Frequently Asked Questions
Before You Fast
What is therapeutic water fasting?
Therapeutic water fasting is the intentional practice of consuming only water for a defined period under medical supervision. By giving the body a complete rest, the body can redirect energy toward its natural restorative processes. At Pacifica, every fast is tailored to your individual health history, goals, and medical needs, with comprehensive guidance before, during, and after your fast.
What is therapeutic water fasting?
By giving the body a complete rest from eating or drinking the body goes into a state called autophagy where fat (in the form of ketones) are broken down for fuel. This is the process where old cells, tissues and fat are broken down to power the body. As a result inflammation is reduced and tissued are repaired. Every program includes comprehensive preparation, physician supervision throughout the fast, and a carefully guided refeeding process to help ensure a safe and effective fasting experience.
What are the benefits of therapeutic water fasting?
People pursue therapeutic water fasting for many reasons, including supporting the body's natural healing processes, reducing inflammation, improving mental clarity, increasing self-awareness, and developing a healthier relationship with food. Every person's experience is unique, and Dr. Jones, ND will tailor your fasting program to your individual health goals.
Water fasting has been shown to have positive effects on symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, chronic aches and pain, bloating and digestive issues, sleep, urinary issues. And for conditions such as: high blood pressure, obesity, metabolic syndrome, Insulin resistance/pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, chronic pain syndromes, chronic injuries, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, mood disorders.
Our patients have seen improvements for fertility (successful pregnancies following loss), eczema, SIBO and other digestive conditions, stuck emotions and trauma for which there are no scientific studies.
Is water fasting safe?
While water fasting done in a supervised environment with trained professionals is a safe intervention, it should always be approached with care. Therapeutic fasting is not appropriate for everyone. Before beginning any program, you'll complete a Health Screening Questionnaire, followed by a 1:1 consultation, to determine whether fasting is suitable for you. Throughout your fast, you'll receive ongoing physician guidance and monitoring to help ensure your safety and comfort.
Who is a good candidate for therapeutic water fasting?
A comprehensive medical assessment is required to determine whether fasting is appropriate based on your health history, current health status, and individual goals.
Who should not participate in a water fast?
Certain medical conditions, medications or other health considerations may make fasting unsafe. That's why every participant completes a thorough medical assessment before being accepted into a program. Your safety is always our highest priority, and recommendations are made based on your individual health needs.
Fasting is not suitable for children, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. In most cases we do not accept someone who is within one year of having completed a full round of chemotherapy.
How do I know which fasting program is right for me?
The right program depends on your health history, previous fasting experience, and personal goals. Following your application through the Health Screening Questionnaire, Dr. Ariel Jones, ND will recommend the fasting program best suited to your needs. Whether you're considering a short introductory fast or a longer therapeutic program, you'll receive personalized guidance every step of the way.
What's the difference between a distance fast and a residential retreat?
Both programs follow the same physician-led process, including medical screening, individualized preparation, ongoing physician guidance, and structured refeeding support. The residential retreat provides accommodations and additional therapeutic treatments in a dedicated healing environment, while the distance program allows you to complete your fast safely from home under the guidance of Dr. Jones, ND.
Why choose a medically supervised fast?
Fasting should be done safely and in an environment that supports a successful outcome. Knowing you have been cleared to fast, are being properly monitored, and in a healing setting allows you to relax into the process of healing. Fasting is a rich experience with many ups and downs throughout the process. Being monitored allows you to experience the fast without fear about whether the symptoms and experiences are safe or concerning.
Being monitored can support someone to complete their fasting goal, and not end early. Residential fasting is a healing retreat, away from the stresses of everyday life. It is a comfortable medical sanctuary where you will not be exposed to variables that might affect your fasting journey or force you to end the fast early. Fasting is a an emotional and spiritual process of unburdening. It can be helpful to be supported with the feelings that arise as you go through your process.
Medical Care & Safety
What happens during the medical intake?
If your Health Screening Questionnaire indicates that therapeutic water fasting may be appropriate, you'll be invited to book a 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Ariel Jones, ND. During this comprehensive medical assessment, Dr. Jones, ND will review your complete health history, current medications, laboratory results, and wellness goals, answer your questions, and confirm whether therapeutic water fasting is appropriate for you. If it is, she will recommend the fasting program and duration that's best suited to your individual needs.
