This book offers a foundational exploration into the science and fine art of fasting, as championed by natural hygiene pioneer Herbert M. Shelton. It meticulously details the physiological processes and practical applications of fasting for healing, detoxification, and rejuvenation. Even today, it remains a foundational text for understanding the principles of therapeutic fasting and natural health from a historical and influential perspective.
Listen to PodcastIn 'The Science and Fine Art of Fasting,' Herbert M. Shelton lays the groundwork for understanding fasting as a natural, physiological process. He argues that fasting is not a cure but rather a biological adaptation that allows the body to heal itself. Shelton emphasizes that fasting is a period of physiological rest, during which the body can redirect its energy from digestion to detoxification and tissue repair. He draws a clear line between the voluntary act of fasting, undertaken when the body has sufficient reserves, and starvation, which is the forced deprivation of food when the body's reserves are depleted. Shelton's foundational principles are rooted in the idea that the body has an innate intelligence to heal and that fasting is a powerful tool to facilitate this process.
Herbert M. Shelton places great importance on distinguishing between fasting, starvation, and dieting, as he believes the confusion between these terms has led to a misunderstanding of the practice of fasting. He defines fasting as the complete abstinence from all food, except for water, for a specific period. [23] According to Shelton, true fasting is a physiological rest that the body undertakes when it has sufficient nutrient reserves to sustain itself. [13] In contrast, he describes starvation as the state that occurs when the body has exhausted its reserves and begins to break down vital tissues for energy, a process he considers harmful. [13, 23]\n\nDieting, in Shelton's view, is the regulation of food intake, often for weight loss, and is distinct from fasting because it still involves the consumption of food. He argues that while dieting can be beneficial, it does not provide the same profound physiological rest and healing opportunities as a complete fast. Shelton's core message is that fasting is a safe and natural process when undertaken correctly, while starvation is a state of physiological crisis. He emphasizes that the return of true hunger is a key indicator that the fast should be broken, signaling that the body's reserves are nearing depletion. [10]
A cornerstone of Herbert M. Shelton's philosophy on fasting is his observation of the animal kingdom. [15] He noted that as a child, he saw farm animals instinctively refuse food when they were sick or injured. [2] This led him to believe that fasting is a natural, instinctual behavior that is not unique to humans but is a widespread practice in nature for healing and recovery. [6] Shelton argues that animals do not have doctors or medicine, yet they are able to recover from illness and injury by simply resting and abstaining from food. He posits that this instinct to fast is a powerful, innate healing mechanism that has been largely forgotten by modern humans. [22]\n\nBy observing animals, Shelton concluded that the energy normally used for digestion is redirected to the healing process during a fast. [15] He uses the example of hibernating animals, which go for long periods without food, to illustrate the body's ability to sustain itself on its own reserves. [13] For Shelton, the animal kingdom provides the ultimate proof that fasting is a safe and effective way to allow the body to heal itself. He encourages readers to look to nature as a guide and to trust in the body's innate wisdom to heal, just as animals do.
In 'The Science and Fine Art of Fasting,' Herbert M. Shelton provides a historical and cultural context for the practice of fasting, demonstrating that it is not a new or radical idea but a practice that has been utilized by humans for thousands of years. [5] He points to the fact that fasting has been a part of various religious and spiritual traditions around the world, used for purification, spiritual insight, and physical healing. Shelton suggests that these ancient practices are a testament to the intuitive understanding of the benefits of fasting that has been passed down through generations. [15]\n\nShelton also references the work of early physicians and health reformers who advocated for fasting as a therapeutic tool. He saw himself as continuing a tradition of 'Natural Hygiene,' a movement that began in the 19th century and emphasized the body's self-healing capabilities. [2] By highlighting the long history of fasting, Shelton aims to legitimize the practice and to counter the modern medical view that often dismisses it as dangerous or unscientific. He argues that the historical evidence, combined with his own extensive experience, shows that fasting is a time-tested and effective method for restoring and maintaining health. [16]
Herbert M. Shelton's 'The Science and Fine Art of Fasting' delves into the profound physiological changes that occur in the body during a fast. He explains that when the body is not burdened with the task of digestion, it can redirect its energy towards healing and regeneration. [15] Shelton describes a series of processes, including the conservation of energy, autolysis, and various chemical and organic changes, that work together to restore the body to a state of health. He introduces the concept of 'vital energy' as the life force that orchestrates these healing processes. According to Shelton, fasting is the most effective way to conserve and enhance this vital energy, allowing the body to perform its natural healing functions without interference.
