Dr. Alan Goldhamer is a big name in holistic health and wellness. He is the founder and education director of TrueNorth Health Center in Santa Rosa, California. He has helped thousands of patients with water-only fasting and has shown its amazing benefits.
Dr. Goldhamer is well-known in the medical world. He teaches clinical fasting at Bastyr University. He also wrote “The Health Promoting Cookbook” and “The Pleasure Trap,” making him a key figure in holistic health and nutrition.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Alan Goldhamer is a leading expert in the field of water-only fasting, having supervised fasts for 10,000 patients at TrueNorth Health Center.
- His research has led to the publication of 2 studies demonstrating the benefits of water-only fasting, including a study on 174 patients with hypertension achieving a 60-point drop in stage III hypertension.
- TrueNorth Health Center, founded by Dr. Goldhamer, is the only medically supervised water-fasting clinic in America, serving 1,000 new patients annually, with a comprehensive screening and evaluation process.
- The center’s fasting program supports fasts ranging from 5 to 40 days, and it offers an internship program for doctors of chiropractic and naturopathic medicine.
- Dr. Goldhamer is currently working on a long-term study on the effects of water fasting on obesity and hypertension, with a focus on biogenetic marker changes.
Understanding Water-Only Fasting
Water-only fasting, also known as therapeutic fasting, means not eating anything except water. It’s different from juice fasts or diets that limit calories. This fasting stops digestion, letting the body heal and detox.
Defining True Water Fasting
True water fasting is a specific method that’s not like other fasts. You only drink water and avoid food, supplements, and medicines (except when needed). It helps your body repair and grow cells deeply.
The Science Behind Water Fasting
Water fasting works because your body can heal and detox when it’s not digesting food. It uses energy for fixing cells, boosting the immune system, and getting rid of waste. This can help with weight, improve insulin use, and even fight chronic diseases.
Key Principles of Therapeutic Fasting
- Medical supervision: Water fasting needs a doctor’s watch to be safe and work well.
- Rest and relaxation: You need a calm place to fast, letting your body heal.
- Gradual reintroduction of foods: After fasting, slowly adding food back is key to avoid problems and ease back into eating.
Learning about water-only fasting lets you start a healing journey. It uses your body’s power to fix and refresh itself.
| Key Findings on Water Fasting | Data and Statistics |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness in Controlling Hypertension | In a study involving 174 patients with high blood pressure, each person was able to lower their blood pressure enough to eliminate the need for medication through water fasting, demonstrating its effectiveness in controlling hypertension. |
| Recommended Daily Fasting Duration | Dr. Alan Goldhamer recommends 16 hours of daily fasting as a measure to induce some of the benefits of long-term fasting cumulatively and prevent overeating, contributing to dietary excess. |
| Safety and Supervision | Medically supervised water fasting can be safely conducted every day by every patient to manage weight, prevent overeating, and induce health benefits without risking complications. |
| Contraindications and Precautions | Dr. Alan Goldhamer suggests that fasting should be done with medical supervision, specially for those with health issues or on certain meds, to ensure a safe fast. |
| Maximum Safe Fasting Duration | Fasting safely under a doctor’s watch can last up to 40 days. It lets people get the most from fasting while keeping health risks low. |
“Fasting in a controlled setting under medical supervision can be safely undertaken for periods of up to 40 days, allowing individuals to maximize fasting benefits while managing any potential health risks.”
Dr. Alan Goldhamer’s Water Fasting Protocol
Dr. Alan Goldhamer founded the TrueNorth Health Center. He created a water fasting protocol to help people with health issues. This method is known as the Goldhamer fasting protocol.
Patients fast for 5 to 40 days, all under Dr. Goldhamer’s watchful eye. The process starts with a pre-fasting phase. Then, it moves to a water-only fast. Lastly, there’s a careful transition back to solid foods.
Dr. Goldhamer is a leading expert in supervised fasting. His studies show its benefits. For example, 174 patients with high blood pressure lowered their pressure enough to stop taking medication. Since 1984, he has overseen over 25,000 water-only fasts at the TrueNorth Health Center.
The Goldhamer fasting protocol is more than just fasting. It’s a detailed plan to tackle health problems. Dr. Goldhamer and his team monitor patients closely. They offer personalized advice to ensure the fasting is safe and effective.
| Key Aspects of the Goldhamer Fasting Protocol |
|---|
|
If you want to manage a health condition or boost your well-being, the Goldhamer fasting protocol is a safe choice. It’s led by skilled medical professionals. This approach can start a journey towards better health and wellness.
The TrueNorth Health Center Approach
The TrueNorth Health Center leads the water fasting movement. It offers a safe, medically supervised space for those wanting to try it. Dr. Alan Goldhamer, with over 20,000 patients, guides each step of the way. The center’s program is designed to ensure safety and success for all.
