How to hold the post

In many religions there is a ritual of abstinence from food or follow certain food restrictions. In Christianity, the most famous fast is Great lent, which lasts 48 days before Easter. Rules of fasting quite challenging: on different days there are different limits sometimes are generally prohibited. In addition, it is important to remember that the post is made primarily for the purification of the soul.

The purpose of fasting

The purpose of fasting – through abstinence from food to fight sin, to embark on the path of spiritual perfection, to abandon evil thoughts and deeds. It is impossible to observe lent just because it is fashionable or good for health: in one case it is useless and even harmful waste of time, and the other post turns into the usual diet, but in fact it is not only set certain restrictions in food. Many priests say that during lent it is better to refrain from negative thoughts, but eating meat than Vice versa.

If the rejection of the usual food causes aggression and anger, there is no reason to observe lent.

For the first time for fasting people, those who have no habits to limit yourself to food, people with poor health and other disabilities can stick post based on their capabilities. Priests bless pregnant women, nursing mothers, sick people on relief in fasting. After a sharp rejection of the usual food can lead to health problems and the exacerbation of certain diseases.

Fasting according to the strict Church rules prohibited to the patients of gastrointestinal diseases, children and adolescents up to 14 years.

Rules of fasting

Lent consists of the so-called Quadragesima, lent lasts 40 days and Holy week. At this time you can not eat dairy and meat products, eggs, fish and any dishes containing these foods, although some days minor exceptions. For example, the Annunciation or palm Sunday to cook fish, and on the eve of palm Sunday can eat caviar. There are more tough days – so Monday first week of lent, or on Friday during Holy week believers do not eat anything.

While fasting is allowed to eat nuts, honey, jams, vegetables and fruits and soy products that replace meat and dairy. It is desirable to include in the menu of legumes, which make up for the lack of animal protein.

It is very important during lent to follow a caloric intake, it should remain at the same level as before the restrictions. Fasting is not a diet, to eat varied and satisfying. Do not forget to drink fresh juices, green tea, mineral water. Pickles while fasting is allowed, but don't get carried away by them. It is very important to leave the post during Easter week – not to overeat, introduce foods gradually to observe moderation.

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