Prof. Arnold Ehret's Rational Fasting for Physical, Mental and Spiritual Rejuvenation

1. Disease is Primarily Mucus Accumulation

All disease is finally nothing else but a clogging-up of the smallest blood vessels, the capillaries, by mucus.

The Mucus Theory. Professor Ehret posits that the fundamental cause of all diseases is the accumulation of mucus in the body, originating from the consumption of unnatural foods. This mucus clogs the blood vessels, hindering proper circulation and leading to various health issues. This theory challenges the conventional medical focus on external invaders like bacteria, suggesting that these organisms thrive in the mucus-rich environment created by poor diet.

Sources of Mucus. Mucus-forming foods include meat, dairy, processed foods, and starches like bread, potatoes, and rice. These foods, when digested, leave behind a sticky residue that accumulates over time. This accumulation leads to fermentation, decomposition, and the creation of a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

Manifestations of Mucus. The presence of excess mucus can manifest in various ways, from common colds and catarrh to more serious conditions like heart disease, rheumatism, and even mental illness. Ehret argues that even hereditary diseases are rooted in this fundamental cause. The body's attempts to eliminate this mucus result in the symptoms we recognize as illness.

2. Fasting: Nature's Supreme Healing Method

Fasting is the omnipotent healing modality for animal life.

Innate Healing. Fasting is presented as the most natural and effective way to cleanse the body of accumulated mucus and toxins. It allows the body to focus its energy on eliminating waste rather than digesting food. This process is instinctive in animals, who naturally abstain from eating when sick.

Types of Fasting. Ehret discusses a spectrum of fasting experiences, including water, juice, and all-fruit dieting. He emphasizes that fasting is "simply eating less," and the specific method should be tailored to the individual's condition. The key is to reduce the intake of mucus-forming foods, allowing the body to initiate its self-healing mechanisms.

Benefits of Fasting. Fasting can lead to physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation. It can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall vitality. By removing obstructions in the body, fasting allows for a more efficient flow of energy and nutrients, leading to improved health and well-being.

3. Transition Diet: Gradual Change is Key

As Ehret pointed out, most people are far too obstructed with mucus, pus, and toxemias for long-term fasts to be very beneficial.

The Importance of Preparation. A sudden shift to a completely mucus-free diet or prolonged fasting can be too drastic for many individuals. Ehret advocates for a gradual transition diet that slowly reduces the intake of mucus-forming foods while increasing the consumption of fruits and non-starchy vegetables. This approach allows the body to adjust and eliminate toxins at a manageable pace.

Transition Diet Principles. The transition diet involves replacing mucus-forming foods with mucus-lean alternatives. For example, toasting bread reduces its mucus content, and baking potatoes with their skins is preferable to boiling them. The goal is to gradually shift the body's internal environment towards a cleaner, less congested state.

Benefits of Gradual Change. A gradual transition minimizes the risk of adverse reactions and allows the body to adapt more comfortably. It also helps to cultivate a preference for healthier foods, making the long-term adoption of a mucus-free lifestyle more sustainable. This approach emphasizes patience and consistency over drastic, unsustainable measures.

4. Fruit: The Most Natural Healing Remedy

Fruit only, the sole "mucusless" food, is natural.

Fruit as Ideal Food. Ehret champions fruit as the most natural and biologically appropriate food for humans. Fruits are easily digested, provide essential nutrients, and leave behind minimal waste. They are also rich in fruit sugar, which is readily used by the body for energy.

Benefits of Fruit Consumption. A diet primarily consisting of fruit can lead to improved digestion, increased energy levels, and a reduction in mucus accumulation. Fruits also contain vital minerals and enzymes that support overall health and well-being. Ehret even suggests that humans can thrive on a mono-diet of a single type of fruit for extended periods.

