Decades of research have shown that a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables protects us from chronic diseases,
- Kale juice may improve lipid levels, such as cholesterol, which affect your risk of heart disease.
- Carrot juice may reduce oxidative stress in cells in women treated for breast cancer.
- Citrus-based juices and carrot juice may reduce heart disease risk.
However
- The vitamin, mineral and antioxidant content of a whole fruit, like an apple, is decreased significantly when you peel the skin.
- One extra serving a day of juice may be associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in women.
- Insoluble fiber can promote bowel regularity, lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugars and promote satiety (a sense of fullness) to maintain a healthy weight. Insoluble fiber, however, is lost in the juicing process.
- Excessive intake of juice may cause weight gain and be dangerous for people with diabetes because juice is a concentrated source of calories and sugar.
- Juices don’t have protein, which keeps us full and helps maintain muscle mass for a healthy weight.
“Detox” Facts and Fiction
- Environmental toxins can build up in the body (especially the intestines). FACT
- A “detox” diet is generally low in calories and can result in initial weight loss. FACT
- A “detox” diet is required to cleanse the intestines and body of waste products for good health. FICTION
- Research has confirmed the safety of prolonged juice fasts and detoxification diets. FICTION
The Bottom Line
No published research currently supports the safety or efficacy of juice cleanses or fasts.
You people who do cleanses and fasts amaze me. A friend told me he was doing a cleanse and only drinking honey and water. I get so hungry I eat so often there’s just no way I could do it.