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30-Day Juice Fast for Weight Loss

May 31, 2011 | By Leah Webber
30-Day Juice Fast for Weight Loss
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A juice fast is a form of "detoxification" diet. Juicing is thought to cleanse the body because the only thing being consumed is a nutrient-dense liquid, with no food volume. Dr. Elson Haas mentions in his book, ''Staying Healthy With Nutrition,'' that he believes fasting is not used enough in the medical world. In his opinion, fasting is a natural method of healing body and mind from many ailments, including obesity. On the other hand, medical professionals such as registered dietitian Katherine Zeratsky for MayoClinic.com, write that there is little evidence that juice fasting works for either weight loss or internal body cleansing. Juice fasting deprives the body of needed calories, fat, protein and carbohydrates, which is why it sometimes leads to weight loss. A 30-day juice fast is considered extreme and is potentially dangerous. Do not attempt to do a juice fast for weight loss with out consulting a physician.

Possible Benefits

Naturopathic doctor Mike Murray, in his book ''The Complete Book of Juicing,'' claims a 30-day juice fast has numerous health benefits. Murray says the nutrient-rich juice requires almost no digestion and is absorbed easily in the body. He explains that raw vegetable juices are alkalizing, which can help reduce acidity and control inflammatory conditions and symptoms. Murray also states that the soluble fiber in fresh juices can help reduce LDL cholesterol and that juicing is supportive of anti-aging due to its high concentration of antioxidants. While he states that the benefits of juicing could be felt within 30 days if added to a wholesome diet, Murray does not suggest that a juice fast is a safe method of weight loss for any longer than three to five days. Instead, he suggests juice fasting for a short period of time as a kick-off to a healthy diet and exercise plan for weight loss.

Juicing Ingredients

Some foods used in juices during a 30-day juice fast may have qualities that can be beneficial for weight loss and overall health. In his book, Murray provides details for many foods, like ginger, which has strong immune support qualities and may help lower cholesterol if consumed regularly. He also touts juice from onions, garlic, tomatoes and radishes for their mild antibiotic qualities. His book states that string beans contain a substance that is similar to insulin, which helps to control blood sugar imbalances. Since he does not suggest fasting on juice for more than a few days, the effects these foods have on weight loss is undetermined in his expertise. The medicinal benefits of juicing could be felt within 30 days of regular consumption, but Murray does not suggest a 30-day juice fast for weight loss. Juices cannot replace pharmaceutical medicines used to control diseases or chronic health conditions.

Dangers of Juicing

While drinking fresh juice as part of a complete diet can be healthful, fasting on them can pose dangers. Based on the recipes in Murray's book, most juices contain calories ranging from the low 30s to about 200. Drinking five or six juices per day would only amount to a maximum of around 1,200 calories. A diet that has fewer than 1,200 calories daily is approaching a dangerously low caloric intake, notes Haas, and can result in lost muscle mass and a decreased metabolism if continued for more than a few days. The evidence suggests that while the ingredients have health benefits, the physical results of a 30-day juice fast may contradict the traditional goals of weight loss, including a fit body and an efficient metabolism. Symptoms of detoxification are known to occur during fasting programs such as the 30-day juice fast, according to Murray. Reported symptoms include headaches, low blood sugar, tiredness, acne, and constipation or loose stools.

Precautions

Attempting a 30-day juice fast for weight loss is considered extreme and is potentially dangerous. Talk to your doctor about potential dangers such as dehydration and malnutrition. Severe cases of dehydration can lead to delirium or unconsciousness. A 30-day juice fast for weight loss is not considered a safe practice. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding should not go on a juice fast. If you have blood sugar problems, kidney disease, GI tract issues, anemia, infections, recent surgery, cardiovascular disease, cancer or eating disorders should also not attempt a juice fast, as it may worsen the condition. Do not attempt a 30-day juice fast for weight loss without consulting a physician for approval and necessary medical supervision.

References

Article reviewed by Elizabeth Ahders Last updated on: May 31, 2011

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