Provider and together make the required modifications (if any) to your fast. You should always follow your doctor’s orders, so continue with all medications. You can order a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines by going to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address, they will be emailed back to you. Be BLESSED on your Journey!
Hi Bonnie,
I encourage you to take a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines to your Health Care Provider and together make the required modifications (if any) to your fast. You should always follow your doctor’s orders, so continue with all medications. You can order a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines by going to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address, they will be emailed back to you. Be BLESSED on your Journey!
How about white rice?
Hi Mindy,
White rice is not allowed on the fast….Remember, you are looking to eat only “whole grains” while on the fast and white rice (aka sticky rice) is not a whole grain (it’s been stripped)…….Here is a snipit on White rice from an article on WebMD:
“White rice is created by removing the bran and germ portions of brown rice, a consequence of the refining process includes loss of fiber, vitamins, magnesium and other minerals, lignans, phytoestrogens, and phytic acid, many of which may be protective factors for diabetes risk.” “We believe replacing white rice and other refined grains with whole grains, including brown rice, would lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.” If you are interested in reading the whole article, here is the link http://diabetes.webmd.com/news/20100614/brown-rice-vs-white-rice-which-is-better I hope this information is helpful, Be Blessed on your journey!
Thank you Susan, and may God continue to bless you as you lift Him up to the world.
A couple of years ago I knew that I needed to do something about my weight and Daniel came to mind.
I did not understand fully what I should do so I kept searching and thinking about it.
Imagine my surprise and joy when I saw The Daniel Fast on the cover of Women”s World magazine(one of my favorites).
I immediately opened it and searched for scripture, did not find it, except in the article and the rest is history.
I am now on the second day of my fast and after reading the blogs I have to begin all over.
I entered the fast expecting to hear and experience a closer relationship with God, so I am going to do my best to be obedient and prayerful of the rules of the fast.
Thanks again,
Ann
Hi Ann,
Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words . . . it is our blessing to serve God by serving His people. Be blessed as you continue to grow in the love and grace of Jesus!
HI Susan,
I bought Soy Milk that is vanilla Flavoured, so I am wondering if that would be okay during the Daniel fast or not?
You can use unsweetened soy milk in recipes and on cereal (check the Ingredients list for sweeteners and additives). However the only beverage on the Daniel Fast is water (Daniel 1:12). Be Blessed!
pls clarify.ive always lookd at a fast as a ”no eat” maybe drink watyer only all day, but here i have to eat. but now other people say i shouldnt be eating @ all,the food that is on the list can only be eaten after i break the fast, meaning i should dru fast from 6am to 6pm(only drink water) then @ 6pm break my fast then i can now eat only the food on the list. then other people are eatying their breakfast lunch and supper everyday during the Daniel fast-they just dont eat anything no allowed on the list. now exactly which is the right way to fast with daniel’s fast? eat or dont eat @ all?
Dear Michelle,
There are three major kinds of fasting. An “absolute fast” is when no water or food is consumed. A “normal fast” is when only water is consumed and no food is eaten. A “partial fast” is when some foods are eaten and others are restricted. The Daniel Fast is a partial fast. That’s the fast taught here and in my book. Hundreds of thousands of men and women from all over the world use this method of fasting when they enter an extended period of prayer and fasting. It is practiced all day and night and usually for 21 days.
Another method of fasting is to not eat any food during daylight hours and eating only after the sun sets. But that is not the Daniel Fast. I hope this helps.
Be blessed.
how about 100 % Coconut water from ONE or ZICO ? are we allowed to have that as water ?
Hi Deb,
The only beverage on the Daniel Fast is water. You can use 100% juices (such as coconut water) and unsweetened plant-based milks that are free of man-made chemicals in recipes (and smoothie/meal replacements). However you can add lemon or mint sprigs to your water. Be blessed on your fast!
