Orthodox Lent: Plant-Powered Fasting for Health

0:00It's April 18th. This is Canada News today, your AI-powered local news. Every year, millions of Orthodox Christians worldwide dive into a 40-day Lenton fast before Easter, switching to a mostly vegan diet that skips. Meat, dairy, eggs, and fish with backbones. Oil and wine get the boot on weekdays, too, turning meals into a plant-powered Mediterranean vibe. This year in Greece, the fast-kicked-off February 23rd, running through Holy Week from April 5th to 11th, right before Easter. On my Catholic Lent, where folks pick one bad habit to drop, Orthodox rules hit animal products hard, but allow shellfish like shrimp and octopus. Monks at spots like the monastery of St. Augustine and Seraphim take it to the next level, growing their own zucchini and tomatoes for oil-free dishes, like tahini-coated potatoes and hearty lentil soups eaten amid prayers. The avid calls it soul-training, sharpening focus and self-control, just like gym-time builds muscle.

1:00Studies on these fasting habits show perks like better digestion from extra fiber, lower risks for heart issues and diabetes when you load up on. Veggies, grains, and legumes, nutritionists stress balancing what you do eat, suggesting global twists like oatmeal porridge or veggie wraps, but warn it's not for kids, seniors, pregnant folks, or anyone with health issues. Even McDonald's in Greece rolls out shrimp salads and plant burgers to fit the rules, while markets overflow with olives, chickpeas, and squid. It's a communal reset that sparks healthier habits, proving a short plant-based stint can recharge your plate long after the fast ends.