Are you wondering what all this new talk of noni is about? As one of the latest trends to take over the dietary supplement industry, the noni fruit is quickly giving its competitors a run for their money. Here’s a look at what noni juice is, what the potential benefits are and if the hype really is something to get excited about.
What is noni juice?
Noni juice comes from the fruit of a tree called morinda citrifolia and is native to places like Australia, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean. You can purchase noni juice as a liquid dietary supplement and you can also find capsule forms of the fruit’s dehydrated pulp.
Because a majority of the fruit’s nutrients rest in the pulp, commercial noni juice comes packed with fewer health benefits than the raw fruit, but the juice form still contains antioxidants and micronutrients for the world to enjoy.
What are the possible benefits of noni juice?
Noni juice, like the juice of other fruits, contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help promote good health overall. These components assist in providing the body with access to essential nutrients in order to function well on a cellular level. Studies are currently being performed to review the claims of noni juice as being an effective medicinal resource in treating conditions including arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, diabetes and hypertension.
Historically, the noni fruit has been used to treat everything from constipation and diarrhea to inflammation and infection. The compounds contained therein may be able to enhance the function of the immune system, minimize the signs of aging and prevent the progression of cancers. There are accounts of using the multi-purpose plant to help relieve asthma, dysentery, stress, addictions, colds, menstrual cramps, allergies, digestion problems and so on. For relieving pain and treating surface wounds, noni leaves have even been used topically in various settings.
Does the scientific & medical research support the hype of noni juice?
Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA so companies can make all sorts of claims for their products and generally insert a follow-up line or two that clarifies “These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” The catch-all legal disclaimer is often used by diet companies to distance their products from actual medications so that governmental scrutiny won’t challenge what the business is doing.
When a company advertises its inventory as medical products, the offerings are then subjected to being evaluated as drugs, which requires a scientific foundation for all health claims made as well as clinical trial evidence for the effectiveness in humans. Interestingly enough, some noni juice companies have gone so far in their marketing efforts to claim direct health benefits from their products that the FDA has issued warning letters about the unfounded promises.
At present, there is no reliable clinical evidence that noni juice actually cures diseases in humans. What medical effects the juice has at all in strengthening our bodies is also still in question beyond what other comparable fruits can do like raw oranges, which contain a similar micronutrient content.
At this stage in the game, there’s a lot of anecdotal stories but simply not a credible foundation to believe the noni juice can undoubtedly bring about health changes like reducing cholesterol, treating depression or preventing cancers. A noni juice tonic can provide a nutritional supplement to your diet, but the juice isn’t a medical product and there’s no guarantee it can help your condition improve.
What should I expect when consuming noni juice?
Even if you understand that noni juice isn’t approved as a medical product at all, you may still be interested in drinking a daily serving for the nutrients. The unsweetened juice has an odor and taste on the unpleasant side, but a recommended dose generally only consists of drinking one or two ounces of the juice a day. You can mix the tonic into another drink, but some companies warn against this and direct consumers to drink the juice by itself on an empty stomach. Commonly, consumers purchase a big bottle of the juice, which should be shaken well before pouring a serving and refrigerated after opening.
As a dietary supplement, opt for a one-hundred-percent pure noni juice that has been certified organic. Make sure your choice is free of added sugar and artificial flavors, colors and dyes. Only buy your juice from a trustworthy brand that has responsible manufacturing practices. If you are allergic to something, make sure to read the label for a guarantee of no cross contamination with whatever ingredient doesn’t work for you such as nuts, gluten or dairy.
Whenever you’re looking to purchase a new product for the purpose of having a better life, it’s important to remember the actual basics of healthy living. Eating a nutrient-rich diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins is the best way to give your body access to the nutrition it needs. Similarly, participating in a regular program of physical activity is what strengthens and enables your body to be at its best. A product like noni juice is intended to be the bow on top of the present to produce a picture-perfect gift. The bow by itself may be a fine bow, but it’s incomplete when left alone.
As with taking any new dietary supplement, it’s safest to consult with a nutritionist or other medical professional who knows what to look out for. Even though noni juice is simply a fruit juice, the product is high in potassium and can be dangerous in large amounts for those with kidney problems or those who are taking certain blood pressure medications. Women who are pregnant or nursing need to be especially careful when trying out any supplements.
Follow the dosage directions listed on your particular noni juice of choice and pay attention to any side effects that you may feel throughout the weeks. If you sense a problem, don’t hesitate to stop taking the noni juice tonic and to visit your doctor for a checkup and some tests, if needed.
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