Medically Supervised Fasting Programme

Designer Louise Kennedy

“You commence the fast with a laxative day of Epsom salt which cleanses the gut and prepares the system to rest and sleep. Thereafter you consume approximately 250 calories per day. Breakfast is an herbal tea, and lunch and dinner consists of either a small bowl of soup or a juice. Yes, it is a shock to the system and early into the fast can be tough, particularly when caffeine deprivation kicks in. But I can honestly say that after Day 3, the sense of wellbeing, physical and emotional, is so powerful. My energy levels got stronger each day. I easily achieved 25,000 steps each day, walking to the beach or enjoying the beautiful mountain trails. I felt my stress levels decrease and felt myself growing mentally stronger and calmer.

“The clinic overlooks the Mediterranean, and grounds are beautifully maintained, with bougainvillea and palm trees. The facilities are five-star, with a wonderful gym, and a beautiful outdoor pool. I enjoyed kinesiotherapy, Japanese facials and one of my favourite treatments, underwater massage, a game-changer for any aches and pains. The nine days are so full and varied, the time slips by. You are encouraged to put away your computer and phones are banned in public spaces. But it is very social: everyone chats about their stay and there are visitors from many different cultures. The highlight was breaking the fast and experiencing the phenomenal quality and flavours of the “readaptation food”, all sustainably and locally produced. The food is delicious, the presentation exquisite. I returned to Dublin with renewed vitality and a commitment to embrace a diet based on locally produced food where possible.

“While I lost 3kg in two weeks, on this trip my focus was on wellbeing and rest. I’m so happy the fast has restored a healthy sleeping pattern as I have I really struggled for the past number of years. Will I return? Yes, but more importantly I now embrace the Buchinger regime into my daily routine too.”