Officials at the Taipei Detention Center in Taipei County said Chen ate about 500cc of rice congee plus some small dishes yesterday morning.

They decided to check his blood pressure every two or three days instead of three times every day as in the past week.

Chen, who avowed his innocence, started a hunger strike after he was detained 18 days ago to protest what he claimed to be politically motivated charges against him and his family.

He was rushed to hospital for emergency treatment before being taken back to the detention house.

Chen ended his fast and resumed eating last Thursday.

Officials said Chen now seems to be in good spirit and has spent of his waking hours on writing.