Juice – Page 4 – Juice Health Benefits & Recipes

15 Mar

Best Grapes For Grape Juice And How To Choose Them

Grape varieties may be more commonly associated with wine than juice, but grape juice is refreshing treat that can easily be made at home. While the most common red and green grape varieties make delicious snacks, they are unsuitable for juicing. The following guide can help you choose the best grapes for juicing so you can enjoy a tall glass of sweet and tangy grape juice at home.

Concord Grapes

These small dark grapes are the most popular American variety and are much hardier than European varieties. Widely regarded as the best grapes for juicing, Concord grapes have a sweet and slightly tart flavor that also makes delicious jellies and jams. The grapes create the quintessential taste and color that most people associate with grape juice. Grown in the northern and midwestern regions of the United States, these grapes are readily available throughout the year but are best from late summer to mid-fall.

Niagara Grapes

Stemming from New York, these white grapes are one of the best grapes for juicing because of their light and sweet flavor that is more mild than other varieties. The white fruit also yields a lighter-colored juice that is less likely to cause stains than purple varieties like the Concord.

Delaware Grapes

Grown throughout the northeast region of the United States, Delaware grapes are great for juicing because of their juicy flesh and sweet taste. These lovely grapes are smaller than the aforementioned varieties and are pinkish in color. Delaware grapes ripen quickly in late summer and early fall and yield a light-colored juice that will not stain the hands that made it.

Choosing Grapes for Juicing

Concord, Niagara and Delaware grapes reach their peak around late summer and last until mid-fall. Many people believe that grapes can be immediately placed in the juicer as soon as they turn color, but even darkened grapes can yield a bitter and sour juice.

For best results, choose grapes mid-season that feel firm. Sample a few grapes from each cluster, as not all of the grapes will ripen at the same time. Look for seeds that are brown and mature instead of light tan or green. The ease in which the grapes come off of the cluster is another indication of ripeness. Ripe grapes can be removed easily without much resistance.

Before putting your grapes in the juicer, wash them throughly and remove the stems. Concord, Delaware and Niagara grapes are easy to skin and only the flesh should be placed in the juicer.

12 Mar

Fig Juice Side Effects: Can You Drink Too Much?

The fig fruit is well known for its powers as a laxative. The consumption of fig juice in large quantities is linked to loose stools. Those interested in consuming large quantities of fig juice for the many benefits or simply for the taste should build up to the desired amount. Otherwise, it is possible to suffer from abdominal cramping, pain, and diarrhea. Young children should particularly be watched closely if a great deal of fig juice is consumed. Normal amounts of fig juice should be safe for anyone.

Women who are pregnant or who suspect they may be pregnant should discuss fig juice side effects with their physician prior to consuming large quantities. There are no known fig juice side effects if consumed in smaller quantities.

12 Mar

Best Watermelons For Watermelon Juice And How To Choose Them

Watermelon can pose a special challenge to a juicer because of the rind and seeds. To avoid this problem, you can choose a seedless watermelon variety and do a little prep-work to remove most of the rind before juicing. If your juicer can handle it, the watermelon rind is actually full of nutrients and can provide an extra dimension to your juice.

What Are the Best Watermelons for Juicing?

Watermelons are available year-round in most areas, but grocery stores usually stock them in the highest quantities during the summer months. In July and August, Watermelon is easy to find on sale, making even large quantities very affordable.

Seedless varieties are the best choice for juicing, but many juicers are able to work with whole seeded fruits very easily. Be sure to check your machine to see if there are any limitations to seeds or rinds before juicing your product.

Watermelon varieties vary in size from small five-pound melons to massive fruits of 30 pounds or more. Depending on how much juice you want, you may want to buy a smaller melon; watermelon doesn’t keep very well once it’s been cut as the flesh will dry out and become grainy fairly quickly.

Small seedless melons include Extazy, Mickylee and Pixie. Other popular varieties for juicing include the Starbrite and Sweet Favorite. Any watermelon in the market will be good for juicing, however, so pick whatever looks freshest.

How to Choose a Watermelon at the Market

The process of choosing a watermelon for juicing is very similar to choosing one for eating. Once you get the hang of it, picking the best watermelon variety is very easy.

Most grocery stores provide whole watermelons as well as pre-cut slices. Whole melons are the best for juicing. They have a better texture and are often sweeter and fresher-tasting than melons that have been already prepared. If you do opt for sliced melon, be sure to choose one with dark-colored flesh and no white streaking.

