Fasting can be tough enough on its own, but throw in a full day of work, deadlines, and that co-worker who insists on microwaving leftover pizza at 10 a.m., and it becomes a whole new challenge. Fear not! With a few tricks, some mental gymnastics, and a dash of humor, you can fast through the workday like a pro.
1. Start Your Day Strong: Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Chug a can of fasting hydration, FAST:RX! The key to making it through a fast at work is hydration. Water is your best friend. Drink it, bathe in it (well, not literally at your desk), and carry that water bottle around like a lifeline. If plain water feels a little too dull, try adding lemon slices, cucumber, or mint. Pro tip: Drink warm water. It tricks your stomach into thinking it’s been fed something more substantial, like soup or maybe a sandwich… Okay, stop thinking about sandwiches.
2. Stay Busy, Stay Distracted
The busiest hours are your best fasting hours. Get ahead of deadlines, organize that chaotic inbox, or tackle that long-forgotten spreadsheet. You’ll be surprised how quickly time flies when you’re deep into work-mode. If you find yourself staring at the clock (or, worse, the snack drawer), switch tasks or even rearrange your workspace. A little mental distraction goes a long way.
3. Chew Gum
If your fasting plan allows it, chewing sugar-free gum or sipping herbal teas can help curb the desire to snack. Peppermint tea, in particular, is known for reducing hunger cravings. It’s also great for making you feel like you’re doing something productive when all you’re really doing is pretending that flavored delicous Keto Drink FAST:RX is food.
4. Avoid the Break Room at All Costs
The break room is a danger zone. Between the communal snacks and the enticing smells of other people’s meals, it’s basically a fasting trap. If you can, plan to take breaks elsewhere—go for a walk, stretch at your desk, or scroll through your phone (just steer clear of food pics on Instagram). Your willpower will thank you.
5. Explain Your Fasting to Co-Workers (Or Don’t)
Sometimes, it’s easier to just be upfront with your co-workers about your fasting, so they don’t offer you food every five minutes. On the flip side, if you’d rather avoid the inevitable, “But WHY are you doing this to yourself?” conversation, a simple “No thanks, I’m good” works just as well.
6. Plan Non-Food Rewards
When you’re fasting, it’s easy to fixate on what you can’t have. Flip the script! Plan a little reward for yourself after work that isn’t food-related. Maybe it's catching up on your favorite show, reading a new book, or even indulging in some online shopping. Giving yourself something to look forward to helps keep your mind off food.
7. Deep Breaths: Hunger Comes in Waves
One moment, you’re ready to storm the snack machine for a bag of chips; the next, you’ve forgotten all about it. Hunger often comes in waves, and most cravings pass if you give them a little time. When you’re hit with a craving, try taking a few deep breaths and distracting yourself with a quick task. Or maybe just daydream about your next meal—whatever works.
8. Break Your Fast Wisely
After a long day of fasting, it’s tempting to rush home and devour everything in sight. Resist the urge to turn into a human vacuum! Breaking your fast with something light and nutrient-dense, like a smoothie, salad, or some lean protein, will leave you feeling much better than downing half a pizza and then regretting it. Save the feasting for a special treat once you’re back in control of your hunger!
Happy fasting (and working)! Now, go show that break room who's boss.