A central concept in Herbert M. Shelton's work is the idea of 'physiological rest.' He argues that the digestion and assimilation of food is one of the most energy-intensive processes the body undertakes. [15] When a person fasts, this energy is conserved and can be redirected to other, more pressing needs, such as healing and repair. [12] Shelton compares this to the way a person with a broken leg rests to allow the bone to heal. In the same way, he suggests that the entire body can benefit from a period of rest from the constant work of digestion. [6]\n\nShelton emphasizes that this conservation of energy is not just about feeling more rested, but about providing the body with the resources it needs to heal on a cellular level. He believed that many chronic diseases are the result of the body being overwhelmed and depleted of energy. By fasting, a person can give their body a much-needed break, allowing it to catch up on its healing and detoxification processes. This concept of physiological rest is fundamental to Shelton's entire philosophy of health and healing.
Herbert M. Shelton explains the process of autolysis, or 'self-digestion,' as one of the most remarkable aspects of fasting. He describes how, in the absence of external food, the body begins to break down and absorb its own non-essential and diseased tissues for nourishment. [3] This includes tumors, abscesses, and other pathological growths, as well as excess fat and cellular waste. [6] Shelton viewed autolysis as a highly intelligent and selective process, in which the body prioritizes the breakdown of the least essential tissues first, while preserving the health and integrity of vital organs and tissues. [3]\n\nAccording to Shelton, autolysis is the body's natural way of 'house cleaning.' [3] It is a process of purification and renewal, in which the body gets rid of old, damaged, and diseased cells to make way for new, healthy ones. He believed that this process was at the heart of the healing that occurs during a fast. In one book story, Shelton recounts the case of a woman with a large fibroid tumor that completely disappeared after a prolonged fast, which he attributed to the process of autolysis. He saw this as a powerful demonstration of the body's ability to heal itself when given the opportunity to do so.
Herbert M. Shelton details the significant chemical and organic changes that take place in the body during a fast. He explains that as the body shifts from using glucose from food for energy to burning its own fat reserves, a state of ketosis is induced. This metabolic shift has a profound impact on the body's chemistry. Shelton observed that during a fast, the body's eliminative organs, such as the kidneys and liver, become more active in removing toxins and waste products from the blood. [29] This can be seen in the changes in the color and odor of the urine and the coating that often appears on the tongue. [10]\n\nShelton also noted that the blood itself undergoes a process of purification during a fast. He claimed to have observed an increase in the number of red blood cells and a general rejuvenation of the blood. [19] He believed that these changes were indicative of the body's efforts to restore itself to a state of health and balance. In another book story, Shelton describes the case of a man with severe anemia whose red blood cell count increased significantly after a two-week fast, which he saw as evidence of the body's ability to regenerate even in a state of abstinence from food. [3]
Central to Herbert M. Shelton's philosophy is the concept of 'vital energy.' While he does not define this term in a strictly scientific sense, he refers to it as the life force or inherent power of the body to maintain health and heal itself. Shelton believed that this vital energy is a finite resource that can be depleted by poor lifestyle choices, such as overeating, lack of rest, and emotional stress. He saw disease as a state of depleted vital energy, in which the body no longer has the resources to effectively heal and defend itself.\n\nAccording to Shelton, fasting is the most powerful way to conserve and accumulate vital energy. By resting the digestive system, the body can redirect its energy to the healing process. [15] He believed that this increase in vital energy is what allows the body to perform the remarkable feats of healing that he observed in his patients. For Shelton, vital energy was not a mystical concept but a tangible force that could be cultivated through a healthy lifestyle. He saw fasting as a key component of this lifestyle, a way to recharge the body's batteries and to restore its natural healing capacity.
