Just Juice It!

Do you find it near impossible to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables?  If you’re like most Americans your being pulled and tugged in so many directions you barely find time to eat.  Consider juicing your fruits and veggies and taking them on the go.  You may recognize the name Jack LaLanne.  He was often called the “Godfather of Fitness” and wrote a book on the benefits of juicing which also includes recipes.  LaLanne was a huge advocate of juicing and lived to be 96-years-old.  Yet, you might be thinking how do I begin the process of juicing?  First, you must purchase a juicer.  Secondly, try your local health food store or Farmers’ Markets when seeking your produce.  Lastly, prepare your produce and get juicing.  Whether you juice it yourself or purchase a tall tasty beverage, juicing will allow your body to receive its daily recommendation.

Three main reasons to juice are: (1) the benefits it provides the digestive system, (2) you are clearly getting more fruits and vegetables than you could possibly eat in one day, and (3) it’s great detoxification for your liver.  However, juicing has many more health benefits than just the three previously mentioned. Our liver is vital to our entire system.  It is essential to protect and nourish this very important organ.  The liver has 100’s of important functions.   The liver removes toxins and metabolic waste.  With the amount of toxins our body deals with daily, it is important to have a “clean liver” rendering us to be clean! Juicing can also improve brain and heart function, slow the aging process, and improve joint function.  It is also excellent for your hair, nails, skin, and eyes.  Plus, all the minerals and vitamins will help boost your energy level, rebuild blood cells, and boost your immunity.  Juicing can be made simple if you prepare properly and have an organized plan to juice.

Here a couple of simple recipes to get you started.  Need a little pep in your step?  Try this recipe (serving size 8-ounces)

1 apple

3 celery stalks

handful of spinach

handful of kale

1” slice of ginger

Spinach and Kale have an abundance of beta-carotene and vitamin C.  This drink is also packed with goodness for your digestive system and filled with magnesium, calcium, and natural sodium.  The ginger is excellent for fighting inflammation.

Need an immunity booster?  Try this recipe (serving size 8-ounces)

4-6 large carrots

1 large apple

2 stalks of celery

2-3 gloves of garlic

1 cup of parsley

The garlic itself reaps a plethora of benefits into the body.  Add the other ingredients and you have a boost to your immunity.

As a child I recall my Mother juicing fresh vegetables and fruit for me.  Naturally, I was disgusted and on many occasions refused to drink what was put before me. Yet, I cannot be anymore thankful for what my Mother instilled in me with regard to having a healthy diet.  Fortunately, I’m passing these healthful traits down to my children.  As we are all in need of more fruits and vegetables… go ahead and JUST JUICE IT!