Volume III · Part III · Chapter 32
Fasting Wisely After 55
The Art of Eating
About 1 min read
Fasting (upavasa) is part of both Ayurveda and spiritual practice — Ekadashi, Navratri, Shravan Mondays. Ayurveda itself recommends langhana (lightening) when there is ama, and describes many grades from skipping one meal to fruit-only days. After 55, however, prolonged or dry fasts carry real risks: dehydration, dizziness, falls, low blood sugar in those on diabetes medicines, and loss of muscle. The kitchen supports guests who fast with a safe phalahari track.
| Type of fast | Description | Suitable for most guests over 55? | Kitchen support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light day (laghu ahara) | Simple meals: khichdi, soups, fruit | Yes | Pathya section (Vol. II, 1) |
| One-meal day | Two light meals instead of three | Usually, if not diabetic on medication | Make the one meal complete with protein |
| Phalahari | Fruit, milk, nuts, permitted grains (samak, kuttu, rajgira, singhara, sabudana), rock salt | Yes, with fluids | Vrat section (Vol. II, 12) |
| Fruit and milk only | Fruit, milk, curd | With care; not for diabetics | Ensure 1.5 L fluids |
| Water only | Warm water | Generally not advised after 55 without medical supervision | — |
| Nirjala (no water) | No food or water (e.g. Nirjala Ekadashi) | Not advised for older adults, especially in summer | Gently suggest a sip-water or phalahari alternative |