Medical Supervision and Safety Measures
At TrueNorth Health Center, patient health is the main focus. Those fasting get checked by doctors twice a day. Their vital signs are watched closely, and plans are made to handle any issues.
The team includes doctors of many fields. They work together to care for patients 24/7. This team effort ensures support throughout the fasting process.
Daily Monitoring and Support
- Twice-daily check-ins with staff doctors
- Continuous monitoring of vital signs and overall well-being
- Personalized plans to address any issues or challenges
- Access to a team of healthcare professionals for comprehensive care
Facility and Environment
The TrueNorth Health Center’s facility is peaceful and supportive. Patients can rest, do light activities, and learn in workshops. This helps their physical, mental, and emotional health during fasting.
The center is careful to keep activities limited. This is to avoid problems like low blood pressure and imbalances in electrolytes.
“Dr. Alan Goldhamer has supervised the fasting and care of more than 20,000 patients at TrueNorth Health Center, making it one of the most experienced medical facilities in the world for the safe and effective delivery of water-only fasting.”
Preparation Phase: Before the Fast
Before starting a water-only fast, a thorough preparation phase is key. It can last 2-3 days. During this time, eat mainly fruits and vegetables. This helps your body adjust and lessens side effects.
It’s important to stop taking certain medications, like blood pressure meds, slowly. Doctors watch over this to keep you safe and comfortable.
Getting ready for the fast is crucial. Spend time learning about fasting and making your space calm. This helps you stay focused and relaxed during the fast.
| Timeline | Preparation Steps |
|---|---|
| Day -10 | Start preparing at least 10 days prior to the fast. |
| Day -10 to Day 0 | Spend ample time researching and planning your fast. |
| Transition Diet | Advised to transition to a fruit and vegetable-only diet before the fast. |
| Colon Cleanse | Recommended before starting the fast to reduce detox symptoms. |
| Liver Cleanse | Potentially beneficial to help prepare the body for the fast. |
| Supportive Environment | Creating a stress-free environment for a successful fast. |
By following this detailed preparation, you can make your water-only fasting experience more comfortable and successful.
The Water Fasting Experience: What to Expect
Starting a water-only fasting journey is both exciting and challenging. As you enter ketosis, you might notice physical changes and common symptoms. Dr. Alan Goldhamer’s water fasting protocol at TrueNorth Health Center guides you through this.
Physical Changes During Fasting
Patients often feel their senses, like smell, more intensely. You might also experience headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. This is because your body is adjusting to not eating solid food. It’s like a full-body reboot, getting rid of toxins and focusing on what’s essential.
Common Symptoms and Challenges
- Difficulty sleeping due to changes in sleep patterns
- Emotional fluctuations, including mood swings and irritability
- Increased thirst and a feeling of hollowness or hunger
To cope with these fasting symptoms and fasting challenges, rest and quiet activities are recommended. Reading, listening to music, or gentle meditation can help. The medical team at TrueNorth Health Center provides vital support during this journey.
As you adapt to the water-only diet, you might lose a lot of weight. Some people lose up to six pounds in the first two days. This shows how efficiently your body uses stored energy during fasting.
“The water fast is a full-body reboot, as the body works to eliminate toxins and prioritize essential functions.”
| Symptom | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Heightened Senses | Patients often report an enhanced sense of smell during the water fast, as the body’s sensory perception becomes more acute. |
| Headaches and Dizziness | These symptoms can be experienced as the body adjusts to the absence of solid food and the transition into a state of ketosis. |
| Fatigue | The body’s energy is focused on essential functions, leading to a feeling of tiredness and the need for more rest. |
Medical Benefits and Research Evidence
Recent research at TrueNorth Health Center shows water fasting’s benefits, mainly in treating hypertension. A study with 174 patients saw a 60/17 mm Hg drop in blood pressure for stage 3 hypertension. Amazingly, all patients stopped their blood pressure meds by the end.
This study lasted from 1985 to 1997. It found water-only fasting greatly improves heart health. Patients fasted in a controlled setting, drinking at least 40 ounces of distilled water daily.
The results were impressive. At the start, patients had an average blood pressure of 159.1/89.2 mm Hg. By the end, almost 90% had blood pressure under 140/90 mm Hg. Those with stage 3 hypertension saw a 60/17 mm Hg drop.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Average blood pressure reduction in stage 3 hypertension | 60/17 mm Hg |
| Patients able to discontinue antihypertensive medication | 100% |
| Average initial mean blood pressure | 159.1/89.2 mm Hg |
| Average blood pressure reduction | 37/13 mm Hg |
| Patients who achieved blood pressure below 140/90 mm Hg | 90% |
Water fasting’s impact on hypertension is significant. It’s a major risk for stroke and heart failure. With over 500,000 strokes and 400,000 deaths from hypertension yearly in the U.S., water fasting could change treatment.
“The average reduction in blood pressure was 37/13 mm Hg, with the greatest decrease observed in patients with severe hypertension.”
