If I am considering fasting for spiritual benefits, what would Sai Baba's guidance be?

Based on his teachings recorded in Chapter 32, Sai Baba's guidance would be to not undertake the fast. He consistently taught that God is not found in a hungry stomach and that the trouble of fasting and penance was not a path he endorsed. He believed a fasting person's mind is not at peace, which hinders any potential spiritual benefit. His advice was to 'first tie bread to the waist' before contemplating spirituality. Baba would advocate for moderate eating, which he considered 'truly comfortable,' as opposed to excessive fasting, which he called 'terrible' and a cause of 'continuous discomfort.' The strength derived from food is necessary for the senses to engage in devotional practices, so he would advise you to eat first to find the peace and capacity needed for spiritual realization.