Ekadashi Fasting:

Observing fasting and engaging in devotional service on Ekadashi (known as Hari Vasara Tithi) greatly pleases Lord Krishna, who grants blessings for spiritual advancement to those who observe it. 
 
Originally, Ekadashi was observed by fasting throughout the entire day without consuming even water (known as Nirjala), while performing various devotional activities. Considering the health conditions and the demands of a fast-paced life, our Acharyas have mercifully given some concessions on certain food items on Ekadashi days.

These following foods items are permitted for individuals who are unable to completely fast.

"One may fast or honor allowed eatables namely - all fruits & raw nuts, boiled peanuts, boiled potatoes, papaya, unripened banana, sweet potatoes. One may use Ghee or pure Peanut oil, Milk and homemade made Yoghurt (Milk used to make the Yoghurt should not contain any added vitamins). One can use green chili, ginger and fresh black pepper in cooking. On Dvadasi days, the fast must be broken at the appropriate time as specified in the Vaishnava Calendar for the city where the devotee resides. Please avoid iodized salt and use sea salt or pink salt (rock salt)"

Whether one is fasting or not, it is strongly advised for anyone seeking spiritual progress to participate in devotional activities such as chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, and reading or listening to the Shreemad Bhagavatam/Shreemad Bhagavad Gita. 
 
In one of the spiritual discourses, Respected Shreela Gurudeva explains that Shreeman Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Himself has highlighted the importance of observing Ekadashi to His Divine Mother Shreemati Śaci Devi. The following translations of the verses from Shree Chaitanya Charitamrta (Adi Lila: Chapter 15 verses 8-10) describes this:

One day Shree Chaitanya Mahāprabhu fell down at the feet of His mother and requested her to give Him one thing in charity. His mother replied, “My dear son, I will give You whatever You ask.” Then the Lord said, “My dear mother, please do not eat grains on the Ekādaśī day.” Mother Śacī said, “You have spoken very nicely. I shall not eat grains on Ekādaśī.” From that day, she began to observe fasting on Ekādaśī.

Breaking the Fast:

Ekadasi fasting must be broken by taking grain Prasada the next day (Dvadasi) within a specific period of time (Parana), calculated for each Dvadasi. 

Please see Vaishnava Calendar for Ekadashi days and Parana timing.

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