But if we add lemon or mint sprigs to our water it wouldn’t be pure water anymore. Isn’t it the same as we can’t drink fruit and vegetable juice? May I know why we can drink water with added lemon or mint sprigs but we can’t drink fruit or vegetable juice? Thank you
There is a fine line. As long as you can drink the beverage and still honestly call it water, then that would be acceptable. But if the beverage crosses over in the juice or tea realm, then it would not. It might seem like a fine line, but I think these kinds of issues mirror those we experience in our life of faith (the grey areas, that have no real clear lines). So ask the Holy Spirit for His direction, He is faithful! Be Blessed!
Thank you, thank you for providing such a wonderful site full of truth-based information. I appreciate the clarifications. I will be starting the Daniel Fast soon and I feel like I better prepared than I was before.
Be Blessed
Susan Gregory Before I start daniel fast on jan.11 2013 I had a bad bodyaches and bad fever, So let me know that I can fasting with fever.
Hi Jerome,
If your body is already fighting a bug of some sort, you may want to wait until you have recoved to begin your fast. I hope this helps!
I usually begin the day with 8 oz of warm water with a half lemon squeezed into it as it cuts the mucous in my sinuses. Can I continue doing this through my fasting time?
Because this is health related, I would encourage you to continue it. However, I encourage you first of all ask the Holy Spirit for His instruction…..als once you start seeing the health benefits of the fast, re-evaluate then if you need to continue. I hope this helps!
1. IF quality oil and potatoes are both okay, then how would a frenchfries violate the fast?
2. WHY are we ADDING “common jewish fasting practices” to what Daniel did, and calling it a Daniel Fast?
3. Drinking the rest of your liquid from your vegetable soup after you spooned thr solid parts is….? Okay or not??t
Hi Teriakin,
No deep fried foods are allowed on the Daniel Fast, however you can make baked “French fries.” Even better, use sweet potatoes for more nutrition.
Daniel’s fasts were few and we only have a few “clues” for the guidelines. I wrote a whole book about this and it’s too much to cover in a blog post, but after researching the prophet and his fasts, they are steeped in Jewish traditions.
The only beverage on the fast is water. Drinking soup doesn’t make the soup a beverage. It’s still soup so you are fine.
I hope this helps!
This may seem a bit technical, but can we assume that when the verse reads “vegetables to eat” that it would include fruits too? Aren’t we making an assumption there?
Hi Jeff,
The KJV says this: Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.
Pulse is food grown from seed or food that comes from the ground. Later translations reduced this to vegetables, but the Hebrew translates it as the KJV does.
I hope this helps.
I’m glad to see someone else that understand the Daniel Fast as I do. And your email was an amazing point about the can do an the cannot.
hi Susan
i have been reading your blog and it has been very inspiring. Thanks. i just want to know, is it ok to just have the veggies, by just cooking it or eating it raw (like the carrots). I do not have a permanent job, therefore buying some of the products is a “small” problem. Keeping it plain and simple is probably the best way. Thanks
Hi Nadia,
Yes, you can keep the variety of foods as simple as you feel led to, and as far as cooking or raw both are fine (just no deep frying). However, I encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit for His direction and what He has planned for your time of fasting to look like. He is faithful and will direct on the best plan He has for you during this time of seeking Him through fasting and prayer.
Here is a general list of the Daniel Fast allowed foods, (Remember, All foods must me Chemical additive free and sweetener free): All fruits, All vegetables, All whole grains, All whole grain flours (and pastas), All Nuts and seeds, All legumes, All quality oils. Beverages: Water only – spring water, distilled water or other pure waters, and yes, tap water is good, if that is all you have available. MISC Items: tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices. For a complete list you can order a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines by going to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address, they will be emailed back to you. I hope this helps, Be Blessed!
How can potatoes be included? They don not come from seeds. You plant a piece of the potato itself to grow potatoes.
In the Hebrew term for “pulse” the translation is “food grown from seed” which is not the science of literal seed, but rather food grown from the ground. So potatoes are fine. Also, to get technical – “After potato plants flower, some varieties produce small green fruits that resemble green cherry tomatoes, each containing up to 300 true seeds.”
I hope this helps the clarification. Be blessed on your fast.
Hi, someone said we can have baked fries, ans 100% juice,
is it true
Baked fries are allowed and you can use juice in recipes, but not as a beverage as the only beverage on the Daniel Fast is water.
