Carrot, celery, cucumber, apple, lemon, kale, dandelion greens, beets, beet greens, pineapple, Swiss chard, ginger root, grapes, strawberries, parsley, cilantro – have you ever consumed that many vegetables and fruits in one day? Can you imagine how invigorated your entire body would feel when every cell is nourished by the many micro and macro-nutrients packed into all of those wonderful foods? Thanks to juicing, I consume most of those delicious vegetables and fruits almost every day! And, on the occasional day when I don’t have it, I really miss it!

For years I’ve heard about the health benefits of juicing, but always thought it was too much of a hassle or that it would taste bad. It wasn’t until my mother was diagnosed with cancer that I really started investigating the world of juicing.

After watching Food Matters and The Gerson Miracle, two documentaries that espouse the incredible healing powers of juicing, I became more intrigued with the health potential juicing offers. Both of these films, as well as Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead, are excellent sources to learn more about the benefits of juicing. I encourage you to view them all!

If you are old enough, I’m sure you remember Jack LaLanne – an incredibly fit and strong gentleman who was known for lifting weights and drinking juice, long before it became part of today’s popular fitness culture. Way before Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons, Jack LaLanne had a TV show where he encouraged viewers to exercise along with him. He lived a long and healthy life, while practicing what he preached, and died at the age of 96 in 2011. One of his most notable accomplishments was his promotion of the Jack LaLanne Power Juicer.

I think of Jack when we make our juice using his juicer. When I first started juicing, I tried to use my food processor, but that was a total hassle. Making a small investment in a machine designed for juicing is absolutely worth it! No matter what type of juicer you use, the machine is fairly bulky and heavy, so I suggest setting aside a place on the counter where it is easily accessible.

There are many recipes around for juicing. I have found that it is best to just use whatever is fresh and available – usually a mix of at least five or six types of produce. I always include something that produces a lot of juice like carrots, celery, beets and/or cucumber. Then something green and leafy like chard, kale, beet greens and/or dandelion greens. I always include a lemon and an apple. And, finally something with a little sweetness such as pineapple, grapes or strawberries – but never bananas – they don’t work! Parsley, cilantro and ginger are great detoxing ingredients, but a little of those goes a long way as their flavor is powerful. Whenever possible, please use organic produce and remember to give it a thorough washing.

I can say with all honesty, I have never made a bad combination! Sometimes the color is a brilliant green and other times a deep dark red, but it always tastes delicious! If you find it needs a little sweetness, you can add a little raw honey.

Juicing is a great way to incorporate more vegetables and fruits into your diet. It is addicting and detoxifying. You might even find it helps you loose a few extra pounds! But one thing I know for sure, your body will be so grateful and you will feel wonderful!

Please note that the information provided on the Thyroid Health site on Bella Online is for information and educational purposes only and may not be interpreted as medical advice.

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