Sun’s out, juicers out
May 25, 2022
There is something about waking up to a glass of cold, refreshing, freshly squeezed juice on a warm, sunny morning that makes life more enjoyable. Not only do I feel energized but I find that juicing the right combination of fruits and vegetables makes it easier to get my nutrients in for the day. I feel more satiated and can keep cravings for junk food at bay. For some reason, I find that my productivity is also boosted by drinking this juice. All these benefits from the simple act of juicing sound too good to be true so let’s break it down with science!
Celery
Celery is a staple in my juice. Not only is it easier to digest in a liquid form, but it also keeps my sensitive teeth at bay from not having to chomp down on this stalky vegetable. Remember when I said I feel satiated and well overall more positive? As per Cathy Cassata from Healthline, the science shows that celery juice leaves individuals feeling more full, balances your blood sugar levels, maintains healthy cholesterol levels, feeds the good bacteria in your gut, boosts your immunity, and even helps reduce your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. [1] All of these benefits are so incredible, I don’t see why one wouldn’t get the urge to get up and juice some celery! To be clear, juicing celery versus eating celery really shows no scientific difference in terms of benefits, but juicing is easier and makes maintaining a healthy lifestyle more convenient as well.
Some people claim to have lost a significant amount of weight since introducing celery into their diet or having gained clearer skin. The fact is that celery helps keep cravings at bay hence, individuals are less likely to overeat and as a result, lose weight. Furthermore, the lower sugar content and fewer calories within this vegetable help curb cravings, especially in individuals who are insulin resistant. [1] This is why drinking celery juice is a greater alternative to smoothies containing excessively high levels of sugar.
Apple
An apple a day keeps the doctor away so throw in an apple to your juicer! Apples are wonderful fruits for their support in maintaining hydration, and supporting heart health and may even help protect your brain as you age as per Marsha McCulloch from Healthline. [2] However, it is notable to mention that juicing can reduce other benefits available when eating apples, including fibre and the ability to satiate yourself. Yet you can still add an apple to your juice for the wonderful flavour that apples bring and compensate for any nutrient deficiencies with other vegetables as per your needs!
Orange
Oranges are non-negotiable when it comes to juicing and to your health. Orange juice is an excellent source of fibre and studies suggest that fibre helps in the maintenance of digestive health and may lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even some types of cancer. [3]
Lemon
If you know me, you know I have a thing for citrus fruits! Lemon has always been the go-to natural remedy for things like sore throats or weight loss. But in juicing you can find help with clearing your skin, cancer-fighting benefits, promotion of your digestion, and many wonderful antioxidants that will help improve your immune system. [4]
Ice
Now, ice is more of a personal preference because I prefer cold juice instead of room temperature, but there are benefits associated with cold beverages! By adding ice you can help potentially increase your metabolism and see some help with weight loss, results will vary from person to person, so go with what you like! [5]
I think it's time for you to do some grocery shopping and invest in a juicer if you are able to! Speaking from personal experience, I have seen a very positive change since I introduced juicing into my life and I will never go back! Now, would you like me to pour you a glass? Cheers to putting your health first!
[1] https://www.healthline.com/health-news/celery-juice-healthy-or-hype
[2] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/apple-juice-benefits
[3] https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-orange-juice#1
[4] https://share.upmc.com/2014/08/7-health-benefits-lemon-juice/
[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325038#summary