The Miracle of Juice Fasting for Crohn’s Disease, Colitis, Celiac and IBS

November 22, 2008

The Miracle of Juice Fasting for Colitis and IBS

I enjoy a good meal and a glass of red wine as much as the next person – so forgoing those two things has never been very high on my to-do list!  But when you get sick with ulcerative colitis (like I did), you get so desperate, you’ll try anything.

I was born in Russia, and I knew that, for hundreds of years, supervised fasting has been used with great success as part of European medical treatments. The first time I personally tried fasting was in 1989. Twenty-one days of juice fasting together with medicinal enemas, nutritional supplements and herbs healed my supposedly “incurable” Pancolitis.  My intestinal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, and joint pain vanished. I felt energetic and excited about being alive. Juice fasting saved my life and healed my soul.

I realized Hippocrates, the father of Western Medicine was right: fasting allows the body to heal itself.

Why Does Fasting Work?

When we stop eating our usual 3 meals a day, and start consuming live, raw juices our bodies spend all that extra energy (used to digest food) on detoxification, including purging from drugs, chemicals from personal care products, mucus, bacteria, parasites in our intestines, and food additives and preservatives.

The Benefits of Fasting

Fasting allows our major organs (e.g. colon, liver, kidney, lungs, and skin) to release and eliminate toxins. Fasting promotes the formation of new, healthy cells. It can be used as a method of healing from acute and chronic illness or as a disease prevention tool for healthy people. Fasting can reverse the aging process for the middle-aged and elderly. Your body has a built-in mechanism of breaking down and digesting diseased tissues and damaged cells. After all the garbage in our system is disposed of, the body starts building new, healthy organs and tissues. The raw power of juice also purifies the blood, removes the waste from large intestine, and rejuvenates the endocrine system.

Fasting is highly effective for the following conditions:

  • Food allergies/Sensitivities
  • Asthma
  • Arthritis
  • IBS/Celiac Disease/IBD
  • Flus/Colds/Fever
  • Constipation
  • Migraine Headaches
  • Skin problems (eczema, psoriasis)
  • Back problems (sciatica, low back pain)

How Often Should You Do Juice Fasting?

Juice fast 1x/week for one month, then expand to 2 days/week, once a month. Seven day fasts can be done 4 times/year, at the beginning of each season: Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.

How to Juice Fast

To prepare for a fast longer than 24 hours, eat vegetables and some low-sugar fruits for at least 3 days before embarking on 3-14 days fast. While fasting, consume hot herbal teas and hot vegetable broths, in addition to fresh vegetable juice. To improve the absorption of the juice, I would recommend diluting fresh juice with some water in a ration of 75% juice and 25% water.

Juice Fasting vs. Water Fasting

Juice fasting is much easier than water fasting. A water fast puts more stress on your vital organs (kidney, liver, heart and intestines) by promoting a faster release of acids (eg. uric acids) and toxins.  This process itself could be overwhelming for a person who is doing fasting for the first time. Raw juices supply much needed vitamins, minerals and enzymes, improves cell oxygenation and promotes recovery from sickness.

Side Effects of a Juice Fast

Be aware that during a fast, as a part of the body’s tissue cleansing process, you may experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Coated tongue
  • Metallic taste in the mouth
  • Headaches/Dizziness
  • Mucus discharge from sinuses and bowel
  • Diarrhea/Fever/Fatigue
  • Dark, foul smelling urine and feces
  • Joint aches and pain

Do not be alarmed – this is a part of the internal detoxification process. Those symptoms are not dangerous and should go away after couple of days. Using colon therapy for the first 3-5 days will help you to minimize all those unpleasant physical symptoms. Stop fasting if your experience vomiting and diarrhea for more than a day! The possibility of dehydration is too high and might become dangerous for the faster.

Who Should Avoid Fasting?

Individuals with the following health conditions should avoid juice fasting:

  • Anorexia
  • Malnutrition
  • Peptic Ulcers
  • Tuberculosis
  • After Surgery
  • HIV an Chronic Infections
  • Type I Diabetes
  • Advanced Stage of Cancer
  • Pregnant and Lactating Women
  • Acute or Chronic Kidney Disease
  • Patients taking prescription medications should consult their doctor

Galina’s Patient Case Study

Patient: M.L. 8-year-old girl

Condition: Asthma

The Case Study: This lovely 8-year-old girl suffered from a serious asthmatic condition. She was regularly using inhalers, and sleeping in a sitting position to prevent asthma attacks. As a last resort, her pediatrician recommended steroids (corticosteroids) to control her asthma.

