In its limited and special sense, abstinence is the depriving of oneself of certain kinds of food, in a reasonable manner, for the purpose of benefiting the soul. It differs from fasting in that a fast limits the quantity of food, whereas abstinence affects only the kind of food. The Church law regarding abstinence does not forbid foods because they are impure; it considers abstaining a means of spiritual good; it is reasonable in demand and application. The law of abstinence is binding to all over 14 years of age; the obligation to abstain, to fast, i.e., limiting oneself to but one full meal and two lighter meals in a full day is binding on all Catholics from the age of 21 to 59 years. It forbids the eating of meat and soups of meat stock, gravy and sauces of meat. On days of complete abstinence, these foods may not be eaten at all. On days of partial abstinence, these foods may be eaten at the principal means. Dispensation from the law extends to every member of the armed forces in active service and to his wife, children, parents or servants if he resides with them habitually, whether on or off the post of his duty, except on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and the vigil of Christmas. Dispensations are also given to pregnant and nursing mothers, ill persons, and those traveling. This dispensation may be obtained from one’s parish priest or confessor if reason for not following the law exists. Since Feb 23, 1966, it has been authorized that a substitution of other works of penance may take the place of the observance of abstinence and fast on appointed days of the year. In the United States, the National Conference of Bishops has designated Ash Wednesday and Good Friday as days of fast and abstinence, and all Fridays of Lent as days of abstinence. The decision regarding Ember days as days of penance or abstinence rests with the Conference of Bishops.