Foreword to
Fasting: Signs and Symptoms—A Clinical Guide
of Trevor Salloum, N.D., 1992.
by André Saine, N.D., F.C.A.H.
The art and science of fasting is precious knowledge to the well rounded physician. When the appetite disappears, especially during febrile and inflammatory conditions, one should never be forced to eat. At that time the organism needs to rest and regroup. Fasting is a state of physiological rest which is called by the vital force. Food taken without hunger will be poorly digested, if at all, and becomes an impediment to a quick recovery. Such food becomes like a foreigh body sapping the energy that the vital force is focusing on defense and healing.
During a fast, even of short duration, it is common to observe symptoms making their appearance. Symptoms, such as chilliness and insomnia, are normal during the physiological state of fasting. However many others are the result of resurging conditions which had been previously suppressed by inappropriate measures. Also symptoms, which are related to an elimination process such as halitosis, diarrhea and vomiting, will often appear. In rare occurences and usually during a prolong fast, certain symptoms will be signs of complications indicating that the fast must be ended.
All of these various possibilities must be readily differentiated by the clinician. This book, the only one of its kind, has this for objective. Both the student and the practitioner will find it an invaluable aid to better comprehend the symptomatology of fasting. Dr. Trevor Salloum is a respected leader in our profession which rightly emphasizes natural hygiene as the basis of his practice.
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