**Extreme fasting** (also known as **long-term fasting**) refers to not ingesting any food for 48 consecutive hours or more, and only drinking water or other non-calorie drinks. Although some people believe that this method of fasting can bring health benefits, such as improving metabolism, promoting cell repair, and losing weight, long-term fasting is not suitable for everyone and needs to be carried out with caution. Here are some suggestions to help you safely start fasting for more than 48 hours： --- ### **1. Consult a doctor or professional** Before starting a long-term fasting period, **Be sure to consult a doctor or nutritionist**, especially if you have the following conditions： -Suffering from chronic diseases (such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, etc.) -Taking medicine -Pregnant or breastfeeding -Have a history of eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia) --- ### **2. Gradually adapt** If you are new to fasting, it is recommended to start with a shorter period of fasting (such as intermittent fasting at 16:8 or 24-hour fasting), gradually adapt and then try fasting for more than 48 hours. --- ### **3. Preparation before fasting** Before starting fasting, make the following preparations： -**Dietary adjustment**: A few days before fasting, reduce the intake of refined sugar, processed foods and high-fat foods, and eat more foods rich in fiber, protein and healthy fats (such as vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fish, etc.). -**Replenish water**: Ensure that your body is well hydrated and avoid dehydration. -**Psychological preparation**: Understand the discomfort that fasting may cause (such as hunger, fatigue, headache, etc.), and make a coping plan. --- ### **4. Recommendations during fasting** -**Stay hydrated**: Drink plenty of water, you can also drink sugar-free tea or black coffee in moderation. -**Avoid strenuous exercise**: During fasting, the body has low energy, avoid high-intensity exercise, and choose light activities (such as walking and yoga). -**Monitor the body's response**: If you experience symptoms of dizziness, nausea, extreme fatigue, etc., stop fasting and eat immediately. -**Electrolyte supplementation**: Prolonged fasting may cause electrolyte imbalance. You can drink drinks containing electrolytes (such as light salt water) in moderation. --- ### **5. Recovery after fasting** After the fasting is over, **Do not overeat immediately**, but gradually return to a normal diet： -**Start with light foods**: such as vegetable soup, yogurt, fruits, etc. -**Eat a small amount and multiple meals**: Avoid consuming too much food at once and give the digestive system time to adapt. -**Avoid foods high in sugar and fat**: These foods may cause blood sugar fluctuations and indigestion. --- ### **6. Be aware of potential risks** Prolonged fasting may bring the following risks： -Hypoglycemia -Electrolyte imbalance -Muscle loss -Malnutrition -Psychological stress (such as bulimia tendency) If you feel unwell or are not sure if you are suitable for fasting, please stop immediately and seek professional help. --- ###**Summary** Fasting for more than 48 hours is an extreme way of eating and needs to be treated with caution. **Make sure you are physically and mentally prepared**, and pay close attention to your body's response during fasting. If you have any concerns, it is recommended to start with a shorter period of fasting, or choose a milder healthy diet. Hope these suggestions are helpful to you! If you have more questions, you can always ask them.