Juice Therapy

Abstaining from food for an extended period of time is an ancient practice believed by many to “cleanse” the soul and body. Juice therapy is the abstention from all solid foods and substances other than the juices of fruits and vegetables.

Benefits of Juice Therapy

It is believed that the body’s immune system is able to work more effectively when the digestive system is resting. While the body's physiologic system is at rest, the body can rid itself of toxins and other impurities. Consuming only juice allows the stomach to take a break from digesting food, which, in itself, uses a lot of energy.

Juice can provide the calories and vitamins necessary for the basic functioning of the body during the fast and some experience increased energy and a euphoric or light feeling while undergoing the fast. Because of the calories found in juice, hunger pains are usually kept to a minimum.

For the severely obese, a juice fast can provide rapid weight loss which may be necessary before a surgery or other medical procedure in which weight may be an impediment. Fasting should not be considered a means to permanent weight loss.

Juice is also an effective means of providing nutrients and calories to patients who are unable to hold down solid food.

Dangers of Juice Therapy

Extended juice fasting is known to cause a rapid heart-beat, flushing of the skin, fatigue, dizziness and anemia. Because there is no fat or protein in juices, the body cannot go for an extended time without these substances. The act of chewing and swallowing is important for the maintenance of the teeth and digestive muscles.

Diabetic patients must maintain a balance of sugars. Because juices are high in sugar, a juice fast may not be appropriate for diabetics.

Without the cushion of solid food, acidic juices such as those made from citrus fruits and tomatoes, may aggravate the stomach.

Juice fasting is commonly believed to aid cancer patients. The American Cancer Society does not support juice fasting and doctors do not recommend fasting for far-advanced cancer patients. As with any self-prescribed medical procedure, a trusted doctor should be consulted before the fast is undergone and the patient’s health should be carefully monitored.