I’ve previously shared that I love smoothies as a quick and easy way to pack in vital nutrients in my family’s diet. Recently, I learned that juicing is another effective way to accomplish the same goal so I’ve been digging around to find more information on what it is, how to do it, and most importantly, to discover yummy recipes to try. I’ve uncovered the basic do’s and don’ts of juicing, along with plenty of delicious recipes to help get you started if you want to integrate this healthy habit into your family’s life.
The Difference Between Juices and Smoothies
First of all, let’s talk about the differences between juices and smoothies.
The advantage of juicing is that they are less filling than smoothies so it’s an easy way to load up on fruits and vegetables alongside, or in addition to, a meal. If your goal is to get the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables, juicing is an easy way to do it. Many people like juicing because it gives them an opportunity to experiment with foods they wouldn’t normally add to their diet (e.g. kale, beets). And once you’ve starting filling up on vital nutrients, you should notice that you have more energy and feel better overall.
On the downside, you’ll need a juicer (an ordinary blender won’t do the job), which is another thing you have to buy and store. And, because juicing strips produce of its fiber (that’s why it doesn’t fill you up), you’ll need to find other sources to make sure you get enough fiber each day.
Juicers
Before you can start juicing, you’ll need a juicer. Like most kitchen appliances, buying a juicer isn’t as simple as it sounds. There are literally hundreds to choose from and there are a variety of different types. If you’re just starting out, you don’t necessarily want to spend several hundred dollars (or a couple thousand!) on a juicer because until you’ve decided whether or not this is an appliance you’re going to use often. That’s why I recommend starting with an affordable model with good performance reviews. If juicing becomes a passion of yours and you want to invest in a professional machine down the road, this starter juicer can always be lent out to your friends who are considering buying their own juicer, or given to your child when he/she starts college to encourage healthy eating habits at school.
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Juice Recipes
Now that you know why you might want to consider juicing and how to go about it the right way, here are some recipes to help you get started.
Lemon Ginger Green Juice with Kale
Super Mommy Club also has a Juicing Guide and Recipe Book you can download for free. It contains over 100 juice recipes!
Thanks for adding my juice recipe! Nice to meet you!