In 'The Science and Fine Art of Fasting,' Herbert M. Shelton provides detailed practical guidance on how to undertake a fast safely and effectively. He emphasizes that fasting is not simply about abstaining from food but is a holistic process that requires careful attention to the body's needs. Shelton's practical advice covers everything from determining the appropriate conditions and duration for a fast to managing the symptoms that may arise. He stresses the importance of rest, both physical and mental, as well as proper water intake and hygiene. Shelton's goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge and confidence to use fasting as a tool for self-healing, while also providing clear guidelines to ensure their safety and well-being.
Herbert M. Shelton provides clear guidelines for determining the appropriate conditions and duration for a fast. He advises that fasting is most beneficial for individuals who are struggling with chronic health issues, but he also suggests that it can be used by healthy individuals for preventative purposes. [17] Shelton cautions against fasting for those who are severely emaciated or who have a specific medical condition that would make fasting dangerous. He also stresses the importance of undertaking a fast in a supportive and restful environment, free from the stresses and demands of daily life.\n\nRegarding the duration of a fast, Shelton's approach is highly individualized. He does not prescribe a set number of days for a fast but rather teaches that the fast should be continued until the body has completed its healing work. He identifies the return of true hunger as the primary indicator that the fast should be broken. [10] Other signs that the fast is complete include the clearing of the tongue, the sweetening of the breath, and a general sense of well-being. [10] Shelton's emphasis is on listening to the body's wisdom and allowing it to guide the fasting process.
Herbert M. Shelton provides a comprehensive overview of the symptoms and experiences that a person can expect during a fast. He makes a crucial distinction between hunger and appetite. Hunger, he explains, is a true physiological need for food, which is typically absent during a fast until the body's reserves are depleted. Appetite, on the other hand, is a psychological desire for food, often driven by habit, emotions, or social cues. Shelton teaches that it is important to learn to differentiate between these two sensations, as giving in to appetite can undermine the fasting process.\n\nShelton also discusses the concept of the 'healing crisis,' a temporary intensification of symptoms that can occur during a fast as the body eliminates toxins. [10] This can manifest as headaches, fatigue, skin rashes, or other uncomfortable symptoms. Shelton reassures his readers that these healing crises are a positive sign that the body is cleansing itself and that they will pass. He advises rest and patience during these periods. Other common experiences during a fast include a coated tongue, bad breath, and changes in body odor, all of which he interprets as signs of detoxification. [10]
Herbert M. Shelton repeatedly emphasizes the critical importance of rest during a fast. He explains that fasting is a period of profound physiological rest, and to get the most out of it, it is essential to also rest on a physical and mental level. [3] Physical rest means avoiding strenuous activity and getting plenty of sleep. Shelton advises his patients to spend as much time as possible in bed, especially during the early stages of a fast when the body is working hard to adapt to the absence of food. [3]\n\nMental rest is equally important. Shelton encourages fasters to avoid stressful situations, emotional upsets, and excessive mental stimulation. He suggests activities such as reading light material, listening to calming music, or simply resting in silence. The goal is to create a peaceful and serene environment that supports the body's healing process. By minimizing external demands on the body and mind, a person can maximize the amount of energy available for healing and regeneration.
