One thing that’s gaining steady popularity in the vegan world is a juice fast. Basically, it’s all about eating or drinking nothing jut juices. Well, for the most part. This is done over a stipulated period, and the benefits include clear skin, weight loss, and increased immunity.
Some people call it a juice cleanse, but it’s more or less the same thing. A juice fast is all about the great nutrients, vitamins, and minerals embedded in fruits and vegetables. It’s a healthier eating alternative, and it promises nothing but great returns. So the million-dollar question now is, should you go on a juice fast? Well, to answer that, we’ll have to dissect the premise of it.
What it is
Juicing is an extraction process whereby whole fruits, as well as vegetables, are reduced to their liquid (juice) form. There are lots of different fruits and vegetables which make excellent juices. This includes beet, mango, sweet potato, and let’s not forget the infamous green juice of kale and spinach. While we get the vitamins from the liquid, it’s important to note we lose the fiber, which would keep us full. It might also contain way too much sugar, depending on the composition.
How it works
Once you’ve got your recipe, the next step is to get your juicer out. Because you’re just starting you could start with 60% fruits and 40% vegetables then as you progress you could keep increasing the vegetable percentage. With a juice fast, you’re not only expected to eat, breathe, and live juice, but you can also drink as much water as you want. Tea is also allowed. Only solid foods will not be included. However, consult your doctor to see if you’re medically fit to go on a juice cleanse as people who are either pregnant, older, or children should be discouraged from a strict juice fast.
Possible side effects
Juice fasts are designed to detoxify the body, boost immunity, and lose weight. However, once you start, you may likely notice side effects like low blood pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, fainting, and extreme dizziness.
There’s no significant evidence that states that consuming juices is healthier than eating raw fruits and vegetables. However, in the spirit of trying new things and for general wellbeing, you can try it, provided you received medical clearance.
