Amaranth, barley, brown rice, buckwheat, bulgur, freekeh, millet, oats, plain popcorn, quinoa, rye, sorghum, spelt, teff, whole grain pasta, whole wheat, and wild rice are approved. Olive, avocado, peanut, coconut, grapeseed, canola, walnut, and sesame oil are all approved oils. Only vegetable oils are allowed, and only in small amounts, such as to saute vegetables. All types are permitted, except those with added salt. Here are foods that are approved while on the Daniel Fast: However, proponents of the diet emphasize that it’s intended to be a personal devotion to God, so it may look different for each person based on their needs and medical history. Generally, people should consume only approved foods during the fast. Though variations of the Daniel Fast exist, most people follow the diet for 10–21 days before returning to their typical diet. It involves consuming a strict plant-based diet for 10–21 days. The Daniel Fast is based on a story in the Book of Daniel. Some use it to get closer to a higher power as a form of sacrifice, similar to other religious practices, such as Lent or Ramadan. Many people now use it as a temporary, short-term fast or “ detox” from modern food and lifestyle. Thus, the diet is encouraged for the others.ĭaniel uses this short-term diet to demonstrate his faith and fortitude. In particular, the diet is heavily based on pulses, which are used as a primary source of protein.Īt the end of the 10 days, Daniel and his friends are stronger and healthier - both mentally and physically - than everyone around them. The diet includes fruits, vegetables, pulses (beans), whole grains, and water. Instead, Daniel and his friends choose to consume foods they believe God intends for consumption for 10 days. Verse 16: “Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink and gave them pulse.”ĭedicated to his belief in God, Daniel rejects the rich, indulgent foods offered by the king, such as meats, dairy, wine, and other delicacies.Verse 15: “And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat.”.Verse 14: “So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days.”.
Verse 13: “Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.”.Verse 12: “Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.”.In the book (Daniel 1:12–16), there are five verses that describe the diet: In the story, Daniel is an Old Testament prophet who is placed under King Nebuchadnezzar’s rule at a young age.
Known as the Daniel Fast or Daniel Diet, this diet is based on a biblical story in the Book of Daniel.