Monday, December 2, 2013

Beet, Carrot, and Apple Juice Recipe - Power Juice

"Great things are done by a series of small things brought together."  ~ Vincent Van Gogh


Beets are one of the world's healthiest foods packed with nutrients and antioxidants. They are rich in beta-carotene, iron, magnesium, and vitamin A, B, & C and contain naturally occurring nitrates which help with blood flow and blood pressure.

Many people report feeling full of energy after drinking a glass of beet juice or eating beets. My first recent encounter with a beet was when a coworker introduced me to her beet juice made with ginger and apples. My first thought before I tried it was  negative, and I thought it was going to taste strong, bitter, and 'earthy'. I was absolutely wrong... It was sweet, delicious, clean, and tasted nutritious! Talk about feeling full of energy and not being fatigued at work. It was like some sort of mind boosting and energizing potion. I was even blown away by  seeing a big difference in my cardio workout that night while at the gym. This superfood was definitely one that needed to be added to my list of great foods.

The beet is my favorite vegetable to juice and is so versatile.  My favorite recipe usually calls for me to juice it with something sweet like an apple or pear. I usually add ginger for the spiciness and anti-inflammatory health benefits. Besides the anti-nausea effects that the ginger has, I've even read about its anti-colon cancer properties. Flaxseeds or flaxseed oil is usually added to my juices or smoothies due to the richness in the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). There is also evidence that it could help reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke, as well as protect against certain cancers. The benefits of the Flaxseed are just as impressive as the beet! I usually add a green leafy vegetable such as spinach or kale. Rich in vitamin A, C, and K and minerals, this nutrient dense food is a must to keep in my diet. The carrots of course are known for their richness in beta-carotene which helps with vision.

The Power Juice Recipe

2 organic peeled beets
2 organic apples
2 organic carrots
1/2 cup of organic spinach or kale
2 Tbsp of flaxseed oil
1 Tbsp of raw honey
2 Tbsp of grated ginger
1 cup of water

1. Juice - beets, apples, and carrots (set aside).
2. Blend - spinach, flaxseed oil, ginger, honey, and water. Strain if desired.
3. Combine all Power Juice ingredients together and enjoy!

Depending on how one prefers their consistency and what is on hand, you can definitely use only a juicer or only a blender. I can usually obtain about 24 fluid ounces from this recