If you are new to juicing, experimenting with raw fruits and vegetables can quickly displease your palate -- and your wallet -- if you don't know the basics. To gain the entire complement of phytochemicals, enzymes and vitamins in fresh juice, only fresh-made juices are encouraged for juice fasts.
Step 1
Select a gear juicer, not a blender or centrifugal one if possible. Use a juicer that will provide large quantities of fresh juice with ease, as well as a quick clean-up.
Step 2
Choose fruits and vegetables carefully, tossing any that have holes or bruises in the peel. Wash the fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
Step 3
Plan to drink at least three or four 8 oz. glasses of juice a day -- so buy enough fruits and vegetables -- according to Doctor Yourself. Drink more to stave off cravings or hunger; you will also need to drink plenty of fresh water during the fast.
Step 4
Peel vegetables with bitter skin, such as beets or zucchini, prior to juicing. Cut apples into quarters and remove the core. You can juice the leaves of most vegetables, including celery leaves to add flavor and nutrients.
Step 5
Pick your favorite vegetables and toss them in the juicer. There is no magic recipe for juicing; if you use fresh fruits and vegetables you will get fresh vitamins, minerals and enzymes, regardless of the combination.
Step 6
Add herbs and seasonings to taste. Garlic, onions and parsley add flavor to juices. Carrots, tomatoes and apples can mask the bitter taste of some vegetables, such as kale. Try adding beets for a naturally sweet flavor.
Step 7
Drink your freshly-made juice immediately after juicing, if possible. The longer the juice sits, the more nutrients, such as enzymes, break down and lose efficacy Store unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Refrigerated juices only maintain their potency for a few hours after juicing.
Step 8
Experiment with vegetables and fruits to please your palate. The MD Anderson Cancer Center of the University of Texas suggests juicing 3 kale leaves, 1/2 cup broccoli, 1/2 cabbage head, 2 medium carrots and 2 small apples for a tasty juice packed with vitamins A, C and K.
Tips and Warnings
- Some fresh vegetable juices will alter the color of your bowel movements, such as beets.
Things You'll Need
- Juicer
- Romaine lettuce
- Celery
- Broccoli
- Beets
- Zucchini
- Carrots
- Apples
- Parsley
- Garlic
- Onion
- Spinach
- Cabbage
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