What medical screening is required before fasting?
Every participant begins by completing a comprehensive Health Screening Questionnaire, which is reviewed by our medical team as an initial assessment of your candidacy for therapeutic water fasting. If you appear to be a suitable candidate, you'll be invited to book a 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Jones, ND. During this appointment, your health history, current medications, laboratory results, and wellness goals will be reviewed to confirm whether therapeutic water fasting is appropriate and to determine the program that's best suited to your individual needs.
Will I need lab work?
Yes. Laboratory testing is an important part of the medical screening process and helps Dr. Jones, ND assess your overall health before fasting. Blood work is used to evaluate markers such as blood cells, liver function, kidney function, and electrolyte balance, while additional testing may be recommended based on your individual health concerns. Follow-up laboratory testing may also be used after your fast to help assess treatment progress.
How is my health monitored during the fast?
Throughout your fasting program your progress in monitored through regular physician check-ins and ongoing assessment of your health and wellbeing. Monitoring includes vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, weight, symptom assessment, and other treatment markers to help ensure your fast remains safe and appropriately tailored to your body's response.
Can I take medications while fasting?
Some medications may need to be adjusted or continued during a fast, while others may need to be weaned off before you begin. Because every person's medical needs are different, medication management is reviewed during your medical assessment. Never stop or change prescription medications without first consulting your healthcare provider.
What if I don't feel well during my fast?
Some symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, changes in sleep, or temporary body aches, can occur as your body adapts to fasting. Throughout your program, Dr. Jones, ND will help you distinguish between expected changes and symptoms that require additional assessment, providing individualized guidance to help you remain safe and comfortable.
How is the length of my fast determined?
The length of your fast is based on your health history, medical assessment, personal goals, and how your body responds throughout the fasting process. Dr. Jones, ND will work closely with you to determine the fasting duration that is both safe and appropriate, making adjustments whenever necessary to support your health and wellbeing.
Preparing For Your Fast
Why do I need to prepare before my fast?
Preparation is an essential part of therapeutic water fasting. Gradually changing your diet and lifestyle before fasting helps prepare your digestive system, supports your body's natural detoxification processes, and may reduce discomfort during the fast itself. Before your fast begins, you'll receive a personalized preparation plan, the Therapeutic Water Fasting Guide, educational resources, recipes, and step-by-step guidance to help you prepare with confidence.
What should I eat before my fast?
Your preparation will include a gradual transition to an elimination diet, removing foods such as meat, wheat, gluten, dairy, and refined sugar while emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense foods and hydration. During the final 24 hours before your fast, you'll typically transition to raw foods or liquids to help prepare your digestive system for fasting. You'll receive detailed dietary guidance before your program begins.
How long should I prepare before my fast?
Preparation varies depending on your health, current diet, and the length of your fasting program. Dr. Jones, ND will provide a personalized preparation timeline during your consultation, along with detailed instructions to help you transition safely and comfortably into your fast.
Are there any therapies I should complete before my fast?
Depending on your health history and goals, Dr. Jones, ND may recommend additional supportive therapies before your fast, such as infrared sauna sessions, dry skin brushing, colon hydrotherapy, or other treatments designed to support your body's natural detoxification processes. These recommendations are always individualized as part of your preparation plan.
Will I receive a preparation guide?
Yes. Every participant will receive the Therapeutic Water Fasting Guide. This detailed guide outlines how to prepare for your fast, including dietary recommendations, lifestyle guidance, and what to expect throughout the process. You'll also have the opportunity to discuss any questions during your medical consultation so you feel confident and prepared before your fast begins.
During Your Fast
What can I expect during my fast?
Every fasting experience is unique, but most participants go through a period of adjustment as their body transitions from digestion to fasting. During this time, it's common to experience changes in energy, hunger, sleep or mood. As the fast progresses, many people report greater mental clarity, a sense of calm, and an increased awareness of their body's needs. Throughout your program, Dr. Ariel Jones, ND will provide guidance and support to help you navigate each stage of the process.
Will I feel hungry?
