A guide to juices
While celebs are endorsing a range of juice flavours - kale, cucumber, chia, spinach and mint being the popular ingredients of the season, sometimes simple is better.
If you are looking to get into juicing and want a selection of ingredients, do remember to make vegetables the main focus. While fruit tastes much better, they are full of sugar and an excess of this may hinder the benefits.
However, fruit also has its benefits, below are seven juices that are rich in essential nutrients:
Blueberry juice
Blueberries are rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, drinking this juice in the morning may help reduce the risks of developing mental health disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Studies found there was a link between blueberry juice and cognitive aging. Results showed that the people who started drinking blueberry juice had higher scores on memory tests than those who were given other drinks.
Introducing the juice into your diet can also help lower blood pressure and may prevent diabetes.
Watermelon juice
Watermelons are over 90% water. Watermelon juice is one of the most hydrating choices, containing antioxidants that help decrease the risks of heart disease and high blood pressure. This is a good option to have post-workout as watermelons contain citrulline, helping to lower the chances of inflammation and reduce muscle pain (the fruit is also rich in amino acid, a natural way to boost a man’s libido).
Cranberry juice
Cranberries are known for their ability to fight off urinary tract infections, but regular consumption of cranberry juice can also help prevent kidney stones. Cranberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants - nicknamed the anti-inflammatory powerhouse. You could also add them to your diet as breakfast toppings.
Pomegranate juice
Pomegranate juice is rich in vitamins E and C, helping reduce wrinkles and protect our skin against sun damage. Pomegranates are full of antioxidants - regular consumption can help reduce inflammation and the fruit’s phytochemicals can help stop the growth of aromatase, a major enzyme said to cause breast cancer.
Grapefruit juice
This juice can help reduce water retention, strengthen the immune system and boost the metabolism. To manage weight and control your blood sugar, opt for the ruby reds.
Beetroot juice
The deep red of the beetroot is due to the betalain, vital for detoxifying the liver. To get the benefits of beetroot, you don’t need to go overboard - one glass of beet juice a week will be enough to stimulate the enzymes that detox your body.
Orange juice
Rich in vitamin C, orange juice can fight off harmful free radicals. Drink a nice glass of orange juice in the morning to keep your immune system healthy - it can also help reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.