BS"D
Everyone has their tricks. But on this upcoming long, hot, summer fast day we can use all the tricks available.
Tomorrow is Shiva-Asar B’Tammuz, a fast day. And while we properly mourn the sad history of this day and don’t eat or drink anything to commemorate the sadness, it is important to stay safe.
Most of us have at least a bit of extra fat on our waistline to hold us out if we run out of fuel, but the main concern for everyone is hydration.
Thirst is the worst! So let's prepare right now before the fast to thoroughly hydrate our body and be geared up to have a meaningful day without experiencing intense thirst.
Contrary to popular belief, water is not enough to keep us hydrated!
The key is electrolytes. These are minerals that our bodies need to survive and to function, from the pumping of our hearts to the contracting and usage of our muscles.
To make sure we have a proper electrolyte balance before the fast and after, stock up on electrolyte drinks and foods. Ideally it would be great to start a few days before the fast. Every morning for a few days before the fast, focus on drinking a couple of tall glasses of water with electrolytes added. The drink could be filtered water with an added pinch of sea salt, which has minerals. A very tiny pinch of baking soda would work as well. Or it can be straight or diluted coconut water. It could also be an herbal infusion. Those are excellent. My best fasts are when I drink herbal infusions beforehand. (I will teach you how to make them one day iyH).
The electrolytes added to water or found in fruit or herbal drinks are better than plain water as instead of the water just going right through you, it will distribute the minerals where they are needed and benefit you much more.
Here is a recipe for a homemade electrolyte drink. I got this from a website called dontmesswithmama.com. I have made very similar ones before, so I am trusting this one is good. Here goes:
Ingredients:
½ cup fresh orange juice
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups water
2 tbsp organic raw honey or organic maple syrup
⅛ tsp Himalayan Pink salt (she writes here that Himalayan salt has 84 trace minerals--impressive!)
Directions:
1. Put all ingredients in a blender and blend well. (I just mixed very well)
2. Store in Mason jars in the fridge.
Slices of watermelon or juicy grapes are known to help with the fast as well. Avoid too much dry and salty, processed foods before the fast. These can dehydrate you.
Okay, everyone! Eat well, drink well, fast well, and may we merit the rebuilding of our holy Temple speedily in our days!
Nechama Dina
P.S. Don't forget to contact me at nechamasmith@gmail.com if you are interested in signing up to be my nutritional-therapy client beginning in September and learning ways to improve your everyday life from A to Z.
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