I am starting the Daniel Fast December 1, 2012.
I have chosen to end the year (2012) with the Daniel’s Fast, but I have never done the Daniel’s Fast before. If anyone could give me some godly council in the proper way to execute this fast I would appreciate it.
1) Is Herbal Tea permitted?
2) Is SoBe, Zero Calorie, Life Water permitted?
3) is Propel Water permitted?
Hi Robin,
Water is the only drinking beverage on the fast, so no herbal teas. Flavored waters are allowed as long as all the ingredients comply with the Daniel Fast . . . here is the fine line. If you can in all honesty call the beverage water, then it’s allowed. Adding lemon slices or cucumber spears to a glass of water . . . that is definitely allowed. But today there is a whole new class of beverages that are called waters – but seem to push the envelope on the Daniel Fast. Read the ingredients and then put the question before the Holy Spirit. He will give you the answer about the product you are considering. I hope this helps!
I have type 2 diabeties and take medication .. I desire to go on the Daniel fast .. do you know of other diabetics who are successfully doing this?
Hi Brenda,
Men and women with insulin or Type 2 diabetes experience wonderful results on the Daniel Fast “if” they are wise about the foods they eat. Whole grain cereals and leafy green vegetables are packed with protein yet very low on the glycemic index. The same is true of legumes. Many people with Type 2 diabetes are able to balance their blood sugar levels with the food they eat and can soon eliminate or drastically reduce the meds they take. The same is true with insulin-dependent diabetics – often able to greatly reduce the amount of insulin necessary to balance their BS levels.
You will want to make sure to eat foods that are “low on the glycemic index” and not sugary fruits. Of course you want to take the advice of your health professional, And access your own knowledge. But you can get plenty of protein in other ways than nuts and peanut butter. Again, Whole grains, legumes and leafy green vegetables are excellent sources of protein. Also, you will want to eat complex carbohydrates rather than simple carbohydrates. They are processed very differently in the body. You need to stay away from simple carbohydrates.
- Some examples of healthy foods containing “Complex Carbohydrates”:
Spinach, Whole Barley, Grapefruit, Turnip Greens, Buckwheat flour, Apples, Lettuce, Prunes, Water Cress, Oat bran flour, Apricots, Dried, Zucchini, Oatmeal, Pears, Asparagus, Oat bran cereal, Plums, Artichokes, Muesli, Strawberries, Okra, Wild rice, Oranges, Cabbage, Brown rice, Yams, Celery, Multi-grains, Carrots, Cucumbers, Pinto beans, Potatoes, Dill Pickles, low fat Soybeans, Radishes, Lentils, Broccoli, Navy beans, Garbanzo beans, Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower, Kidney beans, Eggplant, Soy milk, Lentils, Onions, Whole meal spelt flour, Split peas.
- Some examples of foods to Avoid containing “simple carbohydrates”: All of which are also NOT allowed on the fast. (Simple carbohydrates are more refined, are usually found in foods with fewer nutrients, and tend to be less satisfying and more fattening):Table sugar, Corn syrup, Fruit juice, Candy, Cake, Bread made with white flour, Pasta made with white flour, Soda pop, such as Coke®, Pepsi®, Mountain Dew®, etc., Candy, All baked goods made with white flour, Most packaged cereals.
I encourage you to take this information along with a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines to your Health Care Provider and together make the required modifications if any to your fast. You can order a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines by going to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address, they will be emailed back to you. I hope this helps, Be Blessed on your Journey!
Thank you so much. You’ve been so helpful. I will certainly take the advice given and pray for a successful Daniel fast. This is just wonderful! As you suggested, I’m sending for a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines. May the Lord God bless you!
I tried the Daniel Fast last year and ended up stopping after a few days. I would really like to try it again. I had much trouble with figuring out foods that would work for me.
I am insulin resistant which is similar to Diabetes 2 and do much better on a diet that is gluten free. My doctors have encouraged me to eat high protein.