The best watermelons for juicing will have firm, unblemished skin that is neither too dull nor too shiny. It should feel heavy for its size and if you tap on it, it will sound slightly hollow. Watermelons that are not fully ripe will have a duller response to being tapped.

Fresh watermelon should also have one side that is paler in color to the others. This area may be cream, yellow or pale green. This is the part of the fruit that touched the ground while ripening, and shows that the watermelon was allowed to mature on the vine before picking. Watermelons without this will not be as sweet as those that ripened on the vine and will not produce as much juice.

10 Mar

Elderberry Juice Side Effects – Can You Drink Too Much Of It?

Checking for the safety recommendations and possible side effects of any juice is important before drinking large quantities. Elderberry juice has a few special characteristics that its users should know about.

Parts of the Elderberry Plant

Some parts of the elderberry plant, such as the stems, roots and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides. These are substances that release the poison commonly known as cyanide. While these parts of the plant are not safe to consume, the berries themselves can be eaten raw or cooked. Elderberry juice that is prepared from cooked berries is generally safe and free of side effects. No standard safety level for use has been established.

Uncooked Berries and Gastrointestinal Effects

Uncooked berries can be used to make juice, but its use may lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Elderberry juice side effects are particularly pronounced with the use of unripe fruit.

Diuretic Effects Is One Of Possible Elderberry Juice Side Effects

Because of their tendency to promote the loss of excess fluid, elderberries could potentially cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. This is probably only a risk if used for long periods and in large amounts.

Hypoglycemia

Since it is known to reduce blood glucose levels, elderberry juice should be used with caution by those who are at risk of experiencing low blood sugar. This includes diabetics who use oral medications or insulin to control their glucose levels.

Neurological Effects

Uncooked berries may cause numbness and altered sensation. When used as a laxative, raw elderberry juice side effects can include dizziness, light-headedness and stupor.

Special Considerations

Elderberry is known to boost immune system function. People who suffer with autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis should avoid using it as it could make symptoms worse. It is not clear whether elderberry juice is safe during pregnancy and breast feeding. For safety, its use is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. Long-term consumption of the juice has not been studied. It is believed to be safe when used for up to five days.

09 Mar

Durian Juice Side Effects – Can You Drink Too Much Of It?

Durian juice, which is extracted from durian fruit, has an odor that is quite offensive to some, being described as similar to smelling rotten onions, rotten fruit, road kill, moldy clothing, sewage or turpentine. Durian juice side effects are, therefore, experienced by individuals who dislike the odor.

These persons also tend to report a strong aftertaste of turpentine or alcohol. Sometimes, this taste is re-experienced throughout the day when people burp. Due to the strong odor, the fruit is banned from many public places, and could bring an offensive, lingering smell into the home.

When considering Durian juice side effects, one should be aware that uncooked durian seeds should not be processed into the juice, as they contain cyclopropene fatty acids, which are toxic.

Those restricting the intake of high glycemic foods should avoid drinking a lot of durian juice, which has a high glycemic content.

08 Mar

Blueberry Juice Side Effects – Can You Drink Too Much Of It?

While its classification leaves it considered as something that is likely safe for most people, there are a few different blueberry juice side effects that have the potential to affect you. You should familiarize yourself with these possible risks before eating the fruit or drinking its juice.

Salicylate

Raw blueberries and blueberry juice have relatively high levels of salicylate, which is similar in nature to aspirin and comes from salicylic acid. Much like aspirin, salicylate is known to cause stomach irritation and upset in some individuals. However, even if you are prone to salicylate-induced stomach irritation, you will likely find that small amounts of the fruit and its juice are still enjoyable without noticeable ill effects.

Diabetes

Most types of blueberries will not have a negative effect on blood sugar levels. However, there are a few types that can lower your blood sugar levels, and even interfere with diabetes medication and insulin if you are an individual with diabetes. It is recommended that you carefully monitor your blood sugar if you have diabetes and plan on consuming blueberries or blueberry juice.

Tannins

Blueberries contain relatively small amounts of tannins – the same chemical compound that gives coffee its bitter taste – and can cause stomach upset in sensitive individuals. If you consume large amounts of tannins, you are also at a greater risk of liver or kidney damage.

Surgery

Because blueberries and blueberry juice can affect blood sugar levels, this can create difficulty in moderating proper blood sugar levels throughout and after surgery. If you have a surgery planned, it is recommended that you avoid blueberries for at least two weeks beforehand.

Although there are several possible blueberry juice side effects that have negative repercussions, it is still generally considered that blueberries are a safe and healthy fruit. As with all foods, pay attention to your body’s reactions to fruits you digest, and you will likely have nothing to worry about.

07 Mar

Blackcurrant Juice Side Effects – Can You Drink Too Much Of It?

The recommended dose of blackcurrent juice is 1.5 liters per day, because safety has not been reliably demonstrated when this juice is ingested in large quantities. Some individuals report blackcurrant juice side effects, and the juice is not recommended at all for persons suffering from some medical conditions.

Diarrhea

Individuals with sensitive digestion may report diarrhea or mild gastrointestinal upset upon drinking large quantities of this juice.

Do You Suffer From High Blood Pressure?

Drinking more than 1.5 liters a day is not recommended for people who suffer from high blood pressure as blackcurrent juice contains gamma-linolenic acid, which can alter blood pressure and counteract the effect of blood pressure medications.

Blackcurrant Juice Side Effects For People That Suffer From Blood Clotting Disorders And Venous Disorders

Blackcurrant juice contains anticoagulants, so it is not recommended for persons who suffer from blood clotting disorders, such as hemophiliacs. Similarly, the active ingredients in blackcurrant juice may increase peripheral blood flow and circulation, so it should not be consumed by those with venous disorders.

Other Negative Interactions

In addition, blackcurrent juice side effects have been reported in those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as the juice can negatively interact with this medication.

Epilepsy

Blackcurrant juice side effects have been reported in those with epilepsy, as the juice may interact poorly with medications prescribed for this disorder.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as children and the elderly, should monitor their intake as immunity and bodily functions may be compromised or underdeveloped in these demographic groups.

06 Mar

Blackberry Juice Side Effects – Can You Drink Too Much Of It?

There has not been enough research to sufficiently determine whether or not the medicinal use of blackberry juice might have side effects. However, blackberry juice used at levels consistent with typical food and drink portions is currently considered completely safe.

At the time of this writing, the only known blackberry juice side effects that should cause concern are the slight possibilities of nausea and vomiting. This is due to the relatively low level of tannins present in the fruit. Most people will not experience such side effects, but those with sensitive stomachs and a history of chronic gastrointestinal problems should use blackberry juice with caution.

As long as nausea or vomiting are not experienced, there is no evidence to suggest that a person can drink too much blackberry juice.

05 Mar

The Power of Lime And Lime Juice Health Benefits

When it comes to health benefits, lime juice is an absolute powerhouse. The sweet and sour tanginess packs more punch than most multivitamin tablets or health shakes. Everything from weight management to scurvy can be helped by a squeeze of the green. Here is a closer look at the benefits of this magical fruit:

Lime Juice And Beauty

Whether the juice is applied directly to skin or ingested, lime juice has proven itself as a skin beautifier. When applied to the skin, the acid from lime juice acts as an exfoliating agent. A few drops of lime juice can be added to your facial cleanser or daily lotion. If added to your lotion, be sure to use a daily sunscreen since the lime juice will gently reveal a new layer of skin.

When ingested, the high dose of vitamin C found in lime juice acts as a great antioxidant and disinfectant. Lime juice is also credited with healing dandruff, bruising and body odor. Try adding a few drops to your bath, body lotion or shampoo for the most benefits. Also, a few drops of lime juice make drinking water refreshing and nutritious.

Weight Management

Lime has been a daily meal staple in India for centuries. The people of India have long known that lime will aid in digestion, which ultimately aids in managing weight. Lime works in two ways to keep your weight down. First, the wonderful aroma of lime will stimulate your mouth to water, thus stimulating your digestive tract. Second, the flavanoids in lime juice will break down the food which will help the body rid itself of toxins and waste.

In addition, a daily intake of lime juice will keep your body from suffering constipation or irritable bowel syndrome. Some great ways to get the daily benefits of lime is either by sprinkling a few drops over meats or eating a side of lime chutney. Lime chutney is delicious with all meats and most potato dishes. Also, add a few drops of lime juice to your sodas or fruit juices for an extra punch of flavor.

Scurvy

Scurvy has been a dreaded disease for many centuries. The common symptoms associated with scurvy are frequent infections, frequent cough/cold, chronically cracked lips, swollen gums and mouth ulcers. Scurvy is caused by a lack of vitamin C. As long as scurvy has plagued people, lime has been used as both a cure and a preventative form of medicine. Long ago, sailors, factory and farm workers were given lime by their boss to ward off scurvy. People who work in pollution factories and other highly toxic areas are still given lime by their employer to protect them from scurvy. Lime is possibly one of the greatest sources of vitamin C, which your body always needs. Just because you don’t have scurvy, don’t skimp on the powers of vitamin C.

