This week we welcome back the fabulous Rochelle to give us the inside look at the benefits of juices and smoothies!
“Juicing has literally changed my life. It all started when I purchased a tailor made 5 day juice detox program. My reason for doing the detox was to break some habits that had become more of an addiction in my life than a treat. Things like coffee, wine and sugar. I went into the program doubtful that i would accomplish much as my willpower is not my strong point. But to my surprise I did the 5 days with ease. The physical and mental improvements I felt were so impressive that I decided to incorporate cold pressed juices or smoothies into my daily life.
I firstly want to explain the difference between traditional juicing methods and cold pressed method now commonly used. Regular juicing does not use the whole fruit, it just squeezes the juice out so you are losing valuable nutrients. It also does not work well on leafy greens and it’s not possible to add healthy supplements such as chia seeds, dates, psyllium husks, LSA and protein powder to name a few.
Cold pressed juicing works by pressing and crushing the fruit without blades and you end up with more nutrients. Cold pressed juicers can be expensive so the other option is a high powered food processor such as a nutri bullet which is what I use.
The process is very easy. Simply cut up the fruit and veg of your choice, add water or coconut water, add any seeds or supplements you might like to use, and blend. Using a nutri bullet the consistency will be thicker and more ‘smoothie like’ than with a cold pressed juicer so experiment with water levels.
Mornings are crazy in my house trying to get four kids up, fed, dressed and out the door. Rushing them through a complete & healthy breakfast is basically impossible. Giving my kids a homemade juice (which I usually prepare the night before) gives me peace of mind that they have received a heap of vitamins and minerals to start their day.
For me personally digestion has always been an issue. Since incorporating a big smoothie each day, my tummy is so much happier and my trips to the bathroom have become like clockwork and much more, er, satisfactory! My skin is clearer, people tell me I’m glowing. My eyes are brighter and I have more energy. I’m not as hungry and I don’t crave coffee. And a big one for me, my sleep pattern has improved.
I am getting almost my entire days requirement of nutrients and vitamins in a drink. I suggest having one for breakfast, or lunch with a some food depending on hunger. If you are a stay at home mom make up a large smoothie in the morning, keep in the fridge and sip throughout the day to combat cravings.
You can throw anything into your juice/smoothie according to your tastebuds. If you’re not a huge veggie fan rest assured most vegetable taste can be masked using the right fruit. Where you can, leave the skin on as it generally contains a lot of extra nutrients.
Below I have listed the health issues addressed by consuming certain popular fruit and vegetables. This way you can custom design your drink to meet your needs.
Apple: regulates blood sugar, cleansing, for bone health, high in fibre for fullness
Celery: Balances sodium levels, eliminates excess fluid, anti inflammatory
Beetroot: encourages good blood flow, lowers cholesterol, improves bowel function
Lemon: Eliminates toxins, aids digestion, improves immunity, aids weight management, lowers blood pressure
Pear: aids weight loss, improves complexion, assists in overall health
Cucumber: for healthy hair, skin and nails, anti inflammatory, for brain health, assists in stress management
Berries: aids mental health, assists weight control, supports urinary tract wellness, lowers blood pressure.
Kale: anti depressant, anti cancer properties, anti viral, anti inflammatory
Banana: combats depression, improves immunity, treats PMS,
Tomato: lowers blood pressure, for healthy vision, assists in lung health
Orange: promotes healthy skin, prevents wrinkles, assists in prenatal wellbeing, supports eye health, aids immunity
Zucchini: aids digestion, helps in the production of sex hormones, helps to prevent arthritis, lowers blood pressure
Carrot: for eye health, for colon health, offers neurological support
Spinach: Strengthens immunity, anti cancer properties, maintains blood sugar levels, prevents constipation, healthy hair & skin, lowers blood pressure & cholesterol
Grapefruit: for digestion, helps weight loss, supports heart health, reduces wrinkles
Avocado: for prenatal health, fights depression, aids digestion & bowel movements, supports eye health
Watermelon: prevents constipation, assists muscle recovery, prevents dehydration, for heart health
Pineapple: aids digestion, assists in healing sprains & muscle injuries, anti inflammatory”
Meet Rochelle!
“I’m a single mom of 4 kids aged 5, 8, 10 & 16. One boy and three girls. We live by the beach in Sydney, Australia. I developed a passion for health, wellbeing, fitness and the effect food has on our mind and body after watching my mother die at a young age from cancer. I am a nature lover, animal lover and have a great respect for the earth and our environment. I want my children to know where their food comes from and the truth behind the influences of modern-day society. I live by the mindset to never judge anyone. Kindness & compassion go a long way.”
Follow Rochelle on Instagram @miss_rochelle_lee
photos: food photos from unsplash.com
DISCLAIMER
We are not doctors, registered dietitians or fitness experts. The purpose of FashionAveMom health, fitness and wellness posts are to share other mothers’ experiences of striving to fit exercise into a healthy work/life balance and as such the content of this website is in no way meant to replace professional advice.
When it comes to your health and fitness, please do your research and consult a medical or fitness professional before embarking on any diet or exercise plan.
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