What does the Church mean by fasting?

[mmd1014]

I would like to know the appropriate ways to fast according to our Catholic faith.
Is it supposed to be just bread and water for the day?
Does it mean abstaining from a loved food or activity?

I am a beginner at wanting to fast. Several people I know have said that their prayers for people are more effective with fasting so I want to make sure it’s done as it should be done.

I’ve been Catholic my whole life but have been learning alot in the last few years and want to continue to draw more close to our Lord to do His will.

Thank you for your help.

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

Fasting means we can have only one full meal. Some food can be taken at the other regular meal times if necessary, but combined they should be less than a full meal. Liquids are allowed at any time, but no solid food should be consumed between meals.

That’s a technical understanding of what the Church means by fasting. For a spiritual point of view: Rev. Daniel Merz’s A Reflection on Lenten Fasting.