I suggested a 2-day juice fast using diluted vegetable juices, followed by a special diet (no gluten, dairy, sugar, eggs, or peanuts). Plus, I prescribed special supplements to heal the lung tissue and to strengthen the immunity. After 30 days, she was able to be taken off all medication, and she slept peacefully lying down in her bed. She was rollerblading and skating for hours with her friends. Her parents were so happy to see their daughter enjoying her childhood to the fullest.

Galina’s Conclusion

It is prudent for a person with chronic, debilitating disease to undertake FIRST TIME juice fasting therapy while under the care of a medical professional experienced in fasting. Detoxification can be overwhelming, and may temporarily increase various symptoms of the disease.

73 Responses

  2. Dear Alyssa:
    I have observed thin people unable to gain weight on lots of “good nourishing food”, and I have seen really skinny people gain weight after supervised fasting, eating much less food than he or she has been used to eating. Inability to gain weight is usually a result of poor digestion and absorption of food and not of insufficient calorie consumption. When used properly under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner, fasting can dramatically improve your ability to digest and assimilate food. But do not forget that the cause of impaired digestion should be identified first before the fast is initiated. Fasting should not be undertaken if person has the following conditions: vomiting and diarrhea, anorexia, Type I diabetes, chronic kidney disease, pregnant and lactating women, malnutrition, advanced stage of cancer, post-surgery, HIV.
    Galina

  3. I fast to stop my IBS. I have to do it once a year, but it really works. It’s not easy but it’s better than suffering with the bloated painful stomach of IBS.
    It really works…I do a 3 day fast of a combo of carrots/apple/ginger juice from cherie calborns juicing book.

  4. i’m skinny and having a uc flare (bloody ‘d). is it okay to fast then? what would you recommend?

  5. my son has colitis and i would like to know what kind of juice i can make in my juicer to help heal him does anyone have a recipe

  6. Dear Chetty,

    Here are 2 juice recipes, which I find very effective for my patients with colitis. But juicing is just a first step to colon healing. In addition to juicing, your son needs a special gut healing diet plus probiotics and supplements to reduce disease activity, eliminate colon inflammation and stimulate regeneration of damaged intestinal tissues.
    Best of Health,
    Galina

    Recipe: Carrot 6 oz + Cabbage 4 oz
    Recipe: Carrot 6 oz + Wheat grass juice 2 oz

    Explanation: Wheat grass juice removes toxins and harmful bacteria from colon. According to the late Dr. Ann Wigmore “wheat grass chlorophyll is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and oxygen. It has been used to treat peptic ulcer and ulcerative colitis.”

    Source: The Hippocrates Diet and Health Program by Ann Wigmore

    Scientists studied 23 patients with active ulcerative colitis. Patients were divided into 2 groups: one group consumed from 20 ml (2/3 of an ounce) to 100ml (3.5 ounces) of fresh wheat grass juice for 30 days, and the other consumed a placebo. 19 patients completed the study. Patients who drank wheat grass juice has less rectal bleeding/abdominal pain, and more vitality.

    Source: Townsend letter for Doctors and Patients. Aug-Sept, 2002 by A.R.Gaby. Wheat grass juice for ulcerative colitis. Literature Review.

  7. SPASIBO GALA !

    I will apretiate if you will share more info !
    Fasting concept is old Russian tradition, thank you for marketing this great treatment ! Recently my health started detiriate- spinal surgery, muscles problems and, as a part of the “package”, problems with digestive system…..
    I become stricted with my diet, can I start from one glass / day of carrot juice combined with other food …?
    I will start to do soon a trigger point theraphy and looking for any help to get my life back !

    BR,
    Alex
    Alex

  8. Na Zdorovie Dear Alex:

    In general such recommendations regarding fasting and juice therapy have to be tailored for once particular health conditions, geographical location, age and body type.
    However, for people with serious health issues (such as your own) fasting and or juice therapy MUST be structured appropriately in order not to harm first, and then to complement a recovery.
    Although, these therapies appear simple, they are not “one size fits all” type of a deal. Applied without proper understanding of one’s specific health issues they could produce more harm then good.

    Your medical situation is rather complex: ” spinal surgery, muscles problems and problems with digestive system.”
    I understand your confusion, and I can help you by creating a program specific for you.
    Here is the link to my consultation page: http://knowyourgut.com/consultation/index.html
    Should you decide to consult with me, purchase the consultation program online, and e-mail
    to me your phone number, so we can schedule initial consultation with you.

