Juice Cleanse

What is a Juice Cleanse and Why Do it?

Juice cleanses, also known as juicing, is a diet that consists of liquefied fruits and vegetables. It acts as a meal replacement for a traditional meal. The juice from the fruits and vegetables are extracted, leaving behind the plant material. Juicing shouldn’t be confused with smoothies. Smoothies are the blending of fruits and vegetables with juices. Juicing makes consuming the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables very easy. For those that do not enjoy eating fruits and vegetables, this is a good alternative. There are dozens of prepared juicing programs on the market, finding one that fits your personal tastes won’t be a challenge.

Downside to Juicing

While juicing is a more convenient way to consume the daily-recommended servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, it is very expensive to maintain. Buying prepackaged juice programs can take as much of a toll on your wallet as a juicing machine for home. One may be more favorable than the other and take less work, but in the long run, they will equal each other out in upkeep. One advantage juicing at home has over store bought juices, is that raw juice has more nutrients overall. Packaged juices are pasteurized, which implements heat to kill harmful bacteria and also keep the product edible for longer.

Much of the natural fiber found in the plant’s skin and lost during the juicing process. Juice cleanses are totted as a healthy weight loss solution that takes little effort. A juice cleanse can help you shed a few pounds, but there’s a cost. An all-juice diet is high in sugar and will not provide adequate amounts of fats, carbohydrates and protein, all of which are necessary for daily function. Meaning that you’ll lose muscle mass, feel lethargic and your blood glucose levels will skyrocket if you follow an all-juice diet for an extended period. Remember, the shorter the juicing cycle the better.

For More Information:

Is a Juice Cleanse Right for You?  [Real Simple]

Juicing Pros and Cons [CNN]

Dangers of Juice Cleanses [Live Science]