What is juicing?
Juicing is simply a process of extracting juice from vegetables and fruits by using a juicer (not a blender!). It’s pure, nutrient-rich and fresh so drinking it immediately after juicing maximizes the health benefits. It’s important to realize that the juice you obtain using a juicer is not the same as the processed, pasteurized juice you buy in a box or a bottle in a grocery store.
The benefits of juicing
Even though the fresh juice contains the same amount of nutrients as the original fruits and vegetables it is actually much easier to digest. The process of juicing breaks down the nutrients making it easier to absorb into your bloodstream. As a result you get the most concentrated form of the vegetables and fruits. Also, when you look at the amount of plants going to just one glass of freshly pressed juice it seems almost impossible to be able to eat the same amount of them in just one sitting. Each fruit and vegetable has its unique nutrition value and can be used to cure many health conditions and generally detoxing your body.
What to juice?
The good thing about juicing is that you can juice pretty much any vegetables and fruits you can find in your kitchen. I always recommend juicing all kinds of green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, beet greens but also broccoli and cabbage as they’re packed with the most amount of antioxidants and nutrients. However in certain health conditions like thyroid issues it is recommended to steam or cook cruciferous vegetables rather than juicing or eating them raw as they have goitrogenic properties. This is still a pretty controversial topic as many studies had been performed on it and there are many different opinions – some stating that they have the most cancer-fighting properties out of all vegetables. I think it’s safe to say that as long as you have a good balance in your life and diet, juicing all kinds of vegetables and fruits is extremely beneficial for your health.
The unique properties of fruits and vegetables
As I mentioned before, each and every plant has its own unique healing properties. Juicing can really change your life in a lot of ways from loosing weight to curing all kinds of health conditions. I’m writing it from the perspective of a person who was diagnosed with Hepatitis C virus a few years ago and beat it in a couple of months with intense juicing and some diet changes (mostly cutting off sugars, switching to the organic diet, increasing omega 3 intake etc.). Also, I’ve been blessed to witness a lot of amazing stories of people who cured even the most serious diseases by implementing dietary changes, juicing and chiropractic at my father-in-law’s clinic. Watch his video in case you’re interested in more information on juicing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INrXthOFQtU
Most commonly juiced fruits and veggies:
Apple – high in vitamin A and C, a good source of potassium, calcium, iron and phosphorus. Most of an apple’s nutrients are stored on and under the skin and in the core so make sure you juice the whole thing (including the seeds! they have strong cancer-fighting properties, cyanide that apples contain does not harm your body unless you eat/juice 100-120 apple seeds a day). It also contains a lot of valuble phytonutrients like: ellagic acid, malic acid, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin.
Indications: asthma, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, bone protection, constipation, dental issues, diabetes, digestion, fibromyalgia, lung cancer,
Arugola – rich in vitamins A, C, E and K, and various B vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, and pantothenic acid as well as minerals like copper and iron. Great antioxidant and rich in phytochemicals such as indoles, thiocyanates, sulforaphane, and isothiocyanates which can counter carcinogenic properties of estrogen excess.
Indications: cancer, bone issues, brain health, indigestions, vision problems, weight loss, immune system issues.
Asparagus – natural diuretic. excellent source of potassium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, folate, vitamins A, C and K. Asparagus is an alkaline food that is rich an amino acid called asparagine, that helps to cleanse the body of waste material.
Indications: acidity, arthritis and rheumatism, bowel disorders, cancer, cataracts, diabetes/hypoglycemia, heart disease, kidneys, PMS, pregnancy.
Beets – rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and C, fantastic source of calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, sodium, choline, folate, iodine and iron. Both beetroot and beet greens have very powerful liver and kidneys cleansing properties.
Indications: acidosis, anemia, atherosclerosis, blood pressure, cancer, constipation, dandruff, toxicity, gastric ulcer, gall bladder, kidney problems, gout, liver, stamina and energy, varicose veins.
Bell Peppers – anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-aging properties. Very high content of vitamin A, C and E (all anti-oxidants), almost the whole range of vitamin B complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B9). Minerals: potassium, manganese, thiamine, molybdenum, trytophan, copper, cobalt and zinc. The stronger the color of the bell peppers, the higher the concentration level of anti-oxidants. A small bell pepper could provide up to three times more of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C, much more than any citrus food. Each color provides different phytochemicals and nutrients:
Yellow—lutein, zeaxanthin
Red—astaxanthin, lycopene
Orange—alpha, beta and gamma-carotene
Purple—anthocyanin
Indications: blood clots, cancer, cholesterol issues, digestive system, immune system, boosts metabolism, nose bleeding, vision, pain relief, respiratory problems, common cold and flu.
Bluberries – amazing source of antioxidants and flavonoids, rich in vitamin B2, C and E, manganese, soluble and insoluble fiber such as pectin.
Indications: Alzheimer’s Disease, bladder infection, cancer, cholesterol issues, constipation, diarrhea, inflammation, nasal congestion, vision problems.
Bokchoy – great antioxidant. contains high amounts of vitamin A, C, K, and several B-vitamins. It is also rich in calcium, choline, copper, fiber, folate, iron, manganese, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, pantohenic acid, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. It has over 70 phenolic antioxidants including several hydroxycinnamic acids.
Indications: cancer, bones, brain health, heart health, liver detox, skin issues, vision health.
Broccoli – great anti-viral, anti-ulcer and anti-cancer properties due to a high content of very strong anti-oxidants like quercetin, glutathione, beta carotene, indoles, vitamin C, lutein, glucarate and sulphoraphane. Broccoli is especially rich in vitamins A, C, K, B6 and E, calcium, folate, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium.
Indications: bone building, birth defect prevention, breast cancer, digestive system, eye disorders, immune system, prostate cancer, skin issues, stomach disorders, tumors.
Cabbage – There are three major varieties of cabbage—green, red (has the most nutrients due to a purple pigmentation) and savoy. Powerful antioxidant. High content of calcium, iron, iodine, potassium, sulfur, and phosphorus as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K and folate.
Indications: anemia, breast engorgement, cancer, constipation, digestive system, immune system, skin wounds, stomach and intestinal tracts, weight loss.
Cantaloupe – Cantaloupe melon is highly concentrated with beta-carotene, folic acid, potassium, vitamin C and dietary fiber. Cantaloupe melon is also one of the very few fruits that has a high level of vitamin B complex—B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), and B6 (pyridoxine).
Indications: anti-coagulant, cancer prevention, arteriosclerosis, cataracts, cholesterol, high blood pressure, immune system, insomnia, menstrual problems, muscle cramps, pregnancy, skin, stress, water retention.
Carrots – excellent source of pro-vitamin A, vitamins C, D, E, K, B1 and B6. Rich with biotin, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, organic sodium and some trace minerals. Carrot greens/tops are edible. They are very rich with potassium, calcium, magnesium, vitamin K and protein.
Indications: acidosis, acne, anemia, atherosclerosis, asthma, cancer, cholesterol, congestion, constipation, emphysema, fertility, inflammation, immune system, kidney, nursing and pregnancy, skin problems, thread worms, ulcers, vision water retention.
Cauliflower – excellent source of the B vitamins and vitamin C. In the minerals department, it is rich in potassium (vitamin K), calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, phosphorus and boron (which helps with the absorption of calcium and magnesium for bone health.)
Indications: anti-aging, arthritis, bone health, cancer prevention, cardiovascular support, colon health, common cold and flu, crohn’s disease, diabetes, peptic ulcer, pregnancy support, weight loss.
Celeriac – amazing “kidney cleanser”, high contents of vitamins C and K, and various B vitamins such as, thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), and vitamin B6. It is rich with calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc.