    Regards,
    Galina Kotlyar MS RD LDN

  10. My son (25) has very swerious Crohns Disease. Reacts to almost everything. Constant pain, stricture. Can’t eat gluten, lactose, fiber. No potatoes, no veggies, no fruit, no salads. Just ricepasta, chicken breast and spaghetti sauce. Rice bread and eggs. Would juicing be good for him?

  11. hi, it has been interesting reading your web page, i searched because my friend has crohn’s disease, he is 26 and it gets him down, he leads a normal life and does watch his diet but is always in pain, he takes anti inflamatories but i believe in healing from within and as a juicer myself would like to know how i can help, do you have any recipies to help us please.
    thankyou x

  12. I was diagnosed with celiac disease about 6 months ago. I have cut Gluten and wheat and have noticed an improvment. I also have an underactive thyroid. Is there any specific blend of vegetables that would be most beneficial for me?

  13. I have IBS with Diarreah and alot of bloating and some gas , but for some reason my symptoms don’t get too bad until after supper wich is the worst time because I’m involved in alot of sports and they are all around 7:00 at night. IBS is ruining my life , I was wondering if a juice fast will work for me? , how long I should fast? and what juices will be best for me?
    Oh and I’m 14, 5’3 and I weigh about 120 pounds.

  14. Dear Brittany,
    Since you are only 14 years old and still growing, I would not recommend for you juice fasting longer than 24 hours. However, I would recommend for you to do a Food Allergy/Sensitivity Test to identify foods that might trigger diarrhea, bloating and gas in your gut. Please subscribe to our free newsletter for updates on IBS, and contact me for details on Food Allergy/Sensitivity Test.

  15. I have developed IBS after living in Egypt for 3 months. I look like I am a few months pregnant and am constantly feeling uncomfortable and have muscle aches. There doesn’t seem to be any food in particular that causes the bloating and hardening of my abdomen after meals. I have been taking fibre tablets and anti-spasmodic medication. Aside from the discomfort and no relief after trips to the ladies, I’m feeling hugely self-conscious about my stomach being so distended. Is there a juice blend that can help me? Many thanks!

  16. Hello Sarah,
    I suspect that you have been exposed to bacteria and/or parasites present in Egyptian water supply and the Nile River. You should start with doing a “targeted Test for Parasites in the Gut”. Contact your physician or if you wish I can help you with ordering this test.

  17. I have develope IBS for the past 3 years, I hve been very carefull for what I eat. I didnt believe I had IBS until now that I’m in pain again for the Third time. I am indesperate help in this matter. I am now worried that probably I ave dvelope something worst. I have also been constipated and Ive notice that in my Stool I see I believe it is mucus thick line around, I let it go maybe I though it was bad, my second stool was ok, my third now it looked like the first one with a mucus line wrap around. I am worried, stressing, my mood has gone down bad, I feel dreppress. I’m reading about IBS more, and I just started the diet for IBS, I dont know if its working, I still get bloaded inflame. What Im getting to now Its to do a 5 day fast and see if that can help heal my colon and if there is any juice to help heal the IBS. Thank u so much.

  18. Hi Karen,
    You should start with ALCAT test, which will help you to identify problem foods which can trigger your GI symptoms. For more information check out their website at http://www.alcat.com
    If you wish I can help you with ordering this test. Meanwhile, you can start by doing 1 day fast to see how you feel. I do not recommend to start with 5 day fast without supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. I do offer personal consultations. For your convenience, here is the link to my consultation page: http://knowyourgut.com/consultation/index.html

  19. Try A Parasite Cleanse. Most IBS is actually caused by bacteria overgrowth or parasites.

    Try:
    Dr Christopher’s Parastite Syrup
    2xs a day (morning and night)

    Flying Bassett Parasite Relief (for cats, dogs or humans)
    w small meals. (light eating)

    Aloe Vera Juice or Gel (must be edible kind obviously), I mix in a light juice and water and you will eat pieces of eat going down.

    Probiotics that contain all 4 of main of major strains.

    Slippery Elm pills to soothe

    Chamomile Tea to deal with the stomach bloating and pain

    Im on day 3 of this and already I feel alot better, This after an endoscopy, and colonoscopy that found NOTHING and months of suffering.

