TrueNorth Health Center is located in a peaceful area of Santa Rosa, California. It used to be an old apartment complex but has been turned into a special place for health and wellness. In 2019, my elderly parents and I decided to spend nine days at TrueNorth for water fasting experience to improve our health. This journey was not only about physical well-being but also about finding a calm and supportive environment to make positive changes.
Costs and Coverage at TrueNorth
At TrueNorth Health Center, our water fasting experience started with a warm welcome and a detailed tour of the facility. Even though the building was old, it was impressively clean and well-kept. We quickly felt at home as we settled into a cozy 2-bedroom suite.
Our physician, Dr. Streuker, conducted a thorough evaluation that lasted three hours. This included detailed physical exams and extensive lab tests. The good news was that my parents’ Medicare coverage took care of most of the lab work costs. They only needed to pay for their nightly stay, which was around $150 to $200 per person in 2019.
However, my situation was different. Since I didn’t have Medicare, I had to pay for all my medical expenses out of pocket. For my nine-day stay, including the nightly fees, I spent about $2500.
So, if you’re thinking about visiting, make sure to check with your insurance provider beforehand to understand your coverage and avoid any unexpected costs.
Water Fasting Process at TrueNorth
Before starting our water fasting experience at TrueNorth, we had to wait about four days for our lab results. As a result, out of our nine-day stay, we could only fast for three days. We also had a two-day re-feeding phase, which limited our fasting period.
During this wait, we enjoyed three daily plant-based, SOS-free meals. Even though I was used to eating plant-based, I found the lack of salt to be a new challenge. The meals felt like a daily visit to a salad bar, filled with fresh vegetables and fruits.
One important lesson I learned is to complete any needed lab work before arriving at TrueNorth. This way, you save time, money, and avoid unexpected costs. This experience showed me how important it is to plan ahead for a smoother fasting process.
Challenges of a Three-Day Water Fast
We had the option of juice fasting or water-only fasting, and we chose to go with water. Our water-only fasting experience at TrueNorth began on a Wednesday, and it tested our willpower right from the start. The first day was tough with constant hunger pangs, making it a challenging beginning. By the third day, we started feeling weak and lightheaded.
Interestingly, my parents, despite being in their late eighties, showed surprising strength. My dad, in particular, kept up his daily routine and did his usual 30 push-ups. To pass the time, we played card games, which helped make the experience more manageable. However, by the third day, I started to feel noticeably weak.
We were told that the first three days are the hardest, and it should get easier after that. Unfortunately, since we were only fasting for three days, we didn’t get to see the benefits of a longer fast.
Re-Feeding After Water Fasting at TrueNorth
After completing our water fasting experience at TrueNorth, we entered the re-feeding stage, which lasted two days and came with its own challenges.
For instance, my mother felt nauseous after her first juice. The medical staff at TrueNorth responded quickly and were well-prepared to help. They offered her a different juice, avoiding the celery juice that had caused her discomfort. This prompt action effectively eased her nausea.
As we continued with the re-feeding process, we gradually moved from juices to raw foods. By the third day, we were back to our regular meals. This gradual transition underscored the importance of a well-structured re-feeding plan for a safe and successful recovery.
It also demonstrated how TrueNorth’s approach prioritized the well-being and comfort of its guests, ensuring a smooth end to our water fasting experience.
Exceptional Care
During our stay at TrueNorth, we were impressed by the exceptional care and friendliness of the staff. Their compassion and kindness were remarkable, and they provided round-the-clock care. This made our experience truly special.
Each day, we enjoyed enriching activities like informative lectures, meetings, and health-related videos. We found the lectures to be a major highlight.
Led by knowledgeable doctors, including the founder, Dr. Alan Goldhamer, these sessions covered a wide range of health topics. They explained everything from healthy eating to how our bodies work, making the lectures both fascinating and very informative.
The center also took care of our physical well-being. They offered yoga and stretching classes, which helped us rejuvenate our bodies. This balanced focus on both mental and physical health made our water fasting experience at TrueNorth Health Center truly transformative.
Transformative Wellness at TrueNorth Health Center
TrueNorth Health Center provided a complete water fasting experience that went far beyond just fasting. It was a transformative journey toward wellness, guided by caring professionals, all within a welcoming and unique environment. If you’re looking for a complete health transformation, this center is definitely worth considering.
Our time at TrueNorth not only rejuvenated us but also gave us valuable knowledge about living a healthier life. The expert guidance, caring atmosphere, and focus on overall well-being made this journey unforgettable and life-changing. The center’s approach went beyond traditional medical care, highlighting the importance of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Our stay at TrueNorth Health Center showed us how crucial holistic well-being is, leaving us with lasting lessons and a renewed commitment to our health.
