Hey there! If you’re just starting your fasting journey, or even if you’ve been at it for a while, you’ve probably realized that fasting isn’t always easy. Some days, it feels like a breeze, and other days, every clock you glance at seems to be mocking you. Trust me, I’ve been there. Luckily, there are some amazing tools that can make fasting a lot more manageable and even enjoyable. I’ve put together my top 10 favorite fasting tools to help you stay on track and make your journey smoother.
1. Fasting Tracker Apps
One of the first things I recommend is downloading a fasting tracker app. Apps like Zero or FastHabit are lifesavers. They let you set fasting goals, track your progress, and even remind you when it’s time to start or stop fasting. I used to set alarms on my phone, but these apps make it so much easier. Plus, seeing your streak grow is super motivating!
2. Electrolyte Powders
When I first started fasting, I had no idea how important electrolytes were. Without them, I’d feel sluggish or get headaches. Electrolyte powders like LMNT or Liquid I.V. are fantastic because they help you stay hydrated and replenish minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Just mix them into your water, and you’re good to go.
3. Smart Water Bottle
Speaking of hydration, a good water bottle is a must. I love my smart water bottle because it tracks how much water I’m drinking and even reminds me to take a sip. Staying hydrated is key during fasting, and having a bottle that keeps you accountable makes all the difference.
4. Protein Powders and Bone Broth
Breaking your fast with something light and nutritious is essential. Protein powders or bone broth are great options. I usually go for a clean, low-sugar protein powder for a quick shake or heat up a cup of bone broth when I want something warm and comforting. Both are gentle on your stomach and packed with nutrients.
5. Meal Prep Containers
When your eating window opens, it’s easy to overeat if you don’t plan ahead. That’s why I swear by meal prep containers. They help me portion out my meals so I don’t go overboard. Plus, they make it super convenient to grab a healthy, pre-portioned meal when I’m busy.
6. Fitness Tracker or Smartwatch
A fitness tracker can be a game-changer for fasting. It helps you monitor your activity, sleep, and even calorie burn. Some trackers, like Fitbit or Apple Watch, can sync with fasting apps to give you a complete picture of how your body is responding. I love checking my stats to see how fasting improves my sleep or energy levels.
7. Herbal Teas
Hunger pangs can be tough, especially in the beginning. That’s where herbal teas come in. Peppermint, green tea, or chamomile can help curb cravings and keep you calm. I like to sip on a warm cup of tea in the afternoon when I feel a snack attack coming on. It’s soothing and keeps me busy.
8. Kitchen Scale
A kitchen scale might sound like overkill, but it’s actually super helpful. It lets you measure your portions accurately, which is great if you’re tracking your macros or calories during your eating window. I didn’t realize how easy it was to underestimate portions until I started using one.
9. Fasting Journal
I know this might sound old-school, but keeping a fasting journal can really help. Write down how you feel during your fasts, what you ate to break them, and any patterns you notice. For example, I learned that drinking too much coffee during my fasts made me jittery, so I adjusted. It’s like having a personal log of your journey.
10. Meditation or Mindfulness Apps
Fasting isn’t just about physical health—it’s also about mental clarity. Apps like Headspace or Calm can help you stay focused and mindful. I like to meditate when I’m feeling stressed or overly focused on food. It helps shift my attention and keeps me grounded.
Bonus Tips
While tools are great, it’s important to listen to your body. Fasting is a journey, and everyone’s experience is different. These tools are here to support you, not make things more complicated. Start with one or two that resonate with you, and build from there.
When I first started fasting, I honestly thought I’d never make it through a 16-hour fast. But with the right tools, it became not only doable but enjoyable. It’s incredible how a few small changes can make such a big difference.