Water Fasting Calculator

What is water fasting?

Water fasting is a type of fast where you consume only water (and sometimes zero-calorie electrolytes) for a set period of time. Unlike intermittent fasting, which cycles between eating and fasting windows each day, water fasting typically lasts 24 hours to several weeks. During a water fast, your body shifts from using glucose to burning stored fat for energy, a process called ketosis. Extended fasts may also trigger autophagy, a cellular cleanup process.

What does this water fasting calculator do?

This water fasting calculator estimates your expected weight loss, daily water intake needs, electrolyte requirements, and calorie deficit during a water fast. It also provides a day-by-day timeline of what to expect physically and mentally, so you can prepare and fast safely. Whether you're planning a short 24-hour fast or an extended water fast, this tool gives you a personalized plan.

How much weight will I lose water fasting?

Weight loss during water fasting varies by individual, but a common estimate is 0.5–1.0 kg (1–2 lbs) per day. However, much of the initial weight loss is water weight (glycogen depletion), not pure fat. Actual fat loss depends on your TDEE (total daily energy expenditure). For example, if your TDEE is 2,000 kcal/day, you'd burn roughly 0.25 kg (~0.55 lbs) of fat per day. After refeeding, some water weight returns, so the net fat loss is typically less dramatic than the scale suggests.

What happens to your body during a water fast?

Your body goes through several phases during a water fast:

• Hours 0–12: Your body uses up stored glucose (glycogen). Blood sugar drops gradually.
• Hours 12–24: Glycogen stores deplete. The body begins producing ketones from fat. You may feel hungry, irritable, or have headaches.
• Days 1–3: Full transition to ketosis. Hunger often peaks on day 1–2 and then decreases. Energy may dip before stabilizing.
• Days 3–5: Deep ketosis. Many people report mental clarity and reduced hunger. Autophagy ramps up.
• Days 5–7+: The body is fully fat-adapted. Weight loss continues at a steadier rate. Electrolyte management becomes critical.

How much water should you drink during a water fast?

A good baseline is 2–3 liters (8–12 cups) per day, adjusted for your body weight and activity. Larger individuals and those in warm climates may need more. Don't over-drink — excessive water without electrolytes can cause hyponatremia (dangerously low sodium). Sip consistently throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once.

Do you need electrolytes during a water fast?

Yes, especially for fasts longer than 24 hours. The three key electrolytes are sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Without food intake, your body loses electrolytes through urine and sweat. Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance include headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, heart palpitations, and fatigue. Many experienced fasters supplement with salt (sodium), potassium chloride, and magnesium citrate.

Is water fasting safe?

Short water fasts (24–72 hours) are generally safe for healthy adults. Extended fasts (5+ days) carry more risk and ideally should be done under medical supervision. Water fasting is not recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, underweight, under 18, have diabetes (especially type 1), have eating disorders, take certain medications, or have heart/kidney conditions. Always consult a healthcare professional before attempting an extended fast.

How do you break a water fast safely?

Breaking a water fast properly is just as important as the fast itself. The longer the fast, the more careful the refeeding should be:

• 1-day fast: Resume with a normal light meal (soup, fruit, small portions).
• 2–3 day fast: Start with bone broth, diluted juice, or small portions of soft foods. Gradually increase over 1–2 days.
• 5+ day fast: Refeed over half the duration of the fast. Start with broth and juices, then soft foods, then normal meals. Avoid large meals, sugar, and processed foods initially.

Refeeding syndrome is a rare but serious risk with extended fasts. It occurs when the body gets a sudden influx of carbohydrates after prolonged fasting, causing dangerous electrolyte shifts. This is why gradual refeeding is critical.

Water fasting vs. intermittent fasting: what's the difference?

Intermittent fasting (IF) cycles between eating and fasting windows within each day or week (e.g., 16:8, 5:2). You still eat daily. Water fasting means consuming zero calories for an extended period — typically 24 hours to several weeks. Water fasting is more intense and produces faster results but also carries more risk. Many people start with IF before attempting longer water fasts.

What are the benefits of water fasting?

Research and anecdotal evidence suggest several potential benefits:

• Fat loss: Your body burns stored fat for energy when no food is available.
• Autophagy: Cellular cleanup process that removes damaged cells and proteins (typically starts after 24–48 hours).
• Insulin sensitivity: Fasting can improve how your body responds to insulin.
• Mental clarity: Many fasters report improved focus and cognitive function after the initial adjustment period.
• Reduced inflammation: Some studies show decreased inflammatory markers during fasting.
• Digestive rest: Gives your digestive system a break, which may help with gut health.

What can you consume during a water fast?

A strict water fast allows only:

• Water (still or sparkling)
• Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium — zero-calorie supplements)
• Some fasters also allow: black coffee, plain tea (purists avoid these)

Anything with calories — including juice, broth, or supplements with sugar — technically breaks a water fast. However, some people follow a "modified" water fast that includes bone broth or minimal calories.

Bottom line

Water fasting can be a powerful tool when done safely:

• Start with shorter fasts and build up gradually
• Stay hydrated and supplement electrolytes
• Break your fast carefully and slowly
• Listen to your body — stop if something feels wrong

This water fasting calculator helps you plan ahead so you know what to expect. Use it alongside professional guidance for the best results.