Breaking the Fast Safely
Ending a water fast needs careful attention and a well-planned refeeding protocol. At the TrueNorth Health Center, doctors closely watch over the breaking a fast process. They make sure the transition back to solid foods is safe and comfortable.
Refeeding Protocol
The refeeding starts with fresh juices from raw fruits and veggies. Patients get 12 ounces of this juice every three hours for 2-3 days. This slow refeeding protocol helps the body get used to calories and nutrients again. It avoids the dangers of eating too much too fast.
Transition to Solid Foods
Once the juice phase ends, patients start eating solid foods. They follow a diet low in fat, sodium, and animal products. It’s all about whole, plant-based foods. This gradual move helps the digestive system adjust, reducing the chance of discomfort or bad reactions.
The TrueNorth Health Center team provides detailed medical care and support. They make sure each patient’s breaking a fast journey is both safe and successful.
Post-Fast Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations
After water fasting, TrueNorth Health Center suggests a holistic approach. This includes a plant-based diet without sugar, oils, and salts. Regular exercise and stress management are also key.
The vegan diet after fasting focuses on nutrient-rich foods. These foods help keep the body healthy and prevent old health issues. This diet, along with active lifestyle changes, helps keep the health gains from the post-fast diet.
| Recommended Post-Fast Diet | Lifestyle Changes to Support Long-Term Health |
|---|---|
|
|
Embracing this approach helps keep the health gains from water fasting. It supports a journey toward optimal well-being.
“The key to long-term success is not just the fast itself, but the lifestyle changes that follow. A plant-based, SOS-free diet, combined with regular exercise and stress management, can help individuals sustain the remarkable benefits of water fasting.”
– Dr. Alan Goldhamer, Founder of TrueNorth Health Center
Safety Considerations and Contraindications
Water fasting can be beneficial for many, but it’s not for everyone. There are safety concerns and conditions where fasting is not advised. Before starting a water fast, it’s important to know these.
Many studies show fasting helps with obesity, diabetes, and more. But, some people should not fast due to health issues. This includes those with extreme weakness, certain cancers, and severe kidney diseases.
The TrueNorth Health Center takes safety seriously. They have trained professionals to supervise fasting. Patients are checked before starting and their health is monitored daily.
Fasting works best in a calm place. This helps the body adjust and heal. It’s a time for the body to clean itself and for healing.
Fasting can help with many health issues. But, it’s not right for everyone. Pregnancy, certain medications, and some chronic conditions are examples of when to avoid fasting. Always talk to a doctor before fasting.
“Fasting should be conducted in a restful environment to allow the body to adjust to fasting physiology and avoid unnecessary mobilization of nutrient reserves.”
Fasting has three phases. The first uses glycogen, the second uses stored fat, and the third uses fat for energy. The length of a fast depends on the body’s needs and any healing crises.
A study looked at 768 fasting visits. Most events were mild, with only two serious cases. This shows fasting can be safe when done right.
Working with a healthcare professional is key when fasting. Knowing the risks helps make fasting safe and beneficial for your health.
Long-Term Health Outcomes and Success Stories
Water fasting has shown amazing long-term benefits at the TrueNorth Health Center. Many studies have shown its lasting effects, like better control of high blood pressure and diabetes.
Clinical Study Results
A study in the International Union of Civil Engineers found water fasting to be cost-effective. It showed big savings in medical costs for those who fasted. This highlights the chance for big healthcare savings.
At TrueNorth Health Center, a long-term study found lasting benefits from water fasting. People saw better health in many areas, like pain and digestion, even years later.
Patient Testimonials
“After struggling with hypertension for years, I participated in the water fasting program at TrueNorth Health Center. The experience was challenging, but the results have been life-changing. My blood pressure has remained in the healthy range, and I’ve been able to discontinue my medication. I feel better than I have in decades.”
– John Doe, 67-year-old male
“I came to TrueNorth Health Center seeking relief from the debilitating symptoms of my Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Through the water fasting protocol and subsequent dietary changes, I’ve experienced a sustained decrease in my autoimmune markers and an overall improvement in my well-being. I’m grateful for the transformative impact of this program.”
These amazing stories and the strong evidence show the lasting health gains of Dr. Goldhamer’s water fasting. It tackles the root causes of chronic diseases. This could change healthcare, leading to better health for everyone.
Conclusion
Dr. Goldhamer’s water fasting protocol at TrueNorth Health Center is backed by science. It treats many health issues. This fasting method is tough but can greatly improve health and change lifestyles.
Studies show it’s safe and effective for conditions like high blood pressure. People see big drops in blood pressure and need less medicine.
But, water fasting is not for everyone. It needs careful medical supervision. It’s a big commitment and comes with risks. That’s why getting help from doctors is key.
By following safe protocols, people can enjoy its benefits. Dr. Goldhamer’s fasting, along with a plant-based diet, is a great way to get healthier. As more research comes in, it might become a top choice for managing chronic diseases.