Hunger is often most noticeable during the first few days of a fast as your body adjusts. Many participants find that these feelings gradually lessen as the fasting process continues. Staying well hydrated, resting, and following Dr. Jones, ND's guidance can help make this transition more comfortable.
What symptoms are normal during a water fast?
As your body adapts to fasting, you may experience temporary symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, changes in energy, coated tongue, or body aches. These experiences vary from person to person and are monitored throughout your fast. If you have questions or concerns at any point, Dr. Jones, ND will assess your symptoms and provide individualized guidance.
Can I exercise during my fast?
Gentle movement such as walking, stretching, yoga, or light mobility exercises may be appropriate during your fast. More strenuous physical activity is generally discouraged, as your body is directing energy toward rest and repair. Dr. Jones, ND will provide recommendations based on your individual needs and energy levels.
What should I do during my fast?
Therapeutic water fasting is an opportunity to slow down and allow your body to rest. Many participants spend their time reading, journaling, meditating, walking, or simply relaxing. Depending on your program, Dr. Jones, ND may also recommend supportive therapies such as dry skin brushing, infrared sauna, castor oil packs, or other treatments to complement your fasting experience.
Will I receive support throughout my fast?
Yes. Whether you're completing a distance fast or attending a residential retreat, you'll receive ongoing support throughout your fasting experience. Dr. Jones, ND provides regular medical guidance, monitors your progress, and is available to answer questions or make recommendations as your body responds to the fast.
Refeeding and Recovery
Why is refeeding so important?
Refeeding is one of the most important parts of the therapeutic fasting process. After a period without food, your digestive system needs time to gradually resume normal function. A carefully structured refeeding plan supports a safe transition back to eating while helping you maximize the benefits of your fast. Dr. Ariel Jones, ND will provide individualized guidance based on the length of your fast and your unique health needs. Our program uses with broths, one food meals called mono meals such as fresh fruits, fresh and steamed vegetables to get the digestive system accustomed to eating again.
What will I eat after my fast?
Food is reintroduced gradually using a structured protocol designed to gently wake up the digestive system. Your refeeding plan will include clear instructions on when and how to introduce different foods, allowing your body time to readjust comfortably. The pace of refeeding depends on the length of your fast and is personalized by Dr. Jones, ND.
How long does the refeeding process take?
Refeeding is not a single meal; it is a gradual process that is carefully planned according to the length of your fast. Dr. Jones, ND will provide a personalized refeeding schedule and guide you through each stage to support a safe recovery and a successful transition back to regular eating.
Will I receive support after my fast?
Yes. Your care continues beyond the fasting period. Dr. Jones, ND provides guidance throughout the refeeding process and offers follow-up support to help you transition back to eating safely while building sustainable habits that support your long-term health goals.
Can I go back to eating normally after my fast?
No. Returning immediately to your usual diet can place unnecessary stress on your digestive system after a prolonged fast. Refeeding is a gradual, structured process that allows your body to safely adapt to eating again. Dr. Jones, ND will provide detailed guidance to help you reintroduce foods at the appropriate pace for your individual fasting program.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan option for refeeding?
Yes, all of the food used at the retreat is vegan with the exception of a meat broth that can be substituted easily.
Results
What results can I expect from therapeutic water fasting?
Every person's experience is unique and depends on factors such as their health history, fasting duration, and individual goals. Many participants report feeling mentally clearer, more rested, and more connected to their bodies following a medically supervised fast. Therapeutic water fasting is designed to support the body's natural restorative processes, and Dr. Ariel Jones, ND will work with you to develop a program that aligns with your individual health goals.
How soon will I notice changes?
Some participants notice changes, such as increased mental clarity or shifts in energy, during the fasting period, while others experience the greatest benefits during refeeding and recovery. Because healing is an individual process, results vary from person to person and may continue to evolve in the weeks following your fast.
Will I lose weight?
Weight loss is a guaranteed outcome of water fasting; however, therapeutic fasting is not designed as a weight-loss program. The primary focus is to support your overall health and the body's natural healing processes through a medically supervised fasting experience. Fasting for weight loss must be continued with a dietary and exercise protocol after the fast to be successful in the long term.
Can therapeutic water fasting help reduce inflammation?
