Is Juicing Really Healthy?

Posted on: March 18th, 2013 by Jeff Ritter No Comments

 

Juicing is a convenient and easy way to get in a lot of nutrients in little time. To be clear, I’m talking about juice made fresh from home, not from the store or a vegan bar. Healthy juicing is nutritionally balanced, consumed with the pulp, somewhat thick and enjoyed fresh. Protein-rich juices are great post workout, for a grab-and-go breakfast or as a quick snack option. If done properly, juicing can be a nourishing source of enzymes, phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber that aid digestion, enhance detoxification, cleanse the liver, increase alkalinity, strengthen immunity, boost metabolism, assist weight loss, and support overall health.

Jumpstart Your Juicing

1. Balance Nutrients
Keep the sugar content low by using about 75% non-starchy veg and 25% starchy veg and fruit. Add natural fats and high quality protein to increase satiation, enhance nutrient absorption and improve digestion.

2. Eat The Pulp
Always eat the pulp of produce because that’s where the fiber is, which is going to prevent insulin spikes. If organic, the skin or peel can also be consumed to increase fiber and phytonutrients.

3. Make It Thick
The thicker, the better. Too much liquid can dilute stomach acid production, which is especially important for digestion and nutrient absorption.

4. Enjoy Fresh
Avoid pre-made juices with additives, preservatives, pesticides and excess sugar. Maximize nutrients and flavor, by making your own juice fresh daily.

Ingredients to Include

Reduce your toxic load, while increasing your nutrient intake by enjoying fresh, local, organic ingredients. To improve digestion, enhance flavor and support metabolism, consume cruciferous veg lightly steamed.

Non-starchy veg: spinach, kale, cucumber, greens, celery, watercress, etc.
Starchy veg: beets, carrots, sweet potato, butternut squash, etc.
Fruits: lemons, limes, grapefruit, pomegranate, berries, apple, kiwi, banana, etc.
Protein (powder): raw egg, egg white, grass-fed whey, rice, pea or cranberry
Fat: avocado, coconut products (oil, milk, flakes, kefir), nuts, nut butters/milk
Herbs & spices: ginger root, cinnamon, ginger, parsley, cilantro, etc.
Other: ice, filtered water, herbal tea, stevia, supplements, unsweetened cocoa

Bonus Benefits

Alkalizing powerhouses: beets, carrots, cucumbers, cabbage, spinach
Liver cleansers: dandelion, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, milk thistle
Excess estrogen eliminators: watercress, flax seeds, green tea
Natural detoxifiers: kale, spinach, greens, cucumber, celery, parsley, cilantro

Make The Turn Nutrition is facilitated by CNK. 

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