The general understanding is that the significance of the fast is in the discipline , NOT in its severity. Ideally fasting should not be visible to others, but obviously this is not always possible. And any unusual fast should only be undertaken with the approval of one's spiritual director and under a doctor's supervision. Dress and entertainment should at least be simplified. Finally, Lenten fasting is itself a form of prayer.
Some persons have trouble getting the point here.
But sometimes this crowds out non-verbal acts of prayer. Doing the act is a prayer. That is, it is a way of relating to God. Keeping Lent can be an enriching experience over against our very secular, materialistic and self-indulgent society. Have a Good Lent.