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The Pros & Cons of Fasting


Question :

What are advantages and disadvantages in fasting (juice) once per week?

Answer :

Fasting allows the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to rest and detoxify. The lighter the food processed, the more it can concentrate on detoxifying. I think we all have toxins built up in our systems these days...they just can't be avoided. Fasting once a week may be a little excessive; once a month is ideal.

Use fresh produce, unsprayed if possible, and consider vegetable combinations with a bit of fruit instead of all fruit juice, which is a lot of sugar. Carrot is pretty sweet too, you'd be surprised.

Disadvantages for a newcomer to the idea is that you can have withdrawal symptoms from giving up daily foods, and that can be uncomfortable. I can't think of too many other disadvantages, unless you are allergic to the juice.

Don't forget to come chat live with the Nutrition Physician every Monday at 1pm eastern, under 'Fitness'. For you AOL-types, we also chat live on Wednesday nights at 9pm eastern. Go to keyword 'nutrition physician' and click on the chats under 'fitness' (or you can go to our AOL bulletin board there). The Women's Network has it all!

Good Health, ANSpreen, MD (The Nutrition Physician)

 

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