Fasting

Fasting is primarily the act of willingly abstaining from some or all food, drink, or both, for a period of time. Concerning that from which one fasts, and the period of fasting, a fast may be total or partial. It may be observed unbroken for many uninterrupted days, or be observed only for certain periods during the day, as is the Muslim practice during the holy month of Ramadan. Depending on the tradition, fasting practices may forbid sexual activity as well as food, in addition to refraining from eating certain types or groups of foods; for example, meat may be refrained from. Medical fasting can be a way to promote detoxification.