June 2015 Moms

Question about fasting.

so my husband and I are on staff at a church and every January the church takes part in a 21 day fast to start off the new year. (Obviously it's optional but it's a good time to do it because you have so much support.) It isn't a total fast, it's the Daniel Plan which is basically cutting out all sugar, refined and processed foods, meats, dairy and only drinking water.

Last time I was pregnant during the fast I just chose not to participate, but this time I'm researching whether or not I could participate, even if I had to modify it a bit.

I mean over all it truly is an extremely healthy option and, as long as I was getting enough protein I would assume that there would only be positives to doing it. I know a lot of women who are vegan or paleo who have been pregnant and they kept their diet the same so I think, if I did it the right way, it actually could be a really great lifestyle change. My main concern is just that some of the foods that are protein rich and full of good fats (to keep both me and baby nourished and full of energy) are kind of expensive (like nuts and organic substitutes) and I just don't know if we can afford to keep enough of those things in the house to appease my ravenous pregnant woman appetite.

Has anyone had any experience with this? I have considered doing the exact plan, but adding in small portions of poultry/dairy here and there (organic greek yogurt is a staple for me during pregnancy because of yeast infections and chicken is like a lifeline for me too. Lol)

I have an appointment with my midwife today so I will probably ask her her thoughts and let her overlook the list of foods to eat and foods to avoid. But I also wanted to ask you ladies if you have personal insight on this.

Thanks!

Re: Question about fasting.

  • Typically pregnancy isn't the right time to go all out on a diet change. Making minimal changes to your eating habits, like cutting out junk food and eating more fruits and vegetables are usually ok, but an all out diet change would be concerning to me. I'd definitely consult your doctor/midwife to see what he/she things. 

    Just make sure that you are getting enough protein, healthy fats, servings of fruits and vegetables, and eating the appropriate amount of calories per day. 
    --Amanda--
    BabyFruit Ticker
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  • Katerina&BabyKaterina&Baby member
    edited December 2014
    Obviously talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian but I don't see a problem with this as long as you're careful to balance your protein/carbs/fats and getting enough calories (which means that meal planning is essential - you're going to want to look at your food intake in terms of the entire day, not just on a per-meal basis to make sure it is balanced). You're probably going to want to snack on fruit (apples, pears, and berries are personal favs) or veggies with hummus (like baby carrots or red bell peppers) every 2-3 hours to keep your energy up and because it's frankly pretty challenging to eat enough calories when you are eating extremely well. Lentil soup is a great option and one of my favorite "under 5 minute meals" is just heating up black beans and mixing it with guacamole and brown rice (beans + brown rice = complete protein). Stuffed peppers are also awesome (I prefer red bell peppers). For breakfast, take a look at overnight oat recipes online (you can soak your oats in water overnight since almond milk might not be your jam and then mix in some chopped nuts and berries when you're ready to eat). Good luck!
  • We also do a 21 day fast at the beginning of the year (Daniel fast). I am going to do it from 6am-6pm everyday and then eat sensibly/healthy dinner (nothing fried or junk etc.) My opinion it's beneficial but I would ask your midwife or a Dr. like you said and if you feel up for it after they give the go ahead I'd say go for it. You are correct about it getting expensive though. It was always expensive when I wasn't pg so I can imagine now :)
    Great advice/ideas @katerina&Baby !
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    IAmPregnant Ticker
  • Thank you all for your advice and thoughts:) I talked to my midwife and she said basically what the two PP's said... As long as I'm not opposed to modifying and being sure to eat many small meals throughout the day, full of good fats like avocado and nuts I should be alright to do the fast! I will probably keep chicken and turkey as a staple in my diet from the get go. Thanks y'all! :)
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