Fasting for 41 days with only water and some salt can lead to significant weight loss and cleansing effects on the body, especially if there is enough fat stored. The emotional tie to fasting, like doing it for a loved one, can provide the motivation to continue even when feeling hungry. The body can survive on fat reserves alone during such extended fasting periods. While not suitable for everyone, fasting can have health benefits, particularly in the short term, for those who are physically capable of enduring it.