  20. PLEASE PLEASE! AFTER 13 years with anorexia neurosa when I started eat normally gaining weight and after an infection and antibioticts use, I found out having coeliac.I am desperate. I want to eat normally!For God’s Sake. tell me Could fasting help me?

  21. Dear Kiki!
    YOU MUST AVOID FASTING due to your long history of anorexia nervosa!!!
    Here is the link to a good article on what type of diet one should follow with celiac disease:http://knowyourgut.com/celiac-disease-symptoms-diagnosis-and-diet/
    You can subscribe to our free newsletter for more information in the future on celiac disease, which is on the same page as the above article.
    If you need more help, you can schedule a consultations with me at:http://knowyourgut.com/consultation/index.html

  22. I have crohns disease. I am about to start on immunosuppressants— (which I am scared will in the long run do more harm on my body than good for my crohns). As a last stitch effert I am considering juicing. My question is since raw vegtables are not recommended for crohns patients does juicing those vegetable change that? And which combinations are good and bad for crohns disease?

    Hi Crystal!
    I understand your fear of immunosuppressant drugs since those medications do have serious side effects. I would like to share with you that I have developed a gut healing program for patients with Crohn’s which includes liquid diet, juicing and certain anti-inflammatory herbs, etc. In that program I recommend using diluted with water juice of carrots, celery and 1/2 apple. At the time of the flair raw vegetables should be avoided. I do offer private consultations to patients with Crohn’s and Colitis who need help with gut healing natural way.
    Galina

  23. hi,
    i’ve been reading and quite happy to see your responses are not just based on selling something.
    i’ve been dealing with crohn’s for 20 years. first they thought i had UC so they removed my colon ten years ago and i got a J-Pouch. the problems came back after three years so they told me , after trying so many meds to cure, it was indeed crohn’s. i’ve since developed fistulas…and i’m fighting those as well as crohn’s. tough but i’m fighting. i’ve tried so many things, including going to india for homeopathic treatment.. i’ve tried almost everything. i’m currently on cipro 2*500mg, tapering off prednisone and just started Immuran to help with the TNF Alpha blocker i’m going to be on soon.. 🙂 ya. that much.. truth be told , the meds help alot.
    i have a very good juicer that i want to start using. i used it a bit but would like to get into it alot more… please let me know if you have a recipe book or on consultation program.
    thanks. Mike.

  24. Hello Galina,

    I am having an ulcerative colitis flare up, and the bleeding is showing constantly. I can not stop running to the bathroom. Lately, I have increased my dose of Asacol to 4 tablets a day instead of my usual 2 a day that keep me in perfect remission. I am a busy individual, full time university work load plus a job never give me a chance to relax. I want to do a juice fast but I do not know what to do with the medicine itself, should I reduce it back to my typical 2 a day dosage and then begin the juice fast to let my body recover? Should I start taking probiotics, aloe elite, and propolis? I have never tried either one but I hear good things from fellow sufferers. Anyhow, I need a bit of guidance in terms of how long I should remain on this diet and what results it may offer my case.

    Thank you ahead of time, much love!

  25. my husband has crohns disease and in february went off all western medicine meds and went to medical food and intestinal repair complex, along with this…he has had two allergy tests long term digestive ones..so he has completely eliminated the allergens causing irritation…to make issues worse he has over the years been dealing with kidney stones; which we have researched is a side effect of crohns. so lately his condition has gotten worse, and he is feeling desperate..along with a very organic, gluten,dairy,soy, sugar free diet i also make green smoothies which include vega protein an all vegan protein powder with fresh kale, or some greens and coconut milk purified water and fruit…at this point nothing is really working..he isnt bleeding but in total discomfort..is juicing a good option..would he have to start with 1 day a month?

  26. I have Type I diabetics and 4 months ago diagnosed with Crohn’s desease.
    Can I do juice fasting if I regularly check my blood suger level?
    If I can’t do juice fasting what are the alternatives?
    -Afsana Sultana

  27. Hi Afsana,

    It is not recommended to fast for patients with Type 1 Diabetes due to possible complications from low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
    I would recommend you to drink Healthy Blood Sugar Tea: 3 cups daily extra-strength.
    For more information subscribe to our FREE newsletter at http://knowyourgut.com

    Be Well,
    Galina

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  32. Hi there,

    I was diagnosed with IBS about 8 years ago and was doing okay until I started a new job. The stress of a major life change has caused my IBS to flare up again and it is worse now than it was 8 years ago. Do you have any specific juicing suggestions to follow? I’ve done a two-day juice fast with success and wanted to do a longer one (10 days). Are there any fruits or vegetables that I should avoid?

