The one thing I have always known is the health, nutrition and healing benefits of drinking fresh Juice. That is why I more and more have been graduating towards being a raw Vegan. I know we need the nutrients from unheated food and juicing is a good starter. Plus for those who have time constraints it is also a great way to get nutrition on the run.

I still have my first book on juicing. The book is Raw Juice Therapy by John B. Lust, and I bought it way back in the 60's. Even my juicer is ancient as I purchased it many years ago. It still works well so I have never bothered to upgrade it.

There are various types of juicers available, the main ones being the centrifugal juicer and the masticating juicer. The centrifugal juicer works by spinning the veggies and fruit at a high velocity which will separates the liquid their membranes. The masticating juicer presses and crushes the fruit and vegetables and strains the juice through a screen. A specialized juicer is required to juice grasses so many prefer to purchase wheatgrass and/or barleygrass dehydrated juice.

Juice provides the body with carbohydrate, protein, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, enzymes, anti-oxidants, and flavonoids. It is absorbed quickly and easily. It can cleanse, energize and rejuvenate the body. Juice eliminates cravings so are valuable to those with food or other addictions.

Interesting facts on some raw veggies and fruits:

a) Purple and red grapes and berries contain anthocyanins which boost short term memory, boost metabolism and stimulate the burning of stored fat in the body. 

b) Apples (and blackand green tea) contain catechins activate fat burning genes assisting with weight loss.

c) Yellow, orange and dark green veggies and fruit contain carotenoids which strengthen eyesight, boost immunity, helps prevent heart disease and rejuvenates. 

d) Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage contain isothiocyanates protect DNA in cells from damage by carcinogens.

e) Grape skins also contain a flavonoid called resveratrol which protects the brain.

If unable to drink the juice immediately, correct storage is very impotant. To prevent oxidation by the air, fill a jar or bottle right to the top with the juice and seal. Refrigerate. Drink juice within 24 hours.When ready to drink let it return to room temperature first.

No need to not add juice as part of your daily diet, whether buying fresh juice from the shop or buying a juicer and doing it yourself, there are juicers to fit every budget. To get the best flavour and nutrition try to pick organic, in season, locally grown produce.

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There are many different versions of the broth, this is the one I make. Flushes system of toxins, poisons and unwanted salts and acids. Vitamin and mineral boost. Prevents PMS amd menopause headaches.

2 cups organic carrots, unpeeled

1 cup organic beetroot or beet tops

1 cup organic celery

1 cup organic baby spinach

1/2 cup parsley

1/2 tsp garlic juice or 1 tsp onion juice

1 quart / 1 litre filtered water

Drink 1 or 2 cups daily. Refrigerate leftover and use within 2 days.

From Juicer Reviews and Best Juicer Recipes

Many nutrients are lost during the production of the commercial variety, so make your own ~ Jackie.

3 large tomatoes

3 stalks celery

5 carrots (medium sized)

1 small beet

1/4 head fresh cabbage

1-2 bell pepper (red or green, or both)

2 cups spinach

2-3 kale leaves

1/4 sweet onion

1/2 clove garlic (optional)

Juice all the vegetables using your juicer, and enjoy as is, chilled, or with ice. If you must, add some chili pepper and/or salt to taste (optional).