Abstinence

the act or habit of refraining. from something to which we have a propensity, or in which we find pleasure; but ‘it is more particularly applied to the privation or sparing use of food. Abstinence has been enjoined and practiced for various Abt; ends, as sanitary, moral, or religious. Abstinence of flesh on certain days is obligatory in the Roman Catholic Church. The time during which life can be supported under total abstinence from food or drink, is usually stated to vary from eight to ten days; the period may, however, be greatly prolonged.