The liver is the only human organ capable of regeneration; it can replace over half its structure within two weeks of an injury. That is good news, because the loss of a liver means certain death, as there is no way for the body to compensate for the key tasks this organ performs. Damage to liver cells can be slowed or halted by healthy lifestyle choices. Although not for everyone (diabetics especially should consult a physician), the juice fast is a good way to rest the liver and help it regenerate.
Juice Fast Benefits
Nutritionist and author Phyllis Balch recommends a juice diet of two to four weeks to aid liver healing and regeneration. Pure organic vegetable and fruit juices will rest the liver, as no fat or protein digestion is required by the body and also because the juice does not contain toxins that stress the liver. In her book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Balch says that anti-oxidants contained in fresh juices aid cellular repair and defend cells against damage by free radicals in the environment. Unlike water fasting, juices provide vitamins, minerals, calories and healthy sugars, so the body can have energy for daily activities. Juice fasting avoids rapid detoxification and weakness that may harm the body and stress organs. Vegetable juices are particularly healing; beets are traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote the regeneration of liver cells.
A high-quality gear juicer, not one that operates by centrifugal force or by blending, is essential for extracting nutrients from vegetables and fruit. Shop online or at a health food store to learn which manufacturers have products that fit your needs and budget.
Conducting the Fast
Even though juice fasting is considered a mild treatment, making a change from a diet of highly processed foods to one of nutrient-rich liquids can be a huge adjustment. Consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables and avoiding all animal sources of protein in the days leading up to the fast will help prepare the body for juice fasting.
Consume at least 32 ounces of pure water per day while on the juice fast, plus juices and up to two cups of herbal tea. If you want, dilute juices with one part water to three parts juice. A total of 64 ounces of fluids or more should be taken per day while on the fast.
Green drinks are excellent detoxifiers and healers. Try romaine lettuce, parsley, celery, cucumber, spinach or kale. Add carrot, beet, tomato or apple to sweeten the taste. Drink green juices when they are fresh; vitamin content is lost very quickly. If storing green juices is necessary, keep them in a dark airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours. Carrot, beet, cabbage and apple juice can all be refrigerated for up to two or three days. Except for apples and tomatoes, do not combine fruit juices with vegetable juices. The juice of one lemon added to a cup of water is beneficial, as are other freshly squeezed citrus, grape and pomegranate juices.
Herbal teas that aid in liver regeneration are alfalfa, burdock, chamomile, dandelion, milk thistle, red clover and rose hips. Licorice may have antiviral properties that defend against hepatitis, but do not use this potent herb for more than 10 days. Teas can be sweetened with honey or stevia.
Ending the Fast
It is important to follow the juice fast with a diet of fresh fruit and vegetables. Do not consume other foods for two days, or at least until a good bowel movement is produced. First meals should be small and frequent, because the amount of digestive juices has decreased while fasting. If cooked starches and proteins are eaten immediately, blockage may occur and any benefits of the juice diet will be lost.
To continue liver regeneration, avoid meat, milk and eggs and eat a plant-based diet of 50 to 75 percent raw fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Constipation doubles the liver's workload; a high- fiber diet and plenty of fluids will help you avoid this common condition. Alcohol, drugs of any kind, smoking and fried foods are all harmful to the liver.
0 comments:
Post a Comment