One of the most popular diet suggestions is juicing. But, there are several things that you should know before you try it. First, you must understand that depending on the plan, you might be replacing one or all of your meals with freshly squeezed juices. Second, you must also understand that these diets are difficult if not impossible to follow for a long period of time. They should not be used by anyone who is doing competitive or intense workouts, anyone who is recovering from any kind of illness or recent surgery.

Some people suggest a total juice diet as a detoxifying cleanse. That is not necessary because the liver works to detoxify your system each and every day. And, living on nothing but juice can cause issues with diarrhea which in turn increases your risk of dehydration, anemia and may open you to more serious illness. Because you are using just the juice and not the pulp, you are also missing out on nutrients, antioxidants and more.

Experts are also concerned that many of the juice diets are extremely low in calorie- for one or two days just before starting a new, healthier eating plan may be acceptable but trying to go more than a few days on juice alone is potentially dangerous. But, there are less extreme ways to use juicing which can make it a healthy part of the overall diet.

Instead of relying entirely on juice alone it is possible to use one glass of juice per day as part of a healthy and well balanced diet. That juice can help you get to the recommended number of fruits and vegetables a day, an issue with many people, even those with the best intentions. To make sure that the juice is healthy, only use organic, fresh fruits and vegetables and if possible, include some of the peels. Make sure that you are counting the calories of your juice in your overall daily intake because it is very easy to forget liquids. That amnesia can lead to weight gain even if you are eating a healthy diet.

A final warning about pre-made juices. If you are opting for juice bars or other resources for the juices you are drinking, make sure that you know what is in them, including the exact calorie count and sugar content. Some of these prepared juices have as much sugar as a soda without any of the real nutrition of homemade juice.Always read labels.