Fasting in Israel can be a different experience from fasting in other countries. It’s hard to recall a Yom Kippur in Israel that did not include hearing someone fainting from dehydration. Even though this year Yom Kippur falls late on October 12, and we hope for cooler weather, the dry, hot weather in Israel puts fasters at higher risk of dehydration. Preparing for Yom Kippur a few days in advance is a sure way to fast safely on this High Holiday.
When a person fasts, everyday behavior results in a loss of fluid that is not being replaced in the course of the day. When you talk, pray, breathe, sweat, and move, the body depletes its glycogen stores from muscles and the liver — that's the carbohydrate stores that provide quick energy. Then... it starts breaking down protein within muscles and fat to produce energy. During that process, the body's metabolism slows down to conserve energy. This also explains why people (unfortunately) do not keep any weight off from a fast! Meanwhile, hormonal reactions will fluctuate.
EMA Care provides medical concierge, case management, and patient advocacy services to tourists, students, and Israel residents. You can reach us at info@healthcareisrael.com. Schedule your free consultation today.
When you subscribe to the blog, we will send you an e-mail when there are new updates on the site so you wouldn't miss them.