Gluttony or Sacrifice

Are Lenten Foods Having the Opposite Effect?

This post lands on the brink of the most indulgent days of the year—Mardi Gras. Maybe you're in party mode, and if so, perhaps Ash Wednesday is a better time to read this. But whenever you do, I invite you to reflect deeply on the purpose of Lenten fasting.

I love this season of the Church because it calls us to transformation, to shed what distracts us from God and lean into sacrifice. Yet, when I look at how Lenten fasting is commonly practiced today—especially with Fish Fridays—I wonder: Have we missed the mark?

The Shift Away from True Sacrifice

Traditionally, fasting and abstinence had meaning because rich, nourishing, animal-based foods were prioritized, and stepping away from food through fasting marked sacrifice. But in today’s world, where processed foods dominate our diets, we’ve turned Lenten meals into something that does the opposite of what they were meant to achieve.

Instead of stepping away from indulgence, many turn to fried fish, processed treats, and sugary sodas—foods that keep us physically, mentally, and even spiritually sluggish. The Standard American Diet (SAD) doesn’t support fasting; it keeps us trapped in cycles of cravings, blood sugar swings, and emotional instability. How can we embrace true sacrifice when the very foods we eat leave us weakened and dependent?

Rediscovering the Spirit of Fasting

True fasting isn’t about swapping one type of indulgence for another. It’s about freeing ourselves from what weighs us down so we can turn our hearts fully to God. I’ve witnessed the power of aligning my nutrition with our ancestral roots—focusing on nutrient-dense, animal-based foods that nourish rather than deplete. When I made this shift, fasting became possible, even freeing.

A young Amish man I coached who transitioned to animal-based nutrition shared his testimony:

“I didn't know I could feel like this. I felt like I was in a dark hole with no way out, and now there is hope. Eating animal-based food made it possible for me to fast. Before, skipping meals would guarantee a migraine. Now, my prayer life has grown because I can focus. My thoughts are clearer, my emotions steadier, and my relationships stronger.”

The Lenten Spirit is about the heart. But to get to the heart, we must first meet the needs of the body. How can we be spiritually strong when we are physically weak and dependent on foods that harm us?

Take Action: Make This Your Most Transformative Lent

For those struggling with SAD food addictions: This is the perfect season to detach from the foods causing distress. Begin by stepping away from seed oils, sugars, and/or processed grains. Begin to step into your role as steward of your wellness story. If you need guidance, check out my post on unlocking your true heart’s desire: Unlock Your True Heart’s Desire.

For those already prioritizing animal-based nutrition…

Consider these three fasting options for Ash Wednesday and Fridays, along with drinking water:

• Eat simple foods – One to two meals of eggs or seafood cooked in butter. Add some vegetables and fruit if they align for you.
• Butter fast – Nourish yourself with just bits of butter for the day.
• Full fast – Eat nothing, embracing the call to deeper sacrifice.

This Lent, step away from what holds you back and into the abundant life awaiting you. True fasting is not just about food—it’s about freeing yourself to focus on what matters most: your relationship with God.

True transformation is only a Return to Simple away.
Stay True-Hearted, my friends!

– Kim VanDolah

Learn more and schedule your free Return to Simple session with me today!