Indications: anti-aging, cancer, blood levels balance, bones, common cold, digestion, heart health, immunity, insomnia, nervous disorders, joint health, kidney cleanse, weight loss.
Celery – another “kidney cleanser”, high content of vitamin A, whilst the stems are an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C with rich supplies of potassium, folate, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, sodium and plenty essential amino acids.
Indications: acidity, post workout, blood pressure, cancer, cholesterol, colon and stomach issues (including cancer), constipation, cooling, diuretic, inflammation, kidney function, nervous system, weight loss, urinary stones.
Cherries – rich in flavonoid polyphenolic antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin and beta carotene, also vitamins such as folate, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, riboflavin, vitamin A, C, E, and K. Cherries are also a great source of minerals such as, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and zinc.
Indications: anti-aging, blood pressure, cancer, colon health, diabetes, muscle soreness, vision, fibromyalgia, gout, sleep disorders, stroke risk, weight loss.
Cilantro – natural antibiotic, strong antiseptic, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, aphrodisiac, fungicidal properties, helps with the digestion. very good source of vitamins A, C, K and traces of the B vitamins. High amount of calcium and potassium, iron, manganese and sodium.
Indications: cancer, blood sugar, bone health, cholesterol, eyesight, heavy metal detox, immune booster, insomnia, kidney stones.
Collard greens – strong antioxidant, packed with all sorts of nutrients: vitamin A, rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6) and riboflavin (B2), which are essential for overall body health. They also contain high levels of vitamin C and K. The leaves are also packed with folate which is an essential nutrient for DNA synthesis. Also, rich sources of calcium, magnesium, and phytonutrents such as lutein and lipoic acid.
Indications: bone health, blood building, cancer, cholesterol, dementia, heart disease, immune system, skin health, vision, weight loss.
Cranberries – one of the highest anti-oxidant content on earth, natural antibiotic and probiotic. Excellent source of phytonutrients anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, resveratrol and tannins. Rich in vitamins A, C and E; and a good source of organic acids (such as malic, succininc and citric acids), selenium, manganese and copper. They also provide moderate amounts of the B vitamins, folate and iron.
Indications: anti-aging, anemia, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, diarrhea, digestive disorders, vision, kidney stones, skin conditions, venous disorders, urinary tract infections.
Cucumber – amazing cell hydrator and antioxidant (in fact it counters barbecued and fried food in terms of oxidation). Most of the nutrients are stored in the skin so it should not be peeled. Contains alkaline-forming minerals and is an excellent source of vitamin C and A (anti-oxidants), folate, manganese, molybdenum, potassium, silica, sulfur, and lesser amounts of vitamin B complex, sodium, calcium, and phosphorus.
Indications: acidity, blood pressure, connective tissues, diuretic, fever (cooling body temperature), inflammation, hair growth, puffy eyes, skin conditions, sunburn, water retention.
Fennel – works wonders for any type of indigestions. very rich in vitamin A, C, K and many of the B vitamins. It is an excellent dietary fiber, contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, folate, molybdenum and manganese. Minerals like phosphorous, iron, zinc and copper can also be found in fennel.
Indications: anemia, blood pressure, breast milk secretion, bone density, cancer, colic, constipation, diarrhea, diuretic, flatulence, hair health, indigestion, menstruation disorders, muscle relaxer, vision health, water retention.
Ginger – strong anti-inflamatory properties, natural painkiller and aphrodisiac. Wonderful blood and organs cleanser. Rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin C, choline, folate, inositol, manganese, panthotenic acid, silicon, and a small amount of vitamin B3.
Indications: common cold, digestive disorders, fatigue, flatulence/wind, headaches, sinus infections, inflammations, menstrual problems, morning/sea/motion sickness, stomach ulcers, cysts and mastitis.
Grapefruit – natural antibiotic, great source of vitamin C, citric acid, natural sugars, essential oils like limonene, pinene and citral. some vitamin A, B complex, E and K. Good source of calcium, folate, phosphorus, and potassium are found. The nutritive phytonutrients of this voluptuous fruit—liminoids, flavonoids, lycopene and glucarates—help fight cancer and various diseases.
