Food – Joys of Juicing

“Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor of intellect, that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 363.

With juice bars and “elixir cafés” springing up in cities throughout North America, it might be tempting to think that juicing is a new trend. But it’s really just the latest manifestation of a centuries old health practice. And in this age of genetically modified, over-refined, chemical-laden non-food, this rediscovery of juicing has never been more appropriate.

Research consistently shows that people who eat the greatest quantity of fruits and vegetables are about half as likely to develop cancer as those who eat little or no fresh fruits and vegetables. So it’s not surprising that the United States Cancer Institute recommends eating 5 servings of fresh vegetables and 3 servings of fresh fruit each day.

Still, even the most disciplined person can find it difficult to eat all those fruits and vegetables every day. So why not drink them? Raw fresh juices, blended drinks and homemade frozen treats are an easy and a tasty way to ensure that adults and children get their “daily 8.”

Taken as part of a healthy diet—and in amounts that are reasonable—juices round out our daily requirement for fresh fruits and vegetables. More importantly they are the very best way to obtain the nutrients and phytochemicals those foods contribute to our health and well-being.

Smoothies are thick, creamy fruit dishes that are delicious anytime. They are simple combinations of 1/2 to 1 cup fresh fruit juice and 1 cup fresh fruit. Bananas are usually included because they thicken the drink. Small amounts of other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, spices and herbs are optional. Nut milks may be used in place of soymilk or some fruit juices. Pat Crocker, The Juicing Bible, Robert Rose Inc., Toronto, Quebec, Canada, 2008.