Jews, historically what does it mean when someone fasts?

There are a number of avenues to fasting; however, fasting from food is the most common form of fasting. Fasting can be achieved in many ways. Some have fasted from twenty-four hours to fasting for forty days. In the Old Testament, Daniel fasted from meat, unnatural sugars and dairy products; where as others have chosen to fast from all food except from water. The purpose of fasting is to dethrone the stomach, and exalting God's throne in your life. The Bible also says that some prayers are only blessed through fasting and prayer. The most important aspect of the fasting process is the prayer. It is not simply the fasting of food, but this process is used to clear ones' mind, allowing them to focus on God and finding His will. Simply fasting and not including the prayer is a glorified diet.