Juice cleanses: Are they the right weight loss choice for you?

Juice cleanses have become an interesting fad in weight loss, and with quick weight loss being one of the benefits, it’s no wonder it has become so popular.

Is a juice cleanse right for you?

Many that choose to try a juice cleanse have a hard time because it involves absolutely no solid foods. Being that I’ve never personally tried it, I assume that would be the biggest challenge. But, juicing yields results rather quickly.

Most lose between five and ten pounds during a week-long cleanse, though as soon as they begin eating solids again it usually comes back.

One of the good things about juicing is that you will consume more phytonutrients, simply because you are consuming more fruits and vegetables than you would normally. Phytonutrients contain antioxidants, enhance the immune system and intercellular communication, and help repair DNA damage. But, surviving on juice alone is not enough for the human body.

We need fiber, protein, and healthy fats in order for our bodies to function properly. Many who are on a juice cleanse report headaches, irritability, nausea, dehydration, and blurry vision. It is said that these negative side effects are caused by toxins leaving the body, but according to Joy Dubost of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “It’s not a sign that the body is detoxifying, rather, it’s a result of a poor diet and a lack of nutrients to sustain a person.”

Ultimately, the goal of juicing is weight loss, which is achievable. ”A person might see results on the scale after doing a juice cleanse, but the loss is more water and muscle weight, and potentially over time, someone could lose bone mass,” Dubost said.

“It’s also not lasting weight loss: Once a person completes their cleanse and starts eating again, they could gain the pounds right back.”

But, when considering going on a juice cleanse, it is important to weigh the positives and negatives. If you decide that it is for you, remember that you should gently ease in and out of the cleanse. Jumping from eating cheeseburgers and burritos, to only drinking fruit and vegetable juice can be jarring for the body, and make you sick.

So, if you’re trying to lose a few pounds for an upcoming vacation and you’re not seeking long-term results, maybe this is for you.

For long-term health and fitness, you’ll need to accept a sustainable lifestyle change as the only solution.

Source:

http://www.livescience.com/48941-juice-cleanses-fact-fiction.html