frequently asked questions
CAN I HAVEWHOLE GRAIN PRODUCTS?
Yes, whole grains are allowed, as long as the other ingredients are Daniel Fast friendly. The modern-day Daniel Fast is based onDaniel’s fasting experiences, which involved denying himself certain foods while he sought the Lord in prayer. Scripture gives us some insight (such as in Dan. 10:3) into what he ate and didn’t eat; however, we don’t know all the specifics.
CAN I HAVEBREAD? WHAT ABOUT EZEKIEL BREAD?
Whole wheat and whole grain breads, but the bread must be made without yeast or sugar. In other words, any bread needs to be unleavened, otherwise known as flatbread. Ezekiel bread is not allowed because it contains yeast.
ISFISHALLOWED ON THE FAST?
No. Animal products aren’t part of the Daniel Fast, including seafood. However, some people may choose to modify the guidelines for medical or nutritional reasons. Whether or not to include fish is a matter between you and the Lord.
WHAT ABOUTVEGAN (PLANT-BASED) PRODUCTS, SUCH AS VEGGIE BURGERS, CHEESE, AND MAYONNAISE?
It all depends upon how strictly you plan to follow the Daniel Fast. Some store-bought vegan products are better quality (and more nutritious) than others. Yes, you can have them, but I encourage you to find ones with the least amount of ingredients.
CAN I HAVEVINEGAR? WHAT ABOUTAPPLE CIDER VINEGARANDBALSAMIC VINEGAR?
The process of creating vinegar involves fermentation, and the oxidation of ethanol produces an alcohol-containing liquid. However, one particular vinegar,apple cider vinegar, has many nutritional benefits, so some people may choose to include it on their fast. The idea of the fast is to deny yourself as an act of worship to the Lord. We don’t want to be so legalistic about every single thing that we put into our mouths that we miss the whole point of the Daniel Fast, so I would encourage you to seek the Lord for direction. (Note: Fresh lemon juice is a good substitute for vinegar.)Sincebalsamic vinegarisn’t produced with alcohol like regular vinegar, only grapes, it can be used on the Daniel Fast.
WHAT ABOUTHONEY OR AGAVE NECTAR?
No added sugars are allowed on the Daniel Fast, including agave nectar, honey, brown rice syrup, molasses, maple syrup, raw sugar, table sugar, andartificial sweeteners.
CAN I HAVESTEVIA OR MONKFRUIT?
Some people will use stevia on the fast since it’s plant-based. Monk fruit is a similar type of situation. The decision of whether or not to use natural sweeteners (plant or fruit-based) is a matter of personal conviction.
CANSOY SAUCEBE USED ON THE FAST?
Some people choose not to use soy sauce because of the fermentation process that’s involved (involves alcohol, which isn’t allowed on the fast). Others don’t have a problem with using it. A good substitute for soy sauce isBragg’s Liquid AminosorCoconut Aminos.
MANY CANNED ITEMS CONTAINASCORBIC ACIDORCITRIC ACID. CAN I HAVE THESE PRODUCTS?
On the Daniel Fast you should avoid additives, chemicals, and preservatives as much as possible. However, there are some ingredients in canned foods that are considered “natural” preservatives. Examples are salt, lemon juice, and ascorbic acid, which is a form of vitamin C. So, yes, foods with ascorbic and/or citric acid are allowed. However, keep in mind that fresh is always best. Frozen foods are next highest in nutrients, and then canned.
ARESALT AND PEPPERALLOWED? WHAT ABOUTHERBS AND SPICES?
Yes, you can use salt and pepper to flavor your food. Also, herbs and spices are allowed. However, you need to make sure any store-bought seasonings are Daniel Fast friendly. Read the ingredients list on the label to be sure. Watch out especially for added sugar.