The Power Of Flavanoids

Flavanoids are found in fruits and some vegetables and act as strong antioxidants when ingested. Antioxidants reduce inflammation and slow down the aging process in humans. Furthermore, antioxidants boast the ability to fight cancers and actually heal cellular damage. Lime juice is chalk full of wonderful flavanoids.

The Power Of Vitamin C

We’ve always heard the importance of getting enough vitamin C, but do you know just how powerful this nutrient is? A deficiency in vitamin C can cause more bodily malfunctions than can be imagined. The good news: Lime juice has more vitamin C than can be imagined. Here is a list of the many bodily organs/functions that can be deeply improved with adequate amounts of vitamin C:

vision
gums and mouth
ulcers
urinary tract
kidneys
liver
stomach
respiratory system
colon
prostate
heart
skeletal structure

The health benefits of lime juice cannot be overestimated. It has also helped cure colon cancer, prostate cancer, arthritis, rheumatism, fatigue, cholera, high fever and also diabetes. Lime juice may very well be one of the super foods.

02 Mar

Health Benefits of Passion Fruit Juice

Passion fruit juice is a bright, refreshing way to get fiber as well as vitamins and minerals and other valuable nutrients. You can purchase prepared passion fruit juice at your local supermarket, or make your own from the raw fruit. Either way, you will have a healthy treat to enjoy with breakfast, or any time you are in the mood for a sweet pick-me-up. Passion fruit juice makes a welcome change from the same old orange juice you have been drinking for years, and it has some additional health benefits that most citrus juices don’t possess.

Vitamins and Minerals Are The Source Of Health Benefits of Passion Fruit Juice

Passion fruit juice is chock-full of vitamins and minerals. The vitamin that passion fruit juice is most known for is vitamin A. One 3-ounce serving of passion fruit juice contains almost 20 percent of your daily recommended allowance of vitamin A. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is instrumental in helping maintain keen eyesight, as well as healthy skin, tissues, cones and teeth.

Passion fruit juice is also a good source of vitamin C. While it doesn’t contain quite as much vitamin C as orange juice, one small 3-ounce serving contains 50 percent of the daily recommended allowance of the vitamin. Vitamin C helps maintain a healthy immune system, as well as helps to heal wounds, repair tissues, blood vessels, and cells, and repair teeth and cartilage.

This juice is a good source of potassium, particularly if you squeeze your own juice from raw passion fruit. Potassium is a key mineral for heart health, nerve health, maintaining healthy kidneys, as well as helps the muscles to contract properly. Potassium is also an electrolyte, meaning that it helps to conduct electricity in the body.

Aside from these nutrients, passion fruit juice is a source of iron, magnesium, phosphorous and copper. Iron is essential for maintaining healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the heart and around the body. Magnesium is an important mineral for the creation and use of proteins and energy. Phosphorous helps to form bones and teeth. Finally, copper plays a role in red blood cell formation, as well as helps to maintain the nerves, blood vessels, bones, and immune system.

Antioxidants

The vitamin A and C in passion fruit juice act as antioxidants. This juice also contains other, additional, antioxidants as well. Together, this collection of antioxidants helps to clear the body of free radicals that can cause damage to skin and tissue cells as well as cause cancer.

Fiber

Passion fruit juice is a good source of fiber, particularly if it is prepared from fresh fruit rather than bought processed from a store. Fiber helps add bulk to the stool, which helps you to pass waste more easily. Fiber also helps to remove cholesterol from your system as well as helps to prevent certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer. Leave the pulp in the juice to take advantage of the high amounts of fiber in the pulp.

Alkaloids

This juice is a good source of alkaloids, such as harman. This alkaloid has anti-spasmotic properties, as well as helps to calm the nerves and lower blood pressure. These alkaloids are the main reason why passion fruit juice is thought to be healthy for those with high blood pressure, and clinical studies back the usefulness of this juice for lowering blood pressure. The sedative properties of the alkaloids are also believed to help you fall asleep naturally, reducing the effects of anxiety and insomnia.

Phenolic Acids and Flavonoids

The phenolic acids ad flavonoids in passion fruit juice may help protect the heart, as well as kill germs.

Anti-Inflammatory Substances

Passion fruit juice has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the symptoms of asthma. In addition, substances in passion fruit juice may block histamine, which is the main cause of allergies. Passion fruit juice may help relieve the symptoms of allergies by preventing nasal swelling as well.

These were the main health benefits of passion fruit juice. If you want them (yes you do! :) ) include passion fruit juice in your diet once in a while. Preferably homemade.