People follow juice fasts for several reasons, typically having to do with weight loss or detoxification. The Mayo Clinic asserts that detox, or detoxification, diets -- in which people fast or consume only liquids to rid their body of toxins -- have no scientific research proving their effectiveness. However, drinking fresh fruit and vegetable juices is part of a healthy diet that centers around plant-based foods. Adding herbs to your juices increases their health benefits.
Powerful Herbs
Dr. Leo Galland, Director of the Foundation for Integrated Medicine, has identified two common herbs that do more than add flavor to your beverages during a juice fast. He names parsley as a top herb for raising your body's level of antioxidants. He also cites cilantro for its ability to control blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol levels, battle harmful bacteria and aid in detoxification.
Dr. Oz's Recommendations
Nutritional expert Dr. Mehmet Oz lists several international herbs as ideal complements to a healthy diet, including a juice fast. He cites the herb purslane, popular in Turkey, for its anti-inflammatory benefits. He says rosemary leaves build immunity and promote healthy joints, saffron is an antioxidant that fights cancer, and horseradish aids in digestion, detoxifies your blood and accelerates the passage of bile from your gallbladder to your intestine.
Herbal Teas
Consider broadening your juice fast to include unsweetened herbal teas, either from fresh or dried herbs. Combine chamomile, alfalfa, burdock, red clover, dandelion, milk thistle and rose hips into tea that cleanses your bloodstream.
Fresh Is Best
When picking or shopping for herbs, inspect them closely. The freshest herbs provide more health benefits and have a better flavor than those that have rotted or wilted. Select bunches with bright green leaves. When possible, opt for organic herbs rather than their commercial counterparts.
Considerations
A prolonged juice fast can sap you of the necessary nutrients and calories you require to stay healthy and energized. If you experience exhaustion, nausea, dizziness or dehydration, speak with your doctor. A healthy, diverse diet that you can sustain in the long term includes sources of protein and whole grains as well as fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs.
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