Practical Considerations. While fruit is ideal, Ehret acknowledges that practical considerations may make a completely fruit-based diet challenging for some. He recommends incorporating non-starchy vegetables into the diet to provide additional nutrients and variety. The key is to prioritize fruits and vegetables while minimizing the consumption of mucus-forming foods.

5. Overeating: The Root of Many Evils

Complete fasting, followed by a decrease in the quantity of food eaten, is the only check on "overeating."

The Dangers of Excess. Ehret identifies overeating as a major contributor to ill health. Consuming more food than the body can efficiently digest and eliminate leads to the accumulation of waste and toxins. This overburdens the digestive system and hinders the body's natural cleansing processes.

Moderation is Key. Ehret emphasizes the importance of eating only when truly hungry and consuming only as much food as the body needs. He points to the example of ascetics and historical figures who thrived on minimal food intake. The goal is to nourish the body without overwhelming it.

Consequences of Overeating. Overeating, especially of mucus-forming foods, can lead to a range of health problems, including obesity, fatigue, and chronic diseases. It also creates a craving for stimulants like alcohol, coffee, and tobacco, as the body seeks ways to counteract the sluggishness and discomfort caused by excessive food intake.

6. Rejuvenation Through Cleansing

Everybody subjecting himself to a thorough restoring cure in case of any disease, by parting with the dead cells through mucusless diet and eventually fasting, rejuvenates himself simultaneously.

The Fountain of Youth. Ehret suggests that the accumulation of mucus is a primary driver of aging. By cleansing the body of this waste through fasting and a mucus-free diet, it is possible to slow down the aging process and even reverse some of its effects. This includes improving skin health, restoring hair growth, and enhancing overall vitality.

Signs of Rejuvenation. As the body cleanses itself, various signs of rejuvenation may become apparent. These include improved skin texture, clearer eyes, increased energy levels, and a more youthful appearance. Ehret also notes that the voice can become stronger and clearer as the body eliminates mucus from the vocal cords.

Holistic Transformation. Rejuvenation through cleansing is not just a physical process; it also involves mental and spiritual renewal. As the body becomes cleaner and more efficient, the mind becomes clearer and more focused. This holistic transformation can lead to a greater sense of well-being and a more fulfilling life.

7. The Importance of Individualized Fasting

How long one should fast cannot be definitely stated at all, in advance, even in cases where the condition of the patient is known.

Tailoring the Approach. Ehret stresses that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to fasting. The duration and intensity of a fast should be tailored to the individual's specific condition, taking into account factors such as age, health status, and previous dietary habits. What works for one person may not be suitable for another.

Monitoring Progress. It is crucial to carefully monitor the body's response to fasting and adjust the approach accordingly. This includes paying attention to symptoms, bowel movements, and the appearance of mucus in the urine. The goal is to support the body's natural cleansing processes without overwhelming it.

Breaking the Fast. Breaking a fast is just as important as the fast itself. The first meal should be carefully chosen to be easily digestible and promote further cleansing. Ehret recommends starting with fruits or non-starchy vegetables, depending on the individual's condition and tolerance.

8. The Superior Fast: Spiritual Rebirth

Your soul will shout for joy and triumph over all misery of life leaving it all behind you.

Beyond Physical Cleansing. Ehret describes a "superior fast" that goes beyond mere physical cleansing to achieve a state of spiritual rebirth. This involves a deep purification of the body and mind, leading to a heightened sense of awareness and connection to the divine.

Transformation of Consciousness. During the superior fast, the brain functions in a new way, and the conscience awakens to a real self-consciousness. This can lead to a fundamental shift in thinking, ideals, and aspirations. The individual experiences a profound sense of joy and liberation from the miseries of life.

Accessing Higher States. The superior fast is not just about abstaining from food; it's about creating a state of unobstructed energy flow within the body. This allows for a greater connection to the spiritual world and the revelation of a superior way of living. It is the ultimate goal of Ehret's teachings, leading to a life of health, happiness, and spiritual fulfillment.

Last updated: April 5, 2025