    Thanks!

  33. Please give me any and all information that will assist me in my Crohn’s Disease.My fears are in the medication and what the side effects are.

  34. Dear Galina
    I have IBS with bloating (!!!!) which is so severe that I never eat/drink before going out or just hanging out with friends. It is simply too embarrassing because everyone thinks I’m pregnant 🙁
    I’ve tried all kinds of diets, and the only thing which has ever worked was NOT eating. But as soon as I started eating again, the bloating returned….
    So my question is – what is your opinion of digestive enzymes? Could that work?
    I hope you have time to help me.
    Thank you
    Best,
    Maria

  35. Hi Maria!
    Digestive enzymes are great if you know which one’s to use for your particular type of IBS (ex. pancreatic enzymes, proteolitic enzymes, plant enzymes). Also, it takes much more than a single enzyme to cure IBS. I am working on European IBS Healing System, part of which will be available FREE to my loyal subscribers. Stay tuned and subscribe to our Free newsletter! If you are looking for a fast relief now, you can schedule a consultation with me. Here is the link to my consultation page: http://knowyourgut.com/consultation/index.html
    Happy and Healthy Holidays to You!
    Galina

  36. Hi Lauren!
    Good Job on 2 day juice fast. I would recommend to do 10 day juice fast while being under observation of a healthcare professional familiar with extended duration of juice fasting. Avoid juicing fruits (fruit juice contain too much fructose, which can trigger gas and bloating). Meanwhile, I am working on European IBS Healing System, part of which will be available FREE to my loyal subscribers. Stay tuned and subscribe to our Free newsletter!
    Happy Holidays to You!
    Galina

  38. hi i am 19 years old i have IBS an have tried almost everything. what juice recipes do you recommend for me to do the juice fasting? i am 5’7 120lbs.

  39. hi its mark, i didn’t really explain much, but here we go i was diagnosed with ibs 7 months ago. its driving me crazy cant sleep really, i had a colons-copy done an i had to go on a 48 hour liquid diet an take two 8 oz. bottles of magnesium it really cleansed me out. well i had the procedure done an after that i could eat anything for 4 months without any problems. went back to week later doctor said i had nothing wrong its just ibs an there is really no cure. an i don’t take pills i am more of an all natural remedy person.so i am assuming i ate something bad an was stressing out to much because of my mom almost passing away an finals at school an work?. so would a juice fasting work for me an if so what are some good recipes? or should i do the Magnesium 48 hr liquid with electrolytes diet again? thanks!

  40. Hi there!
    I have Crohn’s disease and am trying to go the all natural way and avoid most medications. The medication for Crohn’s is just way too risky for me. I would love to get more information on what recipes to use for ulcers and inflammation of bowels. I don’t have any problems with diarrhea or constipation. I have inflammation often and its just irritating. I have been trying to eat Organic as much as possible, being in college its a little hard some days. But I found this really interesting and anymore information would be amazing!! Thank you 🙂

  41. Hi Marc,

    Juice fasting with carrot, celery and beets may help you temporarily. You need to address the root of the problem and ask yourself a question: What has triggered my IBS in a first place?
    For patients like you who have “tried almost everything”I have developed IBS Relief program, which includes IBS Healing Foods and following supplements:

    1. Colon Defense Formula
    Colon Defense Formula is a high potency herbal formula that has been specifically formulated to support the health of the digestive tract.The ingredients in Colon Defense Formula have a long history of use against parasites, harmful bacteria and viruses. Herbs used in Colon Defense Formula can help: Support normal flora of colon & small intestine. Relieve occasional diarrhea, abdominal cramps, gas and bloating.

    2. Intestinal Comfort Tea
    Main herbal ingredients selected for our Intestinal Comfort Tea have been previously approved by German Commission E (the German equivalent of American FDA) for the following conditions: abdominal pain and spasms, wounds and inflammation, tissue repair, gas and bloating.
    Drinking this herbal tea aids digestion and can relieve occasional symptoms of loose stools, abdominal pain and cramping.

    3. Medicinal Clay
    Medicinal Clay A Potent Aid in Intestinal Detoxification. Can be used to Relieve Occasional Diarrhea and Heartburn. Removes Harmful Bacteria and Toxins from Your Digestive Tract.
    I am planning to release a Free e-book about this program.
    You will receive notification about this e-book If you subscribe to our Free newsletter at:www.knowyourgut.com
    Galina

  43. I’ve had Crohns for 20 years and have avoided meds for the most part -except when I nearly died because of ulcers in my esophagus several years ago. I’ve had a very systemic case of Crohns all through my digestive track which resulted in ileostomy surgery in 2007. I’m wondering about the benefits of juicing – my rectum has had continual inflammation since 20 years ago. My Dr encourages me to eat lots of protein and I do feel better having enough protein -mostly chicken and fish (organic) I haven’t eaten sugar or grains for years so I’m a bit nervous about all the sugar…..also the rapid transit due to my ostomy. What would you suggest?

  44. Hi there, I have severe digestion issues and have lost 10 pounds due to. I was diagnosed with c. Difficile bacterial infection and cannot heal it. I am on my second round of antibiotics and terrified. All I live on for a week plus now is juicing and water. I have severe diarrhea and blood for a month plus. My juice recipe is carrot apple collard spinach kale celery cucumber. Is this good or aggravating for diarrhea? Thank you I can schedule consultation as well, I’m just feeling like I’m dying 🙁

  45. Dear Christine,
    You should not experiment with juicing while you have “severe diarrhea and blood for a month plus” and 10 pounds weight loss. Please contact nearest hospital ASAP to prevent further dehydration, anemia and weight loss. GI doctor may check you for celiac disease, Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s. After you know your diagnosis, then you can schedule an appointment with me at: http://knowyourgut.com/consultation/index.html
    Also, you can subscribe to our Free newsletter on cutting edge digestive healing at: http://knowyourgut.com
    Galina

  47. Hey there Galina

    I’ve had Crohn’s disease for almost 9 years now and for the last half a year I’ve been dealing with it naturally (not taking medications anymore).
    I’ve read David Klein’s book, Self Healing Colitis and Crohn’s, several times and have been finding my path through all this.

    For the last weeks I’ve gotten off track and my symptoms have gotten worse so I decided to try juice fasting.

    I’m on my 4th day now and I feel better. I’m experiencing almost all of the side effects you described.
    My stools are still very loose though. When I go to the bathroom (around 3 or 4 times a day) my stools are very loose but the volume is very low.

    I just wanted to ask you if this was normal or if it was something to be worried about?

  48. Hi! I’ve been struggling with asthma for about a year now (I take my albuterol almost once a day) and was wondering if a juice fast would help, how long it would have to be and if I would need to consult a doctor at any point in the process. I am in my early thirties and am at a good weight (5’3, 115 lbs). I’ve been following a plant-based diet for the same amount of time in hopes that would help, but so far it hasn’t gotten rid of the asthma. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

  50. Hello Galina,
    I am a 60-year-old long-time sufferer of recurrent bouts of ulcerative colitis. I have a flare-up usually once a year or every other year, and I am having a rather prolonged one for me right now, about 2 months in duration. I am under doctor’s care, currently tapering off oral prednisone (30 mg/day at present) and taking Colazal. Nothing is working to stop the bleeding. I see fasting as a logical step to completely rest the colon so the bleeding can stop and the inflammation begin to heal. I am going to discuss this idea with my doctor, hopefully today. My problem is that I am a professional musician, on the road a lot, and unable to make my own juice. Are there commercially available vegetable juice preparations your would recommend that I could purchase at a health food store? I know there are some available, I just wouldn’t want to get ones that you would think would be counterproductive. I have seen organic carrot and beet juice available. And what veggie broth and teas would you recommend?
    Any further guidance on this would be appreciated.
    Thank you for your help.
    Greg

  51. Hey Galina,

    I did a 7 day juice fast 3 months ago after suffering with Ulcerative Colitis for 3 years with no medication having any effect. It did wonders for me as my pancolitis is now left-sided colitis. I do, however, still have serious inflammation near the end of the colon, which persists and due to the location I was told just a 7 day fast can’t really help. Do you have any specific advice on additions to the fasting…herbal enemas, some specific juice to be included for that last part of the colon right before the rectum? I am currently on day 5 of my second juice fast.

  52. Galina is been a plesure to find your page , I need your orientacion about vegetables juices ,years hago i start taking fasting juices for IBS first with carrot,beet,celery,parley but three weeks ago i start taking the leafy green juices and i really notice improvment and Energy i wiil really apreciat any recomendation about it Thanks !

  54. Hi , love your site!
    im not sure what to do, iv had severe pain in left lower abdomen and middle general area since my teens ,I tended to always be on anti inflammatorys and over the last 4 years i found cutting out dairy, wheat and recently suger and taking peppermint caps has helped a little to ease the sharp cutting pains to a dull constant on and off…
    I have made an appt to see my gp re this ,as its now flared up more than ever before- that any bowel movement causes cutting pains in my colon I can feel it and may collapse(sorry for description) and I can’t seem to get a hold of it with diet anymore.
    I probably need a diagnosis of something but am apprehensive as when iv approached previous gps in my teens and early 20’s they dismissed my abdo pain as menstrual cramps (being a student I sucked it up and dealt with it thinking “ok it must be normal to have PRE, DURing and POST meantrual cramps” ie :all month and experienced awful pain through intestines but always stabbing in lower left region and less so the middle).
    I have juiced veg responsibly (with avocados, flax, green powders, b & c vita ect) of and on for years guided by a naturopath and found it helped with energy levels and relieved aforementioned pain. i also have used l-glutamine and bentonite clay and intesticlear intermittently.

    My Question: This time after 7 days veg juicing -the pain/ inflammation is the same and Iv been using all of the above and cut out fruit -using only ginger and a lime or lemon instead… ( my energy is fine and head fine).
    Should I persevere with juicing or just accept its not really helping this time… The only problem is when I eat full veg and protein the severe pain in lower left area is very painful and cutting.
    I’m thinking I should persevere but I don’t want to do anything that’s making it worse and I’m not sure what tests I should ask my Dr to do? my experience thus far has been dismissive re abdo pain.
    But I live in hope
    Best wishes

  55. This has been the most informative website I have come across in the 8 years that I have been diagnosed with IBS-C. I have just starting juicing, hoping it will help my IBS. Look forward to receiving more information.

  56. Privet, Galina, so glad to find your website 🙂 I am an ulcerative colitis sufferer of 12 years, but honestly, colitis hasn’t been as bad to me as it has been to others. I think this is because of my three years on the Specific Carbohydrate diet after I first got diagnosed. In 12 years I have only had 2 brief relapses and have never used steroids. What I have much more problems with is the Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, which I got after pregnancy, 9 years ago. I recently tried to go on a raw food diet because of it, but the diet only irritated my intestines and caused diarrhea (for a day) and soreness for a week. I had to stop the diet, of course. I was wondering if juice fast would be a better option. I am slim to begin with (110 lb) , so I am also concerned about loosing weight. Do you think I would be able to do a targeted juice fast, that would allow my Hashimoto’s to heal without aggrevating my colitis? I would so much appreciate your help.

    Rossita

  57. Thank you Sanna for your kind words! I am planning to conduct a free Webinar on IBS-C Healing System this spring. I’ll inform my subscribers about exact day and time for this Webinar. Stay tuned!

  58. Hi Rossita,
    Both Ulcerative Colitis(UC) and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis are autoimmune diseases. My program would emphasize strengthening your immune system.
    You should consult endocrinologist regarding your Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis(HT). And you can consult me about your UC and appropriate dietary modifications for HT.
    You should be very careful about juice fast since you are slim & possibly underweight to begin with. If you need my further help, here is the link to my consultation page:
    http://knowyourgut.com/consultation/ For more information, you can subscribe to our Free newsletter at: http://www.knowyourgut.com

  59. Hi Claire,
    If your doctor dismisses your abdominal pain, you should see a good gastroenterologist who can determine the real cause of your “severe pain in left lower abdomen and middle area”.
    Then, after you have a clear diagnosis, I can help you further at http://knowyourgut.com/consultation/.
    For more information, you can subscribe to our Free newsletter at: http://knowyourgut.com

  61. Hi,

    I have pretty severe celiac disease. I’ve been on a gluten free diet for about 8 years now, but the last 4 years have been really difficult because my husband’s job moved to a country with no knowledge of celiac or food labeling. Because of this I’ve had my fair share of hidden gluten. I have been on iron supplements for severe anemia for about 4 months and now my MD believes I may not be absorbing other vital nutrients.

    Could juice fasting one day a week help my body heal?

    Thanks so much for your blog!

    Sarah

  62. Hello,

    i was wondering what the specific guideline is for this in regards to how much juice, what fruits/vegetables to juice on the fast, how much should you consume etc.

    is there a specific plan to follow or specific vegetables to juice?

    Thank you,

  63. I am 42 and have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. I also have had inflammation in my stomach as well. I have done a 4 day juice fast in the past and I had felt better. Then the pain comes back. I have realized I’m very susceptible to certain foods. My question is should I take long juice fasts? I am 6 foot and 205. My weight is not what I’m worried about, it is being healthy on a regular basis.

  64. Hi Harry,

    Doing 4 days juice fast can be very beneficial for people with Ulcerative Colitis. However, juice fasting is not enough to completely eliminate GI inflammation (in your case it is large intestine and stomach). You need alkaline elemental diet and herbs used in IBD Immediate Help Kit. To learn more, you can subscribe to my Free Webinar at http://knowyourgut.com/services/ibd-colitis-crohns/
    Galina

  67. Hello there ! Good to see this website, its been a couple of months my stool starts with normal and ends with liquid, it has made me depressed, could it be colitis or gluten allergy or coeliac diseases or chrons or IBS? As I have no pain at all, but I m wondering what could it be? I have gone through a lot of nsaid and antibiotics and anti inflammatory medicine already for my back and joint pains leading a sensession of leaking urine after urinating (a few drops), and while sitting.
    I have lost about 10 during 2014 only.
    now I am scared to go to dr cause they just want to try nsaid and anti inflammatory all the time which which only creat another problem.
    plz plz plz Advice !

  68. Your case is quite complex. The cause of your liquid stool should be identified following comprehensive nutritional evaluation. Please note that NSAID, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs can trigger intestinal dysbiosis due to beneficial gut flora destruction.
    For someone like you, I would design a program which would address your back and joint pain, then special gut healing program to address your stool abnormality and intestinal dysbiosis.

  69. Hi Don,
    For ileitis, I would suggest a combination of organic fresh carrot juice and green juice from any of the following veggies: kale, romaine lettuce or small amount of parsley (not more than 1 Tablespoon per 1 cup of carrot juice).
    Important: for better absorption of Vit A, drink your juice with MCT fats like organic unrefined coconut oil. Take about 1 teaspoon of coconut oil together with your juice.
    To reduce intestinal inflammation and sooth pain, you can start drinking Intestinal Comfort Tea™.
    Here is the link: https://www.healingfoodscompany.com/products/intestinal-comfort-tea/

  70. Hi, I am so glad I came across your website. I have a friend who had been suffering from gastritis and mild colitis. She apparently went for colonoscopy and gastroscopy.

    Her diagnosis was as follows:

    1) Descending colon biopsy
    Sections show 2 pieces of colonic mucosa with relatively intact cryptal architecture. No definite crypt drop out or regenerative branching patterns are seen. The lamina propria is mildly congested and contains a moderate lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with scattered eosinophils and neutrophils. No definite cryptitis or crypt abscesses is discerned. There is no evidence of granulomas, dysplasia or malignancy.

    2) Sigmoid colon biopsy
    Sections show 2 pieces of colonic mucosa with relatively intact cryptal architecture. Mild regenerative changes are seen featuring mildly elongated crypts. No definite crypt drop out is noted. The lamina propria is congested and contains a moderate inflammatory infiltrate of lymphocytes, plasma cells, scattered eosinophils and neutrophils. Focally, a few intraepithelial neutrophils are seen. No frank abscesses or granulomas are discerned. There is no dysplasia or malignancy.

    Her pain is on and off, continually. She is consuming organic probiotics now. What is she actually advised to consume regularly ? What are the types of food that would help ease the pain and heal the inflammation of the intestines? Would paleo diet, or certain form of fruit juices help her heal faster? Please do look upon this and refer back to me soon. Looking forward to hear from you. Thank you so much for taking your time to read this.

  71. Hi Sharon,
    You are such a good friend. Please let your friend know that I am planning to release IBD Healing System, which would address all your questions (the best healing diet for people with colitis, how to relief abdominal pain and intestinal inflammation, which food to eat and which foods to avoid plus extensive section on effective probiotics and supplements.)
    Meanwhile, sign up for a free IBD Webinar at: http://knowyourgut.com/services/ibd-colitis-crohns/

  72. Hi I am pinky from india i have ibs d running three years. I try every treatment but nothing get relieve. Lots of stomach pain day to night continue and mucus in stool. Back pain body pain weight loose my weight is just 35 kg. My question is that is juice fast good for me. Can I get relief from ibs to taking juice fast. Please help me

  73. Hi Pinki,
    Since you have lost so much weight, modified elemental diet together with juicing might be more appropriate.
    I would love to help you. I have many patients from India. Here is the link to my consultation page:

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