Fresh Organic Juicing vs. Store Bought

There's nothing like fresh juice! it is loaded with concentrated nutrition, which is a great way to get key nutrients that are vital to a healthy life.

95% of the vitamins and enzymes our bodies need are in the juice of raw fruits and vegetables.

However, we would need to eat approximately 11 apples, 2 pounds of carrots or 8 pounds of spinach in order to get the same amount of nutrients in one 16 oz glass of juice. This highly concentrated juice, loaded with vitamins, minerals, and enzymes rapidly enters your bloodstream. Your bloodstream easily absorbs all the beneficial nutrients, giving your digestive organs a much needed rest.  

Fresh juice has life! Like I mentioned, it's filled with living enzymes, essential minerals, antioxidants, and natural antibiotics, which are vital for optimal health. Unlike store bought bottled juices, which are pasteurized. This means they are heated and processed, which kills all the vitamins and minerals. Therefore,  juicing at home is really the better, fresher option. 

When juicing, make sure to buy organic produce! Organic farming minimizes toxins within the soil. They protect the soil from chemicals and pesticides. This is the way to go!  Why would you want to drink "living" juice grown in toxic soil, and sprayed with pesticides? 

I know what you are going to say, "but buying organic is just so expensive!" Yes, it can be, but it doesn't have to break the bank. These days, there are a lot more local organic farmers. In fact, most will deliver to your home and/or have stands to buy from. I go to The Ecology Center in SJC. Buying straight from farms or farmer's markets, is usually the best deal. And besides that, you will be supporting your local farmers. It's a win-win!!

Juicing daily is best however I try to juice 2-3 times a week. I wish I could say that I just love it! Well, I mean I love the juice, it's the process that I dread. However, juicers have come a long way and the health benefits definitely out weigh the "dread!" There are a lot of great juicers out there, so do you your research before buying. Find one with a strong motor, but is easy to clean.

I typically juice GREENS with some fruit (apples and lemons which are more alkaline). Here is an example of a juice that I make: kale, parsley, celery, cucumber, lemon, apple, ginger root, turmeric root (these two root veggies are great for their anti-inflammatory qualities).                                   

The ingredients in the photo makes approx. four 8 oz. glasses.

Benefits of Juicing

Research shows the properties of juicing does the following:

• Facilitates weight loss*
• Increases energy*
• Strengthens your immune system*
• Strengthens your bones*
• Creates a glowing complexion*
• May reduce chances of heart disease, cancer, and strokes which are the three leading causes of death*