Juicing Up Your Nutrition

July 11, 2007 — -- Vegetable this and vegetable that. Aren't you getting bored of being advised to eat your vegetables?

It is my experience that individuals who are obese generally do not enjoy vegetables. Moreover, preparation can be time-consuming, and sometimes, even chewing can feel like a hassle when you are on the run.

Fortunately, there is a solution for those searching to improve their health and appearance — and maybe even lose some pounds in a healthy and safe fashion.

The solution is juicing, and it may come as a surprise to some that it was actually many thousands of years ago when the benefits of juicing were discovered.

When you squeeze out the juice of the fruit or vegetable, you receive a concentration of minerals, vitamins and enzymes. So, on those days when you have neither the time or motivation to eat your vegetables, three to four juices per day can ensure that you receive more nutrients than you would if you just gave vegetables a pass altogether.

Some look to juicing regimens as weight-loss solutions as well. Indeed, there are many benefits for juicing.

First, you give your digestive system a rest so that your body has time to put its energy, besides digesting, into elimination, recovery and healing.

Juicing gives your digestive system a rest, including the stomach, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder and liver.

During this process, your cells have the time to catch up with their work as well. They can repair themselves and detoxify. Some say they experience new energy, a clearer complexion, and clarity of mind and body.

Keep in mind, though, that juicing and fasting are two different things. Do not mix them up. Fasting means that you are not eating; rather, you provide your body with water alone.

By juicing, you still provide your body with the nutrients from fresh-squeezed vegetables and fruits. For many, this mitigates the problem of protein breakdown that they face when fasting.

Of course, if protein and muscle tissue breakdown is a concern, some juicers just add on brown rice milk or soy milk to provide extra amino acids. Keep in mind, though, that powders and high-protein diets also add on more toxin buildup.