There is no question but that a fast, followed by a light diet,
containing less of the heavily starchy and proteid foods and more of the
succulent vegetables and fresh fruits, with their cleansing juices and
health-imparting salts, would result in the recovery of over one-half of
the insane. Most of them are suffering functionally and here the outlook
is very hopeful. Christ cured a lunatic "by prayer and fasting." Proper
feeding would work wonders in prisons. It would also be very beneficial
for wayward girls and young men who are passion's slaves. St. Peter
recommended fasting as an aid to morality, which is another evidence of
the profundity of his wisdom.
How long should a fast last? Until its object has been accomplished. It
is rarely necessary to fast a month, but sometimes it is advisable to
continue the fast for forty days, or even longer. If the fast is taken
on account of pain, continue until the pain is gone. If for fever, until
there is no more fever. In chronic cases it is not always necessary to
continue the fast until the tongue is clean. When the patient is free
from pain and fever and comfortable in every way, start feeding lightly.
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