If you are not already doing it, you probably think you should be. But is juicing really the key to a healthier diet? Here are some pros, cons, and advice from the top nutritionists.
Pros:
- Juices are full of nutrients and enzymes that help fight diseases and promote a healthy immune system.
- Juices provide instant nutrition because they are rapidly absorbed and go to work immediately.
- Juices have high levels of antioxidants which have been linked to lowering the chances of heart disease, cancer, and even Alzheimer’s.
Cons:
- Juicing can sabotage efforts to control blood sugar or lose weight (you must be sure to get your fiber and protein in your juicing regime.) Although, my husband lost 15 lbs in 10 days on the juicing program.
- Juicing can be pricy since you should buy organic fruits and vegetables as you will be eating the whole fruit or vegetable. Also, you will need to buy a good juicer which can run several hundred dollars.
- Juicing can make it easy to overdo it with sugars*
*Sugar is a well-known substance that is harmful to teeth. It is consumed by bacteria in the mouth and converted to an acid which wears away teeth and causes cavities. Dental plaque is the buildup of theses bacteria on the tooth surface. These bacteria can also irritate the gums leading to gum disease which can weaken teeth and may lead to tooth lose. At our Golden, CO dental office we can help deternime what steps you need to take to keep your teeth for a lifetime.
What can you do to prevent damage to your teeth after juicing?
- Always try to gently brush your teeth after drinking fruit juice. This will help remove any excess sugar. You want to be gentle to protect the tooth surface from acid erosion which can be caused from the fruit juices.
- If you are unable to brush, swishing with water will also help remove sugar residue.
- Try drinking from a straw and do not swish your juices. This will minimize contact on the tooth surface.
- Drinking quickly is better than sipping for longer periods of time.
If you want more information about juicing, there are many resources available on the web and in your local library.
HAPPY JUICING!