Healthy Vegetable Juice
Posted on 23. Aug, 2010 by juice gal in juice detox
Is Vegetable Juice Healthy?
Vegetables are healthy, no question about that. A great variety of vitamins and minerals is found in vegetables. Most contain calcium, but no single vegetable contains all nutrients. Some, such as spinach, carrots, and cabbage are rich in vitamins A. While broccoli and squashes, as well as many beans provide vitamin B. Green peppers and carrots contain a lot of vitamin C, and kale, potatoes, and lima beans are full of iron. As you can probably gather, it is best to eat (or drink) a variety of vegetables to get the most nutrition.
For the most benefit it is advised that you prepare your own juices at home. This is easily done with a juice extractor, also called a juicer machine. Fresh juice is much better for your body than store bought juices. Pre-packaged juices may contain preservatives and have usually been pasteurized (heated). The pasteurized juices have lost many vital nutrients, not to mention the fact that they sit on the shelf for more than 24 hours and may experience oxidation. Some juices also contain sodium and more fruit than vegetable ingredients. In a pinch though store bought juices may be acceptable.
What You Don’t Get
Vegetable juice prepared in a juice extractor will separate and remove the fiber. For some applications, such as juice detoxing, this is preferred. Lack of fiber in the juice makes it easier for your body to digest and creates an environment of fasting. The body still gets the nutrients, which are absorbed in the blood stream, but the colon is not processing the fiber.
Vegetables vs Fruits
Both vegetables and fruits are beneficial to the body but vegetables to have some advantages. The sugar content in vegetables is generally much lower than that of fruits. Fruit juices tend to pass through the body much more quickly and after a couple of drinks you may feel the jittery effect.
In summary vegetable juice is one of the most healthiest beverages. By juicing your own drinks you can choose and mix the foods that are most suited to your taste and health needs. Happy juicing!
