Guidelines for Fasting

2006 FAST Guidelines
America's Broken Promise
March 15, 2006 at 8 p.m. until noon March 17

During these 40 hours you are invited to go without solid food for one or more meals, for the time between sunrise and sunset on March 16, for the entire 40 hours or for the time between meals.

Why a 40-hour time period for prayer, reflection and action?
The number 40 has special significance in both religious and labor traditions. For Christians, the 40 days of Lent are meant to be a time of prayer and reflection, sacrifice and transformation. The season is rooted in Jesus' 40 days of fasting and the Israelites' wandering in the desert for 40 years. The 40-hour work week, which created "the weekend" for most workers in the U.S. was won after years of organizing and struggle by the labor movement.

How to fast
The Labor-Religion Fast asks you to not eat solid food during the 40 hours or during a period you identify. It is important to drink plenty of liquids while fasting. In your hunger, you are asked to take action, "to hunger for justice" so that on-going and persistent injustice in New York State may be alleviated.

It is hoped you will invite others (family members, co-workers, your religious congregation, your union brothers and sisters, etc.) to join the Fast. Call 518/ 213-6000, ext. 6294 for more brochures.

Fasters need not change their normal schedule; however, you are encouraged to join with others in your local area for an opening of the Fast on the evening of March 15. Many groups will also "break the fast" together with a simple noon meal and prayer service following the 40th hour on March 17.

You are invited to join others in 2006 FAST events. Click here for details.

Medical Advice for Fasting
(adapted from Women Against War, sponsor of a 24 hour fast)
Most healthy adults can safely fast for 24 hours. However, some people should not participate such as those with diabetes, liver or kidney disease, persons on chronic steroids, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

It is common to feel some uncomfortable sensations during a period of fasting. These include headache, fatigue, some nausea later in the fast, lightheadedness or dizziness especially with standing up. Regular coffee or tea drinkers are more likely to experience withdrawal headaches or migraines triggered by fasting.

Preparations for fasting:
•In the first 12-16 hours of fasting most of our readily available calorie sources are consumed.
•It probably helps to eat a carbohydrate rich meal before beginning the fast. Carbohydrate rich foods include cereals, breads, pasta, grains, rice, legumes.
•Coffee and tea drinkers may try to reduce their consumption several days before their fast.
•Once the fast begins, it is important to conserve energy. Plan to rest and nap throughout the time.
•It helps to have warm clothing to help maintain body temperature.
•It is important to continue to drink plenty of water.