As a catholic we are to do of 40 days of abstinence, meatless Tuesdays and Friday's. Abstinence means if you eat before 2 cups of Rice now that you are observing abstinence you can make it into one cup. For those who are physically fit they can do fasting but for those who are sick, or those who are not physically fit, those who are old, those people who are like soldier's that are in battle and those who are children below 13th years old are exempted to do fasting. The real essence of fasting or abstinence is not really on the food but the differ meaning is how you observed self-purification. Like avoiding committing sin, give alms to the beggars or give some of your extra food to those who don't have food or less fortunate. Avoid arguments or fights. A time for self-control and make peace. If before you do making LOVE to your wife every day, then if you are observing abstinence then make it once a week. It is about sacrifice also to those things you love or like to do.