Herbert M. Shelton provides specific guidance on water intake and hygiene during a fast. He recommends drinking pure water whenever one is thirsty, but he cautions against forcing fluids. He believed that the body's thirst mechanism is a reliable guide and that drinking an excessive amount of water can be a burden on the kidneys. [4] In some cases, such as with individuals experiencing significant edema, he even advised restricting water intake to facilitate the elimination of excess fluid from the tissues. [4]\n\nIn terms of hygiene, Shelton emphasizes the importance of keeping the body clean during a fast. He recommends daily bathing to help the skin eliminate toxins. However, he advises against long, hot baths, as these can be depleting of energy. He also suggests paying attention to oral hygiene, as the mouth can become a site of detoxification during a fast. Shelton's overall approach to hygiene is one of simplicity and common sense, with the goal of supporting the body's natural eliminative processes without adding any unnecessary stress.
In 'The Science and Fine Art of Fasting,' Herbert M. Shelton presents fasting as a powerful therapeutic tool with a wide range of benefits. He argues that fasting is not a 'cure' in the conventional sense, but rather a process that allows the body to heal itself by removing the underlying cause of disease. [6] Shelton's central theory is that most diseases are the result of 'toxemia,' a state of autointoxication caused by the accumulation of metabolic waste and environmental toxins in the body. He believed that fasting is the most effective way to address toxemia and to restore the body to a state of health. Shelton provides numerous case studies from his own practice to illustrate the therapeutic benefits of fasting for a variety of acute and chronic conditions.
Herbert M. Shelton's entire therapeutic framework is built upon the concept of 'toxemia.' He defines toxemia as a state in which the body is overwhelmed by toxins, both from its own metabolic processes and from external sources such as unhealthy food and environmental pollutants. [8] According to Shelton, when the body's eliminative organs are unable to keep up with the toxic load, these toxins accumulate in the tissues, leading to a state of autointoxication that is the root cause of all disease. [34] He believed that different diseases are simply different manifestations of this underlying toxic state, depending on an individual's genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors. [8]\n\nShelton saw fasting as the most direct and effective way to address toxemia. By ceasing the intake of food, the body is given a chance to catch up on its eliminative work. The energy that would normally be used for digestion is redirected to the detoxification process, allowing the body to cleanse itself of accumulated waste. [15] Shelton believed that by removing the root cause of disease, fasting could not only alleviate symptoms but could also lead to a complete and lasting recovery.
Herbert M. Shelton advocated for the use of fasting in both acute and chronic diseases. For acute diseases, such as colds, flus, and fevers, he saw fasting as a way to support the body's natural healing response. [17] He argued that the lack of appetite that often accompanies acute illness is the body's signal that it needs to rest from digestion and focus on fighting the infection. [22] By fasting during an acute illness, a person can conserve their energy and allow their immune system to work more effectively.\n\nFor chronic diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, and digestive disorders, Shelton recommended longer, supervised fasts. [28] He believed that these conditions were the result of years of accumulated toxemia and that a prolonged fast was necessary to give the body enough time to cleanse and repair itself. Shelton supervised thousands of fasts for individuals with a wide range of chronic conditions and documented many remarkable recoveries. [18] He saw fasting as a way to reverse the disease process and to restore the body to a state of vibrant health.
Herbert M. Shelton believed that fasting had a profound effect on the regeneration of nerves and tissues. He argued that the process of autolysis, in which the body breaks down old and damaged cells, creates the space for new, healthy cells to grow. [3] He also believed that the conservation of energy during a fast provides the body with the resources it needs to repair and rebuild its tissues. Shelton claimed to have observed the regeneration of damaged nerves and the healing of chronic wounds in his fasting patients. [19]\n\nShelton's views on regeneration were based on his understanding of the body's innate healing intelligence. He believed that the body is always striving for health and that it has the capacity to repair itself, even from serious injury and disease. He saw fasting as a way to remove the obstacles to this natural healing process and to provide the body with the optimal conditions for regeneration. While his ideas were not always supported by the scientific community of his time, modern research on autophagy and cellular repair is beginning to validate some of his core concepts. [12]
Herbert M. Shelton saw fasting as a powerful tool for overcoming addictions to substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine. He believed that addiction is not just a psychological issue but also a physiological one, rooted in the body's dependence on the stimulating or sedating effects of a substance. He argued that fasting could help to break this physiological dependence by clearing the body of the addictive substance and its metabolic byproducts. [17]\n\nShelton observed that during a fast, the body's cravings for addictive substances would often diminish and eventually disappear. He attributed this to the fact that the body was no longer relying on external substances for stimulation or comfort but was instead tapping into its own inner resources. He also believed that the mental clarity and emotional stability that often accompany a fast could help individuals to address the underlying psychological issues that contributed to their addiction. Shelton saw fasting as a way to reset the body and mind, providing a clean slate from which to build a new, healthier life.