Many people choose therapeutic water fasting to support the body's natural healing processes and reduce chronic inflammation. While every person's health journey is unique, therapeutic fasting is often used as part of a comprehensive approach to improving overall health and wellbeing. During your consultation, Dr. Jones, ND will discuss your individual health goals and whether therapeutic fasting may be appropriate for your specific concerns.
How often can I do a therapeutic water fast?
The appropriate frequency depends on your health status, medical history, and personal goals. Some people benefit from a single therapeutic fast per year, while others incorporate fasting into a longer-term wellness plan. Following your program, Dr. Jones, ND will discuss whether additional fasting or other lifestyle strategies may be appropriate for you.
Will I receive recommendations after my fast?
Yes. Your fasting experience is intended to support lasting changes beyond the fasting period itself. Following your fast and refeeding, Dr. Jones, ND will provide personalized recommendations to help you maintain healthy habits and continue working toward your long-term health goals.
Will the benefits last after my fast?
Therapeutic water fasting addresses the concerns that it is able to in the time spent fasting. While we have goals and intentions, the benefits will ultimately be seen after the process is complete. A therapeutic fast can be healing in and of itself, and it can also be a catalyst to more healing after the fast is complete.
Many patients report long lasting benefits well after the fast is complete. Sometimes the benefits their received are different than their original goal. Some people feel better on the fast but have a return of symptoms. This could be that the fast was not long enough, or more healing is required in the future.
The habits you build before, during, and after your fast—including your approach to nutrition, movement, and self-care—play an important role in supporting lasting results. Dr. Jones, ND will provide guidance to help you carry those changes forward after your program is complete.
Program & Booking
How do I know which program is right for me?
Every participant begins by completing a Health Screening Questionnaire, which is reviewed by our medical team. If therapeutic water fasting appears to be appropriate, you'll be invited to book a 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Ariel Jones, ND. During this comprehensive medical assessment, Dr. Jones, ND will review your health history, discuss your goals, confirm your candidacy, and recommend the fasting program that's best suited to your individual needs, experience level, and health goals.
What's the difference between a distance program and an in-person retreat?
Both programs follow the same physician-led therapeutic fasting process, including medical screening, preparation, daily supervision, education, and guided reintroduction. The distance program allows you to complete your fast from home with personalized medical support, while the in-person retreat provides an immersive healing environment with accommodations, wellness therapies, and additional opportunities for rest and reflection.
What's included in the distance water fasting programs?
Every distance program includes comprehensive medical care and educational support to help you fast safely from home. Programs include a 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Jones, ND, physician-guided preparation, daily medical support, access to the Therapeutic Water Fasting Guide and educational resources, guided reintroduction, a one-hour follow-up appointment, and access to a private online community for ongoing support.
What's included in the in-person retreats?
Each retreat combines therapeutic water fasting with physician supervision, education, and restorative wellness experiences in a peaceful residential setting. Your retreat includes the initial 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Jones, ND, personalized physician supervision throughout your stay, educational sessions, accommodations, guided reintroduction, the Therapeutic Water Fasting Guide, daily wellness activities, and a one-hour follow-up appointment. Depending on the retreat, complementary wellness therapies may include yoga, meditation, acupuncture, massage, infrared sauna, and red light therapy.
I'm new to fasting. Which program should I choose?
Many participants begin with the introductory 3-day fasting program, although the most appropriate program depends on your health history, goals, and previous fasting experience. During your Water Fasting Consultation, Dr. Jones, ND will recommend the fasting format and duration that's best suited to your individual needs.
Why is the program longer than the fast itself?
Therapeutic water fasting includes much more than the fasting period alone. Every program is designed to include time for medical assessment, preparation, the fasting period itself, and a carefully guided refeeding phase. This comprehensive approach helps support both safety and long-term success while giving your body time to transition into and out of the fasting state.
How do I get started?
Begin by completing the online Health Screening Questionnaire, providing as much detail as possible about your health history, medications, and wellness goals. Your submission will be reviewed by our medical team to determine whether therapeutic water fasting appears to be appropriate for you.
If you're a suitable candidate, you'll be invited to submit your consultation deposit and schedule a 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Jones, ND. Following that consultation, you'll receive a personalized program recommendation and enrolment instructions.
