The Measure of Eating for a Sick Person on Yom Kippur
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Question
I am post-intestinal surgery and have been forbidden to fast. I was told I need to eat a kazayit. It is unclear to me what the size of the food is and how I can measure to ensure I do not exceed the allowed amount, and how often I am allowed to eat a kazayit so that it is considered that I fasted.
Answer
Hello,
The measure of eating for those who need to eat on Yom Kippur is not according to a kazayit, but rather 'less than a kotevet hagasa'.
In practice, the measure is 30 cc of food and 40 cc of drink. This measure should ideally be consumed at intervals of 9 minutes. If one's illness requires eating at shorter intervals, they may eat this measure every 4 minutes, and in cases where even this is not sufficient, they may eat every 2 minutes.
It is important to consult with your doctor whether you need to eat or only drink, and what quantity is necessary throughout the day.
Wishing you a complete recovery and an easy fast.