Starting a 3-day fast with data, discipline, and a little dark humor.
Last night at 6 PM, I ate what I knew would be my last meal for the next three days—a greasy, unapologetic bacon cheeseburger. A parting gift to myself before I pulled the plug on food. Today is Day 1 of my quarterly water fast, a ritual I commit to not to drop weight, but to sharpen discipline, reclaim mental clarity, and give my body a break from nonstop digestion. It’s about saying “no” and actually meaning it.
Fasting has roots in spiritual, cultural, and scientific traditions going back centuries. What was once practiced by monks, prophets, and warriors has now been studied in labs. Science backs the benefits: better insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and one of the most fascinating processes of all—autophagy.
Autophagy, which literally means “self-eating,” is your body’s built-in recycling program. Around 24 to 48 hours into fasting, the body begins breaking down old, damaged cells and proteins, clearing out cellular debris, and regenerating new, healthier cells. It’s like spring cleaning on a cellular level. Japanese cell biologist Yoshinori Ohsumi won the Nobel Prize in 2016 for his work on the process. So yes—it’s a big deal.
I’m tracking this fast using my KetoScan—a device that measures acetone levels in the breath, which correlates with fat metabolism. Today at 3:00 PM, I clocked in at:
📊 KetoScan Data – May 14, 2025 @ 3:00 PM
- Weight: 77.1 kg
- Body Fat: 12%
- Ketone Level: 6.2 PPM (Level 6)
- Estimated Fat Burn Rate: ~4.5g/hour
- Status: Stable ketosis, moderate fat-burning zone
Translation: I’m already in ketosis. My glucose reserves are running low, and my body has turned to fat for fuel. This is where the magic begins—when your system adapts and the mental fog starts to lift. Ketones, the byproduct of fat metabolism, are actually a cleaner-burning fuel for your brain. Some people report enhanced focus and even euphoria.
Mentally, I’m somewhere between Zen monk and slightly buzzed. The hunger isn’t gnawing—it’s more like an echo. What’s louder is the silence: no cravings, no scrolling menus, no decision fatigue. I realize how much of my day is shaped by eating. Without food as a buffer, I’m left to face my thoughts head-on. It’s uncomfortable—but that’s the point.
Physically, I’m doing well. I’ve been hydrating aggressively, supplementing with pink salt for electrolytes, and easing off caffeine to avoid headaches. I took a walk today, and instead of craving pancakes, I found myself daydreaming about long-term goals, unfinished writing projects, and how surprisingly peaceful it is to just exist without constantly feeding myself.
Later tonight I’ll take another KetoScan reading to see if I’ve pushed deeper into fat-burning. Day 2 is where autophagy begins to take center stage. It’s also where most people tap out. But I’ve done this before, and every time I come out on the other side sharper, leaner, and more in control.
So far, Day 1 is a win. No food, no complaints—just water, discipline, and a little hunger-fueled introspection.
Your Turn: Ever fasted? Considering it? Curious about KetoScan? Drop your thoughts or questions below.
Note: This article is based on personal experience and for informational purposes only. Fasting may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new dietary regimen.