1. Almond milk and V8 Fusion Light are staples at our house and something I need to help take large pills.
2. Since I couldn’t eat meat, I found myself going to the pantry frequently for something to eat. Gluten free whole grain items are still higher in carbs than non gluten free. I found myself in trouble a couple days in and had to go off.
3. There’s information out there on the interent suggesting not following the diet as per Daniel is rebelling against God. Yes, I felt like a failure. Not sure I felt like I was sinning. One thing is, I felt better physically after going back to meat protein.
I need to get serious with God this year. I need some answers in my life. I need healing in my body. I’m going to try the Daniel Fast again. I’m very nervous about it. Really hoping I can have willpower and wisdom in choosing appropriate foods. At this time, I will be taking almond milk with pills because there is no way I can take them with water due to their size and that they dissolve in mouth fast.
I don’t want to be legalistic. I want to be real and come to God during this time as I am.
Open your heart to your faithful God. Let Him replace your stony heart with His heart of flesh . . . and then walk in His ways.
He is in you now . . . give Him full reign.
Be blessed . . .
I dont have the means to filter my water-does that matter?
Hi Phillip,
Not a problem! Filtered water (is the best), but then spring water, distilled water and other pure waters are preferred. However, tap water is fine when that is all you have available. I hope this helps, Be Blessed on your Fast!
Hello, I just started the Daniel fast and wanted to know if carbonated water is allowed and crystal light.
Hi Selena,
Yes, when natural. It’s all about the ingredients, Perrier is a brand of bottled mineral water I can recommend that is naturally carbonated. Due to artificial sweeteners and additives in Crystal light, it is to be avoided. Try some lemon slices or frozen berries in your water. I hope this helps!
my head is pounding and it is only my first day….I have had nothing but water to drink but, this has not helped….I feel very sick to my stomach.
Hi Mary,
Drink Lots of Water! Your body is going through the detox process from caffeine, sugar and chemicals. These symptoms (headaches, fatigue, cramps, joint pain to name a few) will pass in a few days (3-7) or more. The more extreme the build up of the toxins in your body, the more extreme your symptoms and length of time to complete your detox. Meanwhile, flushing your system with water will ease your discomfort and speed up the detox process, if unbearable, do take some medication to help ease the discomfort…. As a general guideline, your body needs half its body weight in ounces of water per day, ie: 160lbs = 80 oz. of water daily. Add to that amount if you are experiencing any extreme conditions such as exposure to warm weather, cold weather, exercise or Detox. Be Blessed in your Fast!
Hi You mentioned some symptoms of detox, I was wondering if restless legs would also be one?
I have had aches from the lower back pelvis and down my legs which also cramp, but also feel like i cant keep them in one position always needing to move. This has kept me up for 3 nights now as its magnified when i go to bed – unbearable and only relieved by taking paracetamol. This is my second time doing the fast and the same thing happened last time (starting on day 3). I thought that perhaps I may be low in iron or magnesium but now I’m not sure. Has anyone else suffered these symptoms?
Hi Josie,
I have heard of mild cases of restless legs during the detox phase. However, your restless legs sounds a bit extreme for detox, and the very usage of the word “unbearable” is a sign that you should have this checked out.
Common Detox Symptoms:
Detox can create a number of symptoms in your body as your body goes through the process of purifying itself and eliminating toxins. Some common detox symptoms include:
• headaches •lethargy •temporary muscle aches •mucus or other discharge •a coated, pasty tongue •flu-like symptoms •irritability •difficulty sleeping •weakness •cravings •nausea •constipation •diarrhea
To Read more: http://www.naturaltherapypages.com.au/article/Detox_Symptoms#ixzz2KtuxjW2Q I hope this helps!
The thing I don’t understand is combining two different fasts that are presented in Daniel. When only water and vegetables are mentioned in Daniel, it was a 10 day fast and not a 21 day fast. If anything but water is out then why is anything but vegetables in?
First thing is that the Daniel Fast – Is a type of fast based on the “combined fasting experiences of the prophet” along with typical Jewish fasting principles. We are not trying to reenact the prophet’s fast, but rather use the experiences to serve as guidelines for a partial fast that can be experienced by people today. The two foundational scriptures for the fast are Daniel 1:12 says, “Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.” Pulse is food grown from seed . . . corn, potatoes, rice and the like are all considered grown from seed.
