To juice cleanse or not, that is the question?

There are lots of obvious benefits to drinking fresh juices; the nutrient dense liquids are a great way to ensure you are getting certain vitamins and minerals throughout the day. However, I really do believe that juices should be an addition to your diet rather that taken as part of a fast.

I find it really difficult not eating anything for 24 hours and often juice cleanses are recommended for 3 days at least. I would suggest that if you want to test your will power and try out a juice cleanse, just do one day and then follow a healthy eating plan for the next 4 days. The 24 hour juice fast will help to kick-start your plan and will allow your bowel to cleanse and therefore absorb more of the nutrients.

Tips on juicing:

1. Try to have a fresh juice every morning. The juice should be mainly vegetable based with one apple to sweeten. This is a great way to start the day as when you wake your blood sugar levels will be low. The juice will balance them out and should prevent sugar cravings throughout the day.

2. Add wheatgrass or matcha powder to your juice. Simply add one tbsp. and blitz it together in a blender. This is an additional vitamin and mineral boost that will set you up for the day.

3. Alternate between juicing yourself and buying fresh juice. Trust me, if you are having to wash that juicer every day you will soon get sick of the sight of it. There are lots of delis and cafes that do brilliant juices, so let them do the hard work occasionally.