The ancient practice of fasting is often set aside today, viewed as unimportant. If it is undertaken at all, it is often done for purely physical benefits. As important as that is, more important is the spiritual benefits of fasting as an act of penance, as well as an act of voluntary suffering engaged for the love of God over self.
Fasting
Man Does Not Live On Bread Alone
Through faithfully practicing the disciplines of Lent—prayer, fasting and almsgiving—we are led not only to more fully understand the meaning of those words but to make them the meaning of our life. Yet we cannot live by the Word of God if we refuse to give free and loving obedience to it; nor can we hear the Word of God if it is squelched by worldly listening.