Paleo Diet and Paleolithic Diet Questions & Answers

Question

0

I'm hypoglycemia and currently breastfeeding my seven month old daughter. I've never fasted before. I'm quite religious and believe in God an all he's done for me, my family, my life. I feel he's telling me its time to put actions behind my faith. He sent me a word through someone close to me. Im concerned because i have low blood sugar and are a little concerned that fastinf for three days will cause me health issues and could also dry up my milk supply. Any suggestions?

For more Paleo hacks: http://paleohacks.com/questions/3469/fasting-and-blood-sugar#ixzz1ijJEhCkP

flag	asked Jan 7 2012 at 1:01 Katrina 17●1

2

Breastfeeding and pregnant women have always been excused from fasting in every major religion. Do a good deed for a neighbor instead. – Dragonfly Jan 7 2012 at 1:36

1

Man this sure is a tricky topic, seems to be more of a theological one than anything nutritional. But as a Christian, I would say make sure that your interpretation of His will is correct. Pray for reassurance as to what His will really is. As for the physiological effects... Fasting while breastfeeding could definitely have some pretty negative effects, I'm not sure exactly, but I imagine a drop in milk supply at least. Good luck either way! – Drew aka CrossFit Junkie Jan 7 2012 at 1:38

1

Also, fasting, as I understand it, isn't so much for God, but more for our own benefit. The purpose in fasting is not about giving up food; it is about removing the obstacles that get in the way of fully focusing on Him. You could do this in other ways, such as find an hour when you can slip away and have quiet, and spend it alone reading some book in the Bible that you feel you need to read. – Drew aka CrossFit Junkie Jan 7 2012 at 1:45

If you believe that god told you to fast, then what are you worried about? – Warren D Jan 8 2012 at 11:28

Sigrid · Answer 1 · 2012-01-07 01:17:25Z UTC

I think there are many other ways of putting actions behind your faith. Fasting will impact your milk supply and your daughter is still so little and needs it. It must have been a misunderstanding - I don't think a benevolent deity would ask for this kind of sacrifice. Could you do some volunteer work instead to express your gratitude?

I'm_with_Raquel · Answer 2 · 2012-01-07 01:09:09Z UTC

5

I don't think it makes sense to fast when you're breastfeeding. Your child doesn't need to fast at this stage. Please think of her.

answered Jan 7 2012 at 1:09

I'm_with_Raquel
1,289●1●10

AlohaSpeck · Answer 3 · 2012-01-07 03:28:09Z UTC

Katrina, this is something quite close to my heart so may I ask you something?

Have you and your friend spoken to your pastor about this?
Does the Bible teach that God gives us a word through other people?
What is the Biblical picture of fasting, and its purposes?
Have you spent time in prayer and Bible study about this?

I hope I have not been to forward with this, but I feel you need to take the person who gave you this word and speak to your pastor about all of this before you do anything. I think this is of the up most importance.

Jessica G · Answer 4 · 2012-01-07 04:59:08Z UTC

Here's a resource on the very topic from a well-respected breastfeeding website:

http://www.kellymom.com/nutrition/mom/fasting.html

My concern would be that fasting that long would put you in a state of detoxification. I've read plenty of advice against detoxing while nursing because the toxins could be released into your milk, which your baby would then ingest.

Heidi · Answer 5 · 2012-01-07 03:31:40Z UTC

What type of fast are you planning to do? I would strongly encourage you to rethink and repray about a fast that involves no food or drink for three days. I'm not sure you could even make it if you experience regular hypoglycemia. And it would definitely affect your ability to feed and care for your baby. I can't imagine this is what God wants of you.

You may be able to participate in a fast, however, that involves eliminating certain foods and spending the three days in a prayerful attitude. You may also be able to participate in a fast that involves no eating during the day but you are allowed a meal at sundown and sunup (and water to drink during the day).

Brian · Answer 6 · 2012-01-07 12:55:21Z UTC

1

Another case of irrationality driven by religion. i suggest you feed yourself and your child Katrina.

answered Jan 7 2012 at 12:55

Brian
59●1

	I agree. breast feeding mothers should not fast period. – Sue Jan 7 2012 at 13:13
	But, that's not for any of us to judge on her behalf. She's asking a question based on her beliefs and I believe that's the context we should be answering with when we choose to answer. – Deborah105 Jan 7 2012 at 15:09
	When someone's belief is harmful to an infant then you definitely judge. – Sue Jan 7 2012 at 23:37

Fasting & low blood sugar

6 Answers