Dan. 10:3 – I ate no pleasant or desirable food, nor did any meat or wine come into my mouth; and I did not anoint myself at all for the full three weeks (Daniel was mourning. The custom in that time was that men would wear oils and perfumes in their hair. But since Daniel was mourning, this was not appropriate and therefore he was in a simple and plain dress and hygiene). Because of this, we eat no sweeteners of any kind, no deep fried foods and no fancy desserts. We also don’t use any stimulants such as caffeine or alcohol.
I encourage you to continue to study the information on this blog and my site at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com as there is a wealth of information about the Daniel Fast, you can also enter your email address to receive a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines. I hope this helps, Be Blessed on Your Fast!
Can you drink Naked Juices?
Hi Stephanie,
Water is the only drinking beverage on the fast. Unsweetened additive free juices are fine for use in recipes. I hope this helps!
Thanks for the response, I have a follow question. Can you provide clarity on why you can eat fruits but can’t juice them to drink?
One of the two foundational scriptures for the fast is Daniel 1:12 says, “Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and Water to drink.” Pulse is food grown from seed . . . corn, potatoes, rice and the like are all considered grown from seed. This is why water is the only drinking beverage on the fast. I hope this helps!
I am a pastor, my church is declining in members as well as visitors. I am searching for answers. As I search my soul and my behavior, I am praying that God will show me the way.
The Daniel Fast was placed in my spirit. I am praying that God will show me the way, and what to do.
My spirit is distrubed to the point that I know that it is something I am missing in my ministry as I try to lead God’s people.
Please help me with this as I continue to pray and ask God for his love and guidance.
Keep helping poor people like me.
Be blessed of the Lord.
Clara
Good Morning dear Pastor,
I encourage you that you are going in the right direction and to keep on going until you receive new direction from the Holy Spirit! This is The time for you to draw yourself away from the chatter of the world and close yourself up with the Lord, so that you Can hear all the Holy Spirit is saying to you, and all He is leading you into. He is Faithful… and Loves when His people press into seeking Him and are aggressive about it! So get aggressive, be like King David and be delirious in your pursuit, worship and adoration of the Living God! He Is Faithful, He will lead you and guide you on the very best path for you and His church, Because… of His great love for you. Prov. 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He Will direct your paths”..
Encourage yourself in the Faithfulness of the Holy Spirits work in your life, start by declaring the word God over you….It Is Written Revelation 12:11 “And I have defeated him (the enemy) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of my testimony……” “If God be for me, Who can be against me? …..No weapon formed against me can prosper, and every tongue that rises in judgment against me, God will condemn, This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and my righteousness is from the LORD! I think you get the idea, speak the word over you, your family and your church body.
Here is a word that a trusted pastor recently shared, and I think will be a strength and encouragement to you too!
“Look Ahead – Get Ready – Expect Movement”- Recently, the Lord spoke to my heart and said, “This is a time for expansion. I am about to move My people into a new experience with My presence. I need them to be mobile and ready to move with Me. The tent of My presence is expanding. Pull up the tent pegs that lie before you, but leave the tent pegs of your history intact. My expansion plan includes both your past and your future. Look ahead. Get ready. Expect movement. Expansion in all things is upon you!”
Be encouraged in this pastor….Jesus is Coming, and His return is sooner than we think! In these last of the last days the Spirit of God is on the move in His Church across this world stirring us up with an expectation and an excitement like never before. He is raising up an army of believers who will strip off everything of this world that hinders (or slows down) and move out with the Holy Spirit to take the land….will you and your church be in the first, the second or third wave of this great army? Let’s go hard after God and be right in the middle of All He is wanting to do in us and through us! Be Blessed on your Journey!
I may have missed it, but what’s your take on fruit smoothies… specifically simple ice and fruit blends?
