Fla. Woman Dies While Fasting

A 55-year-old woman in central Florida died last month while locked away in her room fasting and praying.  The fast was to last one week but ultimately, it was a month before her family discovered her body.  Her husband, a Pentecostal preacher, wanted to respect her privacy and assumed her lengthy stay was her doing "what God called her to do."

For the record, the cause of death has NOT yet been determined.  Assuming her death came as a result of this practice, can one assume that "fasting" is a dangerous activity?  According to the American Cancer Society, fasting longer than five days can have serious negative impacts on the body.  In fact, it recommends that any fast more than week should be closely monitored and take place at a spa, resort, or a similar facility.  I know many churches that routinely practice monthlong fasts.  I don't know anyone that has passed away or have had serious negative effects to their bodies (that we know of).  Does that make it "safe?"

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