Indications: Acidity of digestive system, atherosclerosis, breast cancer, common cold, diabetes, digestive disorder, fatigue, fever, insomnia, stomach and pancreatic cancer, weight loss.
Grapes – anti-inflammatory properties, rich in flavonoids, resveratrol (red grapes – especially activated in red wine), high content of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and C. The abundance of minerals include calcium, chlorine, copper, fluorine, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, silicon and sulfur. Large amounts of tartaric and malic acids. Grape skins are loaded with beta-carotene and lycopene, and other phytonutrients like ellagic acid, resveratrol and sulfur compounds. Grape seeds have highly protective flavonol anti-oxidants that scavenge free radicals and promote the growth and repair of tissues.
Indications: anti-coagulant (prevents blood clotting), blood circulation, atherosclerosis, bladder, kidney stones, cancer, constipation, vision, fever, heart disease, indigestion, mouth and throat infections, migraine, liver cleanser, skin problems.
Kale – Strong anti-cancer and antioxidant properties, hight content of chlorophyll, one of the very few vegetables that contain a decent amount of Omega 3 ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). It is rich in calcium, copper, iron, potassium, and also high in Vitamin B1, B2, C, E and K. It has a high content of beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin.
Indications: bone health, brain health, cancer, cholesterol issues, detox, hemoglobin balance, inflammation, muscle builder, skin health, vision, weight loss
Kohlrabi – alkaline, rich in dietary fiber, carotenoids, vitamins A, C, K and the B vitamins. Filled with various anti-oxidants that protect against colon and prostate cancer. Rich in calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, manganese and copper.
Indications: acidosis, asthma, cancer, cholesterol, heart problems, indigestion, muscle and nerve functions, prostate and colon cancer, skin problems, weight loss.
Lemon & Lime – both excellent sources of vitamin C, B6, potassium, folate, flavonoids and the outstanding phytochemical, limonene (anti-cancer effects and helps increase the level of enzymes that detoxify carcinogens)
Indications: asthma, burning soles/feet, cholera, cold, constipation, digestion, slow metabolism, swollen gums, heartburn, inflammatory disorders, dry skin, common cold and flu.
Orange – excellent source of vitamin C and flavonoids. Albedo of the orange (the white matter under the peel) contains the highest amount of valuable bioflavonoids and other anti-cancer agents. Good source of vitamin A, the B vitamins, amino acids, beta-carotene, pectin, potassium, folate, calcium, iodine, phosphorus, sodium, zinc, manganese, chlorine and iron.
Indications: arteriosclerosis, cancer prevention, cholesterol, constipation, damage sperm, heart disease, hight blood pressure, immune system, kidney stones, skin issues, stomach ulcer, viral infections.
Parsley – Parsley provides nature’s best carotenoids and is a nutrition powerhouse of a few known anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients and flavonoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, apiole, rutin and apigenin). Super rich with chlorophyll, vitamin A, B, C, and K, folate and iron. It has high mineral contents: calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, vanadium, and zinc.
Indications: anemia, atherosclerosis, arthritis, bad breath (halitosis), bladder/kidney problems, UTI, water retention, cancer, free radicals, hair growth, hearth health, immune system boost, menstruation disorders, vision, wound healing.
Parsnip – anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, rich in potassium, manganese, magnesium, zinc, iron, folate and phosphorous. It is also an excellent source of fiber, as well as vitamins B, C, E and K.
Indications: anemia and blood health, blood sugar levels, bones and teeth health, cardiovascular health, immune system, gut health, respiratory health, skin health.
Pear – Pears are excellent source of water-soluble fiber. They contain vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, folate and niacin. It is also rich in copper, phosphorus and potassium, with lesser amounts of calcium, chlorine, iron, magnesium, sodium and sulfur.