Does submitting the Health Screening Questionnaire commit me to a program?
No. Completing the Health Screening Questionnaire is simply the first step in the process. It allows our medical team to complete an initial assessment of your candidacy for therapeutic water fasting. There is no obligation to purchase a program by submitting your application.
If you're identified as a potential candidate, you'll be invited to submit a $250CAD deposit and schedule a 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Jones, ND. There is no obligation to proceed beyond the initial form screening or 1:1 consultation, but if you choose to enrol in a fasting program, your deposit will be applied toward the cost of your program.
What if therapeutic water fasting isn't right for me?
Your health and safety always come first. If our medical team determines that therapeutic water fasting is not appropriate based on your Health Screening Questionnaire, you'll receive guidance on your next steps, which may include an invitation to book a naturopathic consultation with Dr. Jones, ND to discuss how you can work toward becoming a candidate in the future.
If new or previously undisclosed medical information is identified during your Water Fasting Consultation, Dr. Jones, ND may determine that therapeutic water fasting is not appropriate at this time. This is why it's essential to complete your Health Screening Questionnaire as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
How much do your water fasting programs cost?
Because every therapeutic water fasting program is tailored to your individual health needs, goals, and recommended fasting duration, pricing may vary from person to person, but standard prices are as follows:
Pricing for Distance Fasts:
3-Day Fast - $1,250
5-Day Fast - $1,900
7-Day Fast - $2,250
Pricing for In-Person Retreats:
7-Day Retreats - $5,700
10-Day Retreat - $7,200
15-Day Retreat - $9,700
21-Day Retreat - $12,714
30-Day Retreat - $17,250
In-person retreats includes private accommodations, physician supervision by Dr. Ariel Jones, ND, all medical consultations and daily monitoring, educational programming, wellness activities, and comprehensive support before, during, and after your fast, including guided reintroduction and follow-up care.
Following your Water Fasting Consultation, Dr. Jones, ND will recommend the program that's best suited to your needs and provide you with a personalized quote. If you choose to enrol, your $250 CAD deposit will be applied toward the total cost of your program.
Why is there a consultation deposit?
The $250 CAD consultation deposit secures your 1:1 Water Fasting Consultation with Dr. Jones, ND. During this comprehensive medical assessment, Dr. Jones, ND will review your complete health history, confirm your candidacy for therapeutic water fasting, and recommend the program that's best suited to your individual needs. If you choose to enrol, your consultation deposit is applied toward the cost of your fasting program.
Accommodations & Amenities
Where are the retreats held?
Our therapeutic water fasting retreats take place in a peaceful residential setting designed to support rest, healing and reflection. Surrounded by nature and away from the demands of everyday life, the retreat provides a quiet environment where you can fully focus on your health and wellbeing. Our fasting centre is located on Mayne Island, BC.
What accommodations are available?
Participants stay in comfortable private rooms, with several room options available depending on your preferences and availability. Couples are also welcome. Retreats are intentionally kept small from one to seven participants, allowing for a personalized and supportive experience. Private retreats are available upon request as availability allows.
What is included with my accommodation?
Your retreat is all-inclusive and includes private accommodations, guided reintroduction meals, physician supervision, educational sessions, and access to retreat amenities and wellness activities. Everything is designed to help you fully immerse yourself in the therapeutic fasting experience.
What is a typical day like at the retreat?
Each day is intentionally designed to balance physician care, education, rest, and gentle wellness activities. Depending on your stage of fasting, your day may include medical check-ins with Dr. Ariel Jones, ND, educational sessions, yoga or meditation, wellness therapies, quiet time for reflection, and opportunities to connect with nature.
What wellness therapies are included?
Retreat amenities vary by session but may include yoga, meditation, infrared sauna, red light therapy, acupuncture, and massage. Additional services such as IV therapy, colon hydrotherapy, and breathwork may also be available as optional add-ons depending on the retreat.
Will I have privacy during my retreat?
Yes. Every participant has their own private bedroom, providing a comfortable space to rest, reflect, and recharge throughout their stay. Retreats are intentionally limited to just seven participants, creating a quiet, supportive environment that balances privacy with the opportunity to connect with others if you choose.