The time suggested to come off a fast varies. One may follow a set time schedule or wait for traditional pointers of detoxification (improved breath, clear tongue, removal of original symptoms, return of appetite). Always, when the hunger-free stage of fasting has passed and a strong hunger returns, it is time to return to juices and broths.

 Continued fasting may cause the body to enter a starvation stage in which it begins to burn vital protein mass, that is the reason for ending a fast when a strong hunger returns. As a rule, about the same length of time should be given to the withdrawal phase as was spent on the fast. At the end of the fast, the amount of digestive juices available is limited and the stomach may have shrunk considerably, so the initial meals should be in small amounts at frequent intervals. Gorging after a fast, as some occasionally do, or eating highly refined or spiced foods, can have serious consequences, such as severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

  After the juice portion of a water fast (or at the end of a juice fast) solid foods may be introduced. Its better to start with breakfast of fruits or of freshly prepared muesli, made by soaking oatmeal in pineapple juice overnight and, the next morning, adding fresh fruit and a dispersion of ground nuts. The other two meals should be of raw or very lightly steamed vegetables. Dr. Loomis notes that many people lose their appetite for meat as well as junk foods on completion of the fast.