Hi Nate,
Yes, smoothies are allowed on the fast when made as a meal replacement (since they are considered a “liquid meal” rather than a beverage). A Daniel Fast “smoothie” is simply, blended fruits, vegetables, if needed a splash of unsweetened plant-based milk (Soy, Almond, Rice, Coconut, etc.) or a splash of Natural, unsweetened juices. Also, if additional protein is needed, you can add in a plant based, chemical and sweetener free protein. I hope this helps, Be Blessed on your Fast!
what kind of drink we are having a feast at our church.. I’m making lemon drink what do you sthink
Hi Marie,
If this is a Daniel Fast Feast at your church, then I would deffinately suggest water with ice and lemons in it. I hope this helps!
I have only read some of these post so maybe you already covered it but in the verses it says Daniel only ate vegetables and drink water. If he only drank water and ate vegetables why do we have a list of food, why are we not only eating vegetables? Thanks
Hi Emily,
The Daniel Fast is totally plant-based. The two foundational scriptures for the fast are Daniel 1:12 says, “Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.” Pulse is food grown from seed . . . corn, potatoes, rice and the like are all considered grown from seed.
Dan. 10:3 – I ate no pleasant or desirable food, nor did any meat or wine come into my mouth; and I did not anoint myself at all for the full three weeks (Daniel was mourning. The custom in that time was that men would wear oils and perfumes in their hair. But since Daniel was mourning, this was not appropriate and therefor he was in a simple and plain dress and hygiene). Because of this, we eat no sweeteners of any kind, no deep fried foods and no fancy desserts. We also don’t use any stimulants such as caffeine or alcohol.
I encourage you to continue to study the information on this blog and my site at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com as there is a wealth of information about the Daniel Fast.
You can also go to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address to receive a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines. I hope this helps!
I am planning to start my first Daniel Fast with a friend and we are looking to have a menu planning date soon. I was interested in your thoughts around a blended veggie drink, containing celery, kale, spinach, banana and a bit of water. Throw it in your blender and you have a green liquid breakfast. What are your thoughts on this?
Hi Brandy,
Sounds like a great meal plan!
I am on day 3 of the fast and am having detox symptoms (fatigue, back ache, headache). I also have migraines and cluster headaches normally. I was on day 22 of a series of cluster headaches when I started. Since starting the fast, I have not taken any pain medication but it is getting difficult to function. Is it ok to take prescribed pain medication while on the fast?
Hi Sherri,
Drink Lots of Water! These are symptoms of withdrawals (headaches, fatigue, cramps, joint pain to name a few) your body going through detox from caffeine, sugar or chemicals. These symptoms will pass in a few days (3-7) Meanwhile, flushing your system with water will ease your discomfort and speed up the detox process. As a general guideline, your body needs half its body weight in ounces of water per day, ie: 160lbs = 80 oz. of water daily. Add to that amount if you are experiencing any extreme conditions such as exposure to warm weather, cold weather, exercise or Detox.
If you have the option of medication that is free of sweeteners or man-made chemicals all the better, so yes, medications are allowed on the Daniel Fast.
Be Blessed on your fast!
I was not aware that the Daniel fast could cause detox symptoms. I don’t think it ever occurred to anyone at my church who is participating. Thank you for the added information. I will pass it on.
Hello. Is filtered water from my refrigerator okay for the Daniel Fast? Thanks.
Hi Milisha,
You need to check what type of water filtration system you have in your refrigerator. Filters vary in the things that they target to filter out. Your owners manual will have information on the type filtration system and what it filters out, also you may have the option to change out the filter with a more selective filter. I hope this helps.
Be Blessed!
Hello. I have the PureSource NGRG-2000 Ice and Water Filter System with the RG-100 cartridge. Will this work? Thanks.
Hi Milisha,
If you have your product manual, look through that to see what your system filters out there should be a list of what is targeted. If this information is not listed there then look for a product customer service number to call to get find this out.
Blessings to you!
I don’t understand this. Why would “filtered” water be an issue at all? What might be filtered out that would make the water unacceptable to drink, and why would filtering anything out of it be a problem?
Thanks!
Hi Laura,
The main reason I always suggest filtered water is because of safety and not necessarily complying with the fast – although one could argue that the chemicals added to metro water systems would not be allowed.
