You’ll read that you shouldn’t break a long fast with a heavy meal because of refeeding syndrome but does it even effect us if we break with a high fat high protein meal?

I reckon you only ever get the electrolyte issue if you break with carbohydrates.

Pure speculation on my part so I’m happy to be wrong.

The longest I’ve ever fasted was 5 days and I broke with eggs and nothing negative happened.

Of course n=1 though.

Thoughts?

I don't think I venture into re-feeding issues but I don't do well breaking my fasts.

I do a 72 hour fast once per month, and if I have nothing planned for the weekend I stretch it to 96 hours. My longest is 7 days.

It seems no matter what I do I get incredibly loose for a day or so after the fast. I have broken my fast with smaller meals, broths, etc. but no matter, the first day after the bathroom trips are basically diarrhea.

I have read certain fruits would help but I have not gone down that road.

I think the fasts have to be much longer for refeeding to play a big role/cause problem. I think one would have to get past when it is 'fasting' and actually be into starvation, as well as dehydration.

Most who fast do water fasts. Refeeding issues stem when the body is in starvation and dehydration.

I'm not a medical guy at all, but I would guess the sudden expansion of shrunken parts could lead to any number of health issues.

I end my fasts based on if we have plans for the weekend. I spot myself a day to get back on track. If I am going to be around the house I stretch it 4 or five days and then the first meal is a regular old carnivore meat slat and water approach.

The next approach is to the bathroom.

Maybe a bit too much information. LOL

Scott

On 5/16/2026 at 7:23 AM, Vynith said:

You’ll read that you shouldn’t break a long fast with a heavy meal because of refeeding syndrome but does it even effect us if we break with a high fat high protein meal?

I reckon you only ever get the electrolyte issue if you break with carbohydrates.

You greatly reduce your risk of issues by avoiding the carbohydrates, especially if you have been keto-carnivore for some time and are already fat adapted. Protein and fat stimulated for less insulin and will also result in less overall electrolyte shifts. In cases of severe starvation it could still be an issue.

The recommendation is to start reintroducing food slowly. Start with someone small and mild like bone broth, and egg, etc. Watch for symptoms. Then add more food gradually.