Juicing owes its popularity to the health benefits and convenience of consuming large amounts of fruits and vegetables. Both fruit and vegetable juices are rich sources of antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, which promote good health. Juicing benefits include receiving essential nutrients, quick absorption and meeting daily dietary recommendations. Adding a variety of fruits to your juicing concoctions can increase these benefits, but generally you should choose fruits with rich sources of nutrients.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a nutrient-packed fruit with a mixture of sweet and tart flavors. These versatile berries contain only 40 calories in a one-half cup and offer rich sources of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and phytochemicals. Oregon State University reports that studies have shown blueberries assist in disease prevention, anti-aging, reducing cholesterol, eyesight health, cosmetic benefits and in the prevention of urinary tract infections. Blueberries also tend to last longer than other berries because of the protective waxy coating on their skins. When buying fresh, choose blueberries with a plump and firm texture and dark blue color. To cut back on cost, buy frozen blueberries and take them out as you need them.
Pineapples
Pineapples are a widely used fruit for juicing because of their taste and nutritional benefits. The pineapple season tends to run from March to June, but you can find pineapples in most supermarkets year-round. Popular varieties of pineapples include Red Spanish, Sugar Loaf, Gold and Smooth Cayenne. They contain rich sources of vitamin C, B-1 and B-6, manganese, copper and dietary fiber. Pineapple juice also contains a unique protein-digesting enzyme called bromelain, which may have anti-inflammatory effects and support digestion. Select heavy and firm pineapples, with a fresh fragrance.
Grapefruits
Grapefruits come in many varieties, colors and flavors. These medium to large sized citrus fruits originate from the West Indies and as of 2010 the U.S. crop is mostly grown in Florida. The nutrients that grapefruits provide include high amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A, potassium, calcium, fiber, folate, thiamine, niacin, magnesium and phytochemicals. These juicy edible fruits also contain no cholesterol, sodium or saturated fats. Popular varieties of grapefruits include Ruby Red, Marsh White and Flame. Remove the grapefruit skin before juicing, but include the fruit pulp for more fiber content.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests speaking to your doctor if you take medications because grapefruit and some other citrus juices can adversely interfere with some of them.
Member Comments