What to Fast From Besides Food

Fasting has never really been about food.

It has always been about power.

If you’ve ever wondered what to fast from besides food, you’re not alone. Every Fast Sunday, that quiet question surfaces: “Could I just give up something else instead?”

Sometimes that question comes from a legitimate medical need. And sometimes… it comes from the fact that we really, really love lunch.

So let’s talk about what fasting actually is, what the Lord has asked of us, and what to fast from besides food when you truly cannot abstain.

The official guidance is clear. The General Handbook teaches that fasting typically means going without food and drink for two consecutive meals, followed by a fast offering to help care for those in need (see 22.2.2). Members are encouraged to fast on Fast Sunday and whenever they desire special help from the Lord. It also notes that those who cannot fast because of medical conditions or other circumstances should find another meaningful way to participate.

Notice that.
“Cannot.” Not “prefer not to.” Not “get cranky without snacks.” Cannot.

Scripture also teaches this principle. In Doctrine and Covenants 59:13–14, the Lord teaches that fasting and prayer help us offer our “devotions unto the Most High” and keep ourselves “unspotted from the world.” In Isaiah 58, the Lord describes the kind of fast He has chosen. One that looses bands of wickedness, lifts burdens, and blesses others.

Fasting from food matters because it teaches the natural man that he is not in charge. Our bodies are good, but they are not our masters. When we willingly set aside a basic physical appetite, we symbolically declare: “God, You come first.”

And yes, even if you really love food.

But there are circumstances—pregnancy, illness, diabetes, eating disorders, certain medications—where abstaining from food would be unwise or even dangerous. In those cases, the Lord does not ask you to harm your body to prove devotion. The spirit of the law matters.

If you truly cannot fast from food, here are meaningful alternatives that still involve sacrifice and spiritual focus:

1. Social Media

Fast from scrolling, posting, or consuming content for 24 hours. Use that time for prayer, scripture study, or ministering.

2. Entertainment

No streaming, podcasts, background noise, or music (unless it’s sacred and intentional). Create space for stillness.

3. Complaining

Commit to one full day without criticism or negative speech. That one will humble you quickly.

4. Comparison

Fast from measuring yourself against other women, other moms, other disciples. When the comparison thoughts come, replace them with gratitude or prayer. That kind of fast changes hearts quickly.

5. Sugar or Caffeine

If medically appropriate, abstain from something specific that represents a real daily dependence.

6. Busyness

Fast from unnecessary chores or productivity. Protect time to sit with the Lord.

7. Self-Reliance in a Spiritual Sense

Fast from trying to “figure it out” alone. Consciously turn every worry into prayer.

Whatever you choose, make it intentional. Tie it to prayer. Connect it to sacrifice. Give a generous fast offering if you’re able.

Fasting is not a box to check. It’s an invitation to access power.

The Savior taught in Matthew 6:17–18 that when we fast, we do it unto the Father, not for display. That means it’s deeply personal. Quiet. Sacred.

Food is the standard when we can.
But the real goal is a broken heart and a willing spirit.

And the Lord always honors that.