The Fast: The History, Science, Philosophy, and Promise of Doing Without

Fasting—going without food intentionally for a set period of time—has a long, fascinating history from ancient times to today. John Oakes treats us to a fascinating look at what fasting does to our bodies—both helpful and harmful—and the many different uses humans have found for calorie restriction throughout the ages. The chapter on the use of fasting as a sort of targeted personal activism in both India and Ireland is especially compelling. You'll also learn about hunger strikes, holy anorexia, fasting in Ancient Greece, diet culture, altered consciousness, and so much more—a veritable feast.