Fasting is usually practiced for spiritual renewal, cleansing and health improvement or weight loss. Juice fasting is less extreme than water-only fasting and provides the body with nutrients and energy during the process. Harmful byproducts, such as free radicals, are produced when food is converted into energy, according to Matt Mattson, research scientist at the National Institute on Aging. Mattson says that limiting calories or juice fasting can improve the regulation of glucose, lower blood pressure, protect against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, reduce general prevalence of disease and extend your lifespan.
About
According to Dr. Cynthia Foster, alternative medicine expert, a juice fast includes consuming a liquid diet that nourishes the body by solely drinking juices and water. She says that there is usually no restriction on the amount of juice that can be consumed. Juices consist of natural liquid from organic fruits and vegetables, including stems and leaves but no seeds. The duration of juice fasts typically range between 12 to 72 hours. However, under the care of a physician, some juice fasts last up to 28 days.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruit and vegetable juices are high in concentrated nutrients and ideal for enhancing immunity, according to PDR Health. Organic fruits and vegetables are best, due to fewer pesticides and toxins. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly prior to juicing. Popular fruits for a juice fast include green apples, watermelon, pineapple, oranges, kiwi, grapes, cantaloupe, lemon and strawberries. Vegetables often used include beets, carrots, kale, cabbage, celery, radishes, broccoli and spinach. For best results, do not mix acidic fruits with non-acidic fruits or vegetables.
Water
In addition to fruits and vegetables, water is the only other sustenance consumed during a juice fast. Even though water contains no food value, water is paramount in keeping the body hydrated and aiding in the efficiency of bodily functions. According to University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, two quarts of water need to be consumed daily for the body to function properly. During a juice fast, the intestines have little fiber to generate a bowel movement -- and water helps stimulate intestines by keeping the bowels moving.
Warning
Fasting may have a number of unpleasant side effects, including constipation, gastrointestinal irritations, headaches, irritability, mood swings and diarrhea. Additionally, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of juice fasting. Consult your physician prior to beginning a juice fast.
