Juicing and Detox Diets

Should I start juicing or try detox diets?

No, there is no evidence that juicing or a detox diet will prevent or treat cancer.

Juicing is removing the juice from fruits and vegetables using a juicer or blender. It was previously thought that consuming only fresh juice for a prolonged period of time would get rid of all the toxins in the body that might cause cancer. Research shows that detoxes are not necessary or healthy to do¹⁴. Our liver and kidneys play a key role in removing unwanted toxins from our body.

Fruits and vegetables contain a lot of important nutrients that have been shown to reduce cancer risk but to get the full benefit it is better to eat them whole. Juicing removes the important nutrient fibre. Fibre has been linked to lower rates of bowel cancer².

Following a juicing or detox diet may cause more harm than good⁶⁰. These diets usually involve a severe calorie (energy) restriction and cause weight loss. This may impact your own ability to cope with treatment. It is hard to meet your nutritional requirements while following a juicing diet and it is likely that you will miss out on essential food groups such as protein. However, if your diet is low in fruit and vegetables or you are having difficulty chewing or swallowing food during your treatment, juicing can be an option to add valuable nutrients into your diet. Your dietitian will discuss this with you.

It is not recommended to follow a juicing or detox diet if you have been diagnosed with cancer or while under going treatment.