-1733997622400.webp)
Chris Pratt, who is widely known for his character of Star-Lord in the Marvel Cinematic Universe often experiments with his diet styles. Taking to his instagram stories, the MCU actor once shared that he is undertaking the ‘Daniel Fast’ diet. It is a strict, potentially risky crash diet that claims to help followers lose weight and "get closer to god." The 21-day partial fast is based on a story from the Book of Daniel in the Bible.
What Is Daniel Fast Diet?
The Daniel Fast diet is based on the Old Testament story of the prophet Daniel, who chose to eat only vegetables and drink water while in exile in Babylon. This fast is characterised by a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. It strictly avoids animal products, dairy, sugars, and processed foods.
While many may assume that it is similar to veganism, it has strict limitations. Individuals following the diet typically consume foods grown from seed. The fast is intended not only for physical health but also as a time for spiritual reflection and prayer.
What Is The Historical Significance Of Daniel Fast Diet?
As per the story, Daniel was devoted to his faith in God and he refused the rich and fancy foods offered by the king, like meat, dairy, wine, and other treats. Instead, Daniel and his friends decide to eat only the foods they believed that God wanted them to eat for 10 days. Pulses are especially important in this diet as they provide the main source of protein.
After 10 days, Daniel and his friends were stronger and healthier, both in mind and body, than everyone else around them. Others were also encouraged to follow their example and Daniel used this short-term diet to show his faith and strength. Many people today use it as a temporary fast or "detox" from modern foods and lifestyles.
Chris Pratt's Experience With The Daniel Fast Diet
Chris Pratt announced that he was starting the Daniel Fast to help him get motivated for healthy living after the festive season. In a rather funny Instagram video, he mentioned that his fast would happen at the same time as promotional events for his film Lego Movie 2, joking that he might start hallucinating from hunger during interviews.
The Marvel star explained that his decision was inspired by his pastor and aimed to improve both his physical health and spiritual well-being. Pratt stressed that the fast was not just about losing weight but also about connecting more deeply with his faith.
Study On Daniel Fast And Its Effect On Human Body
Effect of a 21-day Daniel Fast on metabolic and cardiovascular disease risk factors in men and women, a study published on PubMed claims that Daniel Fast led to significant improvements in blood lipid profiles. The study indicated reductions in total cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, while HDL (good cholesterol) levels also decreased but to a lesser extent in the modified version of the fast. The respondents of the study even experienced a notable decrease in blood pressure.
However, jumping on to crash diets or detox diets may also have adverse effects on the body. One must know the right way to follow any given diet is to first consult a specialist and then make informed decisions by knowing the overall implications - positives and negatives - of any diet.