juice: picture: pexels
For some, the idea of skipping solid food sounds like a nightmare; for others, it’s a wellness trend worth exploring. Liquid fasting—where meals are swapped for juices, broths, or smoothies—has gained popularity as a way to reset the body, give digestion a break, or even kickstart a healthier lifestyle.
However, is it a magic solution or just another diet fad? Like any health trend, it comes with its pros and cons, and understanding how it works (and whether it’s right for you) is key. After all, surviving on liquids alone isn’t just about willpower—it’s about doing it safely and smartly.
Very Well Health defines the liquid fast, also known as a full liquid diet as a low-stress, nutritionally dense diet that promotes healing of the digestive tract. It is claimed to include clear fluids like water and apple juice, as well as thicker ones like milk, shakes, and smoothies.
It is further mentioned that the diet requires no chewing and is suitable for those who cannot chew or consume soft or solid foods. The above source continues to state that healthcare providers may prescribe a full liquid diet for individuals with specific medical conditions or recovering from injuries or procedures, such as swallowing, chewing, severe mouth or throat sores, and digestion issues.
Clear liquid diets are often prescribed for tests or procedures requiring an empty stomach or clear intestines, such as colonoscopy or surgery, and may be recommended for individuals with digestive issues, adds the Mayo Clinic.
According to Eating Well, the liquid fast can help lose weight in the short term, but can also lead to quick weight gain. It is stated to provide structure and may lead to greater weight loss than standard nutrition programs. “There are certainly studies that show the benefits of juice on antioxidant concentration and anti-inflammatory mechanisms in the human body, but it’s generally in the presence of a healthy diet or other solid foods. The biggest problem is that people think they are ‘detoxing’ their organs, which just isn’t how your liver, kidneys or any other organ works.”
The above publication further warns that liquid diets can be challenging and have several risks, including feeling light-headed or dizzy, consuming too few calories, lacking important nutrients, not being sustainable long-term, and lacking satiety. Juices, while providing vitamins and minerals, are said to lack fibre, fat, and protein, which are essential for a healthy body.