In 'The Science and Fine Art of Fasting,' Herbert M. Shelton emphasizes that the period after a fast is just as important as the fast itself. He provides detailed instructions on how to properly break a fast and how to transition back to a healthy diet. Shelton's post-fasting care is part of a larger framework of 'Natural Hygiene,' a system of living that is designed to maintain long-term health and to prevent the recurrence of disease. [1] He believed that fasting is not a one-time fix but rather a powerful tool that should be integrated into a holistic lifestyle that supports the body's natural healing abilities. Shelton's goal is to provide his readers with the knowledge and tools they need to not only recover from illness but to also create a lifetime of vibrant health.
Herbert M. Shelton considered the process of breaking a fast to be of critical importance. He warned that breaking a fast incorrectly could not only negate the benefits of the fast but could also be dangerous. [14] The primary rule for breaking a fast is to do so gradually and with easily digestible foods. Shelton recommended starting with small amounts of fresh fruit or vegetable juice, and then slowly introducing whole fruits and vegetables over a period of several days. [14]\n\nThe length of the re-feeding period should be proportionate to the length of the fast. For a longer fast, the transition back to a normal diet could take a week or more. Shelton stressed the importance of chewing food thoroughly and eating slowly to allow the digestive system to gently reawaken. He also advised against overeating, as the stomach will have shrunk during the fast and will need time to adjust to larger quantities of food. [14] By following these guidelines, a person can ensure a smooth and safe transition from fasting to eating, and can preserve the benefits they have gained.
Herbert M. Shelton's dietary principles for the post-fasting period are based on his system of 'Natural Hygiene.' He was a strong advocate for a raw, plant-based diet, as he believed that cooking denatures food and destroys its vital nutrients. [7] He recommended that the majority of the diet consist of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds in their natural, uncooked state. Shelton also placed great emphasis on the principles of food combining, which he believed could improve digestion and prevent the fermentation and putrefaction of food in the gut.\n\nThe basic principles of food combining include eating fruits alone, not combining proteins and starches in the same meal, and eating melons by themselves. Shelton believed that by following these principles, a person could reduce the burden on their digestive system and ensure that they were getting the maximum amount of nutrition from their food. He saw the post-fasting period as an ideal time to implement these dietary changes, as the body is in a clean and receptive state.
Herbert M. Shelton's 'The Science and Fine Art of Fasting' is just one part of his larger system of 'Natural Hygiene.' Natural Hygiene is a holistic approach to health that emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with the laws of nature. [9] The principles of Natural Hygiene include a plant-based diet, regular exercise, adequate rest and sleep, fresh air and sunshine, emotional balance, and, of course, fasting. [1] Shelton believed that by adhering to these principles, a person could not only prevent disease but could also achieve a state of vibrant health and longevity.\n\nShelton saw Natural Hygiene as a way of life, not just a set of rules to be followed. He encouraged his readers to become students of their own bodies and to learn to listen to their innate wisdom. He believed that the body is always striving for health and that if we provide it with the right conditions, it will heal itself. [7] For Shelton, fasting was a powerful tool for restoring health, but the ultimate goal was to create a lifestyle that was so healthy that fasting would no longer be necessary.
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