Research shows that many municiple water systems have high levels of chemicals and contaminants in the drinking water. When individuals start to consume more water than they typically do (as on the Daniel Fast) it can affect their health. Thus, using a home filter is suggested but not required.
By the way, you can test your city water by going to http://www.ewg.org/tap-water/home
I hope this helps.
Hello Ms. Susan, first let me start off encouraging you to continue to let the Holy Spirit lead you to impart into God’s people according to His Will and His Way. Thank God for one of his Kingdom minded Servant that’s being effective in the kingdom of God and being about your Heavenly Father’s business. I thank you very, very much for the wisdom and knowledge that has been imparted into you to be a blessing to us. So I Thank Jesus for You again. I will keep you up in prayer as you continue to journey this walk of Faith.
God Bless You & Love You my Sister
10 days of vegetable and water and 21 days with no wine is what I read
It seems that a principle that was for 10 days has been stretched to make it a 21 day plan or have I misunderstood something?
Also, can you clarify the “typical Jewish fasting principles” add-on? Is that just the reference to using leven, thus no yeast to be eaten?
Hi Ann,
The Daniel Fast is based on Daniel 1, Daniel 10 and typical Jewish fasting principles. It is not “eating as Daniel ate” or following just one of the references. It’s a combination. Also, many people use the Daniel Fast for their method of a 21-day fast, but it’s not critical to fast for 21 days. I have used the fast for as few as 9 days and for as many as 50.
The primary issue with typical Jewish fasting principles is leavening. However, in my research I access information from rabbis and Jewish teachings.
Be blessed!
My husband and I are on our 3rd day of the Daniel Fast, and we are doing fine. I am so glad I found this site, and have the opportunty of doing this fast, and getting more into GOD’s word. Keep us in your prayers.
I have so enjoyed reading these blogs. It’s very encouraging and enlightening. My husband and I have been on a 3 day “water only” fast and going into the daniel fast tomorrow for the remainder of 21 days. Thank you and God Bless.
I needed to read your encouraging posting. My husband and I are on day 1of 3 water fast and the Daniel Fast for the remainder of the 21 days. Our children started the Daniel Fast today. I like how upbeat you are in your post.
Hi Susan,
Let me first say that this blog has been so helpful. This is my first time doing a “Daniel” fast. I’m hooking up with Jentezen Franklin’s 21 day fast. Is it ok to have rice cakes? What about different seasonings (like salt,pepper,garlic, etc)? What about butter/margarine?
Thanks for your dedication and help.
Hi Alicia,
Thanks for the kind words about the blog. My hope is to serve God by serving His children.
Rice cakes are a great crunchy snack and an excellent option rather than chips. Again, you need to READ THE LABEL to see the ingredients. I buy rice cakes made from brown rice and water and find them in the health food section of my supermarket. Seasonings are fine, but again, READ THE LABEL as some manufacturers add chemicals and sweeteners to blends. No butter (this is a plant-based eating plan) and no margarine as it’s a highly processed food with chemicals added. Try to use olive oil instead.
Be blessed!
There were 2 different Daniel fasts–the 10 day fast and the 21day fast. For the 21 day fast, it does not say he had only water. It just says he had no wine. So it really depends on which fast you are referring to.
Tamara,
The Daniel Fast is based on the fasting experiences of the prophet as recorded in Daniel 1 and in Daniel 10 along with typical Jewish fasting principles. There are not two different fasts when we talk about the Daniel Fast that so many people are using today and that this blog is about.
The fasts you mentioned might be an “off shoot” of the Daniel Fast, but two different types of fasts with different guidelines is a whole other ballgame.
What an amazing help this site is. I’ve been on the fast just 2 days now and am really looking for a breakthrough in my marriage and the salvation of my husband. Anyway, my question is, can we drink carbonated water. God bless you Susan as you continue to guide in the ways of righteousness.
Do you know if it is common to get some chest comgestion in the beginning of the Daniel’s Fast?
That is not a common detox symptom. I wonder if it’s actually something else . . .
The detox symptoms for the Daniel Fast are headaches, leg cramps, back aches, fatigue and lethergy. But I have never heard of congestion.