Indications: blood pressure, cancer, cholesterol issues, colon health, constipation, energy and stamina, fever, immune booster, inflammation, osteoporosis, pregnancy, shortness of breath, common cold, vocal chord issues.
Pineapple – loaded with vitamin C, B1 and smaller amounts of B2, B3, B5 and B6. It is also an excellent source of manganese, copper, magnesium, potassium, beta-carotene, folic acid, and dietary fiber. Contains a large amount of Bromelain enzyme which is an amazing natural pain killer, anti-inflammatory agent, stimulates hormonal secretions in the pancreas and it neutralizes fluids in the body so it’s neither too alkaline nor too acidic.
Indications: pain, atherosclerosis, blood clotting, bone health, cough, digestion, high blood pressure, immune system, inflammatory conditions, carpal tunnel syndrome, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, injuries, post surgery, respiratory conditions, common cold, vision health.
Pomegranate – one of the most powerful anti-oxidants on Earth. Very high content of punicalagins, a potent anti-oxidant component (researches indicate that the capacity of anti-oxidant in this fruit is two or three times higher than that of red wine and green tea). good source of vitamin B (riboflavin, thiamin and niacin), vitamin C, calcium and phosphorus.
Indications: anemia, parasites and human worms, anti-aging, asthma, excessive bleeding, cancer, immune booster, increases appetite, morning sickness/nausea, common cold.
Rhubarb – anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, super rich in vitamin A, Vitamin B, C, and K. Great source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals, including copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, oxalic acid.
Indications: Alzheimer’s disease, bone problems, cancer, cholesterol issues, diabetes, digestive disorders, immune system, vision, fever.
Spinach – one of the most nutrient-packed vegetables and its raw juice is an excellent source of chlorophyll. It is also a superb source of vitamins A, B complex, C, E, K, carotenes, folate, manganese, calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, some trace elements and many valuable amino acids. The minerals in spinach are highly alkaline, making it helpful in regulating the body pH. Fantastic source of protein (meat alternative). Anti-inflammatory properties.
Indications: acidosis, anemia, atherosclerosis, bleeding gums, cancer, digestive system issues, vision, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, pregnancy and lactation, viral infections.
Swiss chard – Hight in vitamins K, A, C, E as well as riboflavin and vitamin B6. It is also high in dietary fiber and rich in polyphenolic antioxidants. Strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Indications: cancer, blood circulation, bone health, brain health, diabetes, vision, heart health.
Tomato – excellent source of vitamins C, B6 and K, betacarotene, biotin, niacin, potassium, phosphorous, calcium, iron, zinc and selenium, as well as of many organic acids such as citric and malic acids. Powerful anti-oxidant—the carotenoid pigment lycopene, which provides the fruit’s red color. Anti-cancer properties.
Indications: anemia, body detox, bone and teeth health, digestive system, skin health, heart health, stress, tiredness and fatigue.
Turmeric – one of the most powerful healing properties on the planet. Strong anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. It contains calcium, copper, fiber, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium and zinc. Turmeric is also rich in vitamin C, D, K, and several B-vitamins.
It has small amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Indications: pain, cardiovascular health, skin health, immune system, IBD, liver health, rheumatoid arthritis and much more.
Wheatgrass – super powerful antioxidant (very high content of chlorophyll at about 70%), it’s a complete food and an excellent source of vitamin C, E, K and B complex (including B12). In the minerals department, it is rich in calcium, cobalt, germanium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, protein, sodium, sulphur, and zinc. This miracle grass also has a long list of amino acids—about 17 types of them and about 80 known enzymes. Anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-bacterial properties.
Indications: acidosis, Alzheimer’s Disease, anemia, bad breath, body building, cancer, candida, diabetes, high blood pressure, immune system, tooth pain, weight loss, wound healing.
Enjoy your healthy juice!
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References:
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/juicing-health-risks-and-benefits#1
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/04/19/juicing-benefits.aspx
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