During a traditional juice fast, you consume nothing but fresh-squeezed juice and water several times a day to release toxins and promote weight loss. Some variations of the fast could include small amounts of whole fruits and vegetables. You get all of your calories and nutrients from the juice and, while your stomach may feel empty, you should not experience extreme hunger, according to Sandra Cabot, author of "The Juice Fasting Bible." If you do find yourself starving, make some adjustments to your fast. Consult your physician before starting a juice fast.
Step 1
Increase your juice intake. If you are trying for weight loss, you might be tempted to reduce your serving size or increase the intervals between doses to boost fat loss. Drink a full glass of freshly made juice once every two to three hours from the moment you wake up until approximately two hours before bed.
Step 2
Increase your water intake. Water fills your stomach and helps you feel full. Drink a full glass of water with each glass of juice. If you feel hungry between juice doses, drink another full glass of water.
Step 3
Use low-glycemic index fruits and vegetables in your juices. Your body will absorb high-sugar, or high glycemic index, juices faster, which can cause hunger. Low-gylcemic index fruits and vegetables include cherries and grapefruit, as well as all leafy vegetables, bell peppers and broccoli.
Step 4
Add psyllium or ground flax seed to your juice. These substances add bulk to help you feel full and encourage healthy bowel function.
Step 5
Follow a fast that allows small amounts of whole fruits and vegetables if you are fasting for more than seven consecutive days. The whole fruits and vegetables contain fiber that helps you feel full and keeps your bowels healthy.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not fast for more than 30 days without doctor supervision.
Things You'll Need
- Fresh fruits
- Fresh vegetables
- Water
- Psyllium, optional
- Ground flax seed, optional
References
- "The Juice Fasting Bible; Discover the Power of an All-Juice Diet to Restore Good Health, Lose Weight and Increase Vitality"; Sandra Cabot; 2007
- "Green for Life"; Victoria Boutenko, et al.; 2010
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