Fasting: A Spiritual & Physical Detox (Ep. 2 - Orthodox Health Podcast)

Fasting is more than just a dietary restriction
—it’s a spiritual discipline & a path to physical renewal. In this episode of Orthodox Health, Dr. Michael Christian & John dive deep into the purpose of fasting in the Orthodox Christian tradition, exploring how it strengthens both body, mind, & spirit.

What We Cover in This Episode:

✅ The spiritual purpose of fasting – beyond just abstaining from food
✅ How fasting supports metabolic health, gut healing, & longevity
✅ Why fasting is tied to almsgiving & being your brother’s keeper
✅ Common struggles with fasting & how to balance it with work, family, and social obligations
✅ Practical nutrition strategies – how to maintain energy, protein intake, and pro-metabolic health while fasting

Whether you’re engaging in the struggle of Great Lent, navigating your first fast, or looking to optimize your health within the Orthodox framework, this episode will give you the insights and tools to fast with purpose and wisdom.

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Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:32 Introduction to Fasting: A Spiritual Discipline
02:40 Debunking Modern Misconceptions of Fasting
03:17 The Spiritual Purpose of Fasting
05:22 Fasting as a Tool for Spiritual Warfare
08:08 Fasting and the Church Fathers' Teachings
11:20 The Physical and Mental Benefits of Fasting
12:13 The Importance of Community and Almsgiving
14:13 Understanding the Guidelines of Orthodox Fasting
15:56 Spiritual Disclaimer
16:33 When Do We Fast?
18:23 Physiological Benefits of Fasting
19:14 Fasting is not about Starvation
21:00 Maintaining Energy Levels During Fasting
22:55 Nutrient-Dense Foods for Fasting
25:45 Micronutrients and Supplements
27:34 Understanding Anti-Nutrients
28:23 Fasting While Living in the World
30:32 Meal Preparation for Families
32:11 Quick Aside on Franken-"Foods"
36:41 Gut Health and Healing During Fasting
38:44 Integrating the Noetic & the Physical
39:21 Conclusion: Invitation to the Listener

Intro & Outro Music -
St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:
https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser