Tomato juice is seen in this undated handout photo
Tomato juice is seen in this undated handout photo REUTERS/NEWSCOM/HANDOUT

Cold pressed juicing is one of the latest diet fads that helps people lose weight in just a few weeks. The process involves the use of a cold press juicer or device which extracts juice from fruits and vegetables. The cold press juicer may include a triturator and a hydraulic press to pulverize the food items and extract live juice, at the same time preserving most of the vitamiins minerals and other essential nutrients, as compared to basic blending.

The Advantages

1. Maximum nutrients

Compared to blending, cold press juicing experts say that the process preserves maximum amounts of vitamins, minerals, healthy enzymes and trace minerals. Blending can cause heat as the high-speed cutting blade and strainer beats the fruits and vegetables, taking out essential nutrients and leaving most of the liquid in the pulp. The cold press approach does not produce heat and will save most of the important healthy contents of the food items.

2. Better absorption

Cold pressed juicing is better absorbed by the body because there are more fibers. Traditional ways of juicing which mainly uses centrifugal force, removes fiber which will cause the body to rapidly absorb the fruits and vegetables. The sugar content in these food items will immediately be absorbed as well, causing your blood sugar levels to spike and drop. Including the fiber in cold pressing will allow your body to slowly absorb the nutrients and sugar, providing more balance.

3. Convenience

Liquid diets are becoming popular because these can easily be consumed by people anytime and anywhere. A lot of people order a whole set of liquid juice bottles and consume these throughout the week. Each bottle of juice is very low in calories, which will ultimately help you lose weight in a short span of time. In one study published on Data Monitor, individuals get to consume more nutrients from fruits and vegetables while on a liquid diet compared to when eating solid food.

The Cons

1. Expensive

Cold press juicers are quite expensive. The price can be twice or thrice more compared to quality blenders. If you decide to order from a company that delivers sets of bottles to your home or office, also expect to pay a premium. An article published on Wall Street Journal showed that a 16-ounce bottle can cost as much as $10.

2. Not for the long term

Going on a liquid diet can be beneficial for people but only for a short period of time. Liquid diets are primarily used for cleansing, to clean your bowels of toxic wastes and improve digestion. However, people at some point, will need to consume solid food. Eating solid meals is also recommended to avoid hunger pangs and food cravings.