We’re excited that you’re considering doing the “Daniel Fast” during Rivers Crossing’s 21-Day Fast.
In Daniel 10:2-3, we find the following description of how Daniel fasted:
“In those days I, Daniel, was mourning for three weeks. I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, for the full three weeks.”
There is no definitive list of what food and beverage is included and excluded during a “Daniel Fast”. Like Daniel, let your decision be an outward expression of an inward desire to honor God during this time.
With that, people have been practicing a Daniel Fast for centuries and there is a general consensus of what constitutes the foundation of a Daniel Fast.
Food and Beverage Included:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Water
- Natural fruit juices (no sugar added)
Food and Beverage Excluded
- Meat, fish, poultry
- Alcohol
- Bread
- Rice
- Dairy, eggs, cheese
- Refined sugar and artificial sweeteners
Beyond this, individuals generally choose if they include or exclude the following types of food and beverages.
Optional Food and Beverages
- Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
- Nuts and seeds
- Whole grains (oats, barley)
- Herbal Tea
- Soy milk (non sweetened) and soy powder
- Olive oil and olive oil based salad dressings
When choosing what to include in your Daniel Fast diet, ask yourself the following questions?
- Is this part of my typical diet?
- Is the inclusion of a particular food or beverage primarily for my comfort?
We encourage you to let your decision be Spirit directed and that you stick to whatever “menu” you choose throughout the entire fast.
Finally, be sure to drink as much water as possible during the fast. 8 – 12 glasses a day is a good range to shoot for. If you have any known medical condition or suspect such conditions, consult your physician before beginning the fast.