When people think about resetting their bodies, two methods often come up: the juice fast vs water fast. Both are forms of short-term fasting designed to give the digestive system a break, encourage renewal, and improve overall well-being. But while they share the same idea of eliminating solid foods, the way they work — and how they feel — are very different.
A juice fast relies on fresh fruit and vegetable juices for hydration and nutrition. A water fast, by contrast, strips everything away except plain water. Understanding the differences between these two approaches is key before you decide which one suits your lifestyle, health, and goals.
A juice fast (also called a juice cleanse) is a program where you replace solid foods with juices made from fruits and vegetables for a set period, typically one to three days.
During a juice fast:
Green juice fasts: emphasize detox with ingredients like kale, spinach, and cucumber.
Fruit-based fasts: focus on hydration and natural sugars from apples, pineapples, or oranges. If you're looking for refreshing options, our tropical fruit juice blends deliver natural sweetness and hydration.
Mixed cleanses: combine both, striking a balance between detoxification and energy.
Juice fasting is designed to be approachable. It delivers nutrients while giving your digestive system a temporary rest.
A water fast is much stricter. The only intake allowed is plain water — no teas, juices, or broths. The body relies entirely on stored energy during this time.
Traditional water fast: water only for 24–72 hours.
Dry fasting (advanced, not recommended): no water or food at all.
Medically supervised extended fasts: used in clinical settings for specific health purposes.
Historically, water fasting has been linked to religious, cultural, and spiritual practices. Today, some attempt it for detox, weight loss, or the potential of triggering autophagy (cellular repair).
While the simplicity may sound appealing, it comes with higher risks, especially for beginners.
Here's how the two compare:
Nutrition: Juice fasting supplies vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Water fasting provides none.
Energy levels: Juice fasts support steady energy. Water fasts often lead to fatigue or weakness.
Hydration: Both hydrate, but juices also provide electrolytes and natural sugars. For pure hydration during non-fasting days, consider natural coconut water options that replenish electrolytes naturally.
Sustainability: Juice fasts are easier to maintain for 1–3 days. Water fasts are harder to sustain safely.
Safety: Juice fasting is generally safe for most healthy adults. Water fasting can be risky without medical supervision.
💡 Quick takeaway: Juice fasting fuels your body while giving digestion a break. Water fasting deprives it to force deeper metabolic shifts.
One of the most common questions is: Which method helps you lose more weight?
Juice fasts: Support short-term weight loss by reducing bloating and calorie intake while keeping energy stable. Most of the weight lost is water weight, though it can motivate healthier eating afterward. If weight management is your goal, explore our guide on juicing for weight loss recipes for practical approaches.
Water fasts: Lead to faster short-term weight loss because of zero calorie intake. However, this often includes muscle breakdown and water loss, not sustainable fat reduction.
After breaking a water fast, people often regain weight quickly once they start eating again. Juice fasting, by contrast, can act as a gentle reset that encourages longer-term healthy habits.
Both are often linked to detoxing, but the science tells a different story.
Juice fasts: Supply antioxidants (like vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids) that help the body neutralize free radicals. They also hydrate and provide electrolytes.
Water fasts: Do not provide any nutrients, relying solely on the body's natural detox pathways (liver, kidneys).
💡 In terms of supporting detox, juice fasting is the more balanced and sustainable choice, since it gives your body tools to aid the natural process.
Day 1: Some hunger pangs, but steady energy from natural sugars.
Day 2: Less bloating, clearer skin, improved hydration, and mental clarity. For skin health benefits from juicing, read about the best juicing recipes for acne.
Day 1: Fatigue, possible headaches (especially from caffeine withdrawal).
Day 2: More hunger, dizziness, and weakness without nutrient support.
For beginners, the juice fast is far more manageable and rewarding.
Ready to start your juice cleanse journey? Explore our full range of premium juice products designed to support your wellness goals.
Still, these benefits usually require extended fasts and professional oversight.
Another popular comparison is juice fast vs intermittent fasting.
Juice fasting: continuous liquid nutrition for 1–3 days.
Intermittent fasting: alternating eating and fasting windows daily (e.g., 16:8).
For beginners, intermittent fasting may be easier long-term, while juice fasting offers a more intense short-term reset.
Ease into it: Reduce heavy foods, caffeine, and alcohol 2–3 days before.
Stay hydrated: Drink more water to prepare.
Plan ahead: Have your juices ready if doing a juice fast. Consider refreshing options like basil-infused beverages for variety and added nutrients.
Light schedule: Avoid scheduling high-intensity activities.
Breaking a fast correctly is just as important as the fast itself.
After a juice fast: Start with light meals like soups, fruits, and salads.
After a water fast: Begin with broth or diluted juices before solid foods.
Avoid jumping straight into heavy, greasy meals, which can shock digestion.
For most beginners, a juice fast is the safer, more manageable option. It nourishes your body, hydrates effectively, and helps you succeed without unnecessary strain. Water fasting is better left to experienced fasters under medical guidance.
During colder months, warming juice options can make your cleanse more comfortable. Check out our winter juice recommendations for seasonal inspiration.
Is juice fasting better than water fasting for weight loss?
Juice fasting is safer and more sustainable. Water fasting may cause faster short-term weight loss but is harder to maintain.
What happens if you water fast for 2 days?
You may feel weak, dizzy, and fatigued. Benefits are limited without medical supervision.
Can you combine juice and water fasting?
Yes, some people alternate between juice and water, but it should be done carefully.
Is juice fasting the same as detoxing?
Juice fasting supports the body's detox processes with nutrients and hydration.
How do you know if fasting is working?
Signs include reduced bloating, improved hydration, and greater focus.
When comparing a juice fast vs water fast, the main difference is balance. Juice fasting provides nutrients while giving digestion a break, making it suitable for most people. Water fasting is more extreme, harder to sustain, and carries greater risks.
For anyone curious about fasting, a juice fast is usually the best starting point. It's a gentle reset that nourishes, hydrates, and encourages healthier habits — all without leaving you drained.
Ready to experience the benefits of juice cleansing? Browse our complete catalogue or contact our team to find the perfect juice options for your wellness journey.
The London Juice Company team brings together years of expertise in the juice and beverage industry, combining a passion for health and flavour with global distribution knowledge. Our content is crafted to inspire both juice enthusiasts and business owners, offering trusted insights, flavour combinations, and industry trends. We’re dedicated to sharing our love for fresh, natural juices and helping you enjoy the benefits of a vibrant, healthy lifestyle, no matter the season.
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