The benefits of a juice cleanse have been praised by many seeking to detoxify the body or lose weight. And while consuming only juice for three, seven or even 10 days can have some advantages, there are also some potential risks. Here are some considerations for both the pros and cons of a juice cleanse.
The potential benefits of a juice cleanse
Although marketers push juicing plans as having the ability to flush out toxins, most don’t specify which toxins. Still, there are some known benefits of consuming juices in general.
- Both fruits and benefits have plenty of vitamins and minerals, which can boost overall health.
- The anti-inflammatory properties in juices can give you more energy and boost the immune system.
- The healthy enzymes in juices can aid digestion and make the gut work more efficiently.
Possible risks associated with a juice cleanse
As with anything, moderation is the key. Doing a long-term juice cleanse can do more harm than good, depending on the individual. Here are a few risks associated with doing a juice cleanse without a doctor’s supervision.
- Not everyone needs to lose weight and juice cleanses are often low in calories. Decreasing your caloric income can cause a sudden weight loss. Insufficient calories can cause low blood sugar and symptoms such as dehydration, weakness, hunger, headaches and fainting.
- Some juices contain oxalate, which can contribute to kidney stones or other kidney-related issues.
- A juice cleanse that includes laxatives or other types of bowel stimulant can lead to a loss of nutrients in your stool. This, in turn, can cause an imbalance in electrolytes and dehydration.
- If you choose a juice that’s unpasteurized or don’t use another treatment to remove bacteria, your risk of illness increases, especially if you already have weakened immune system.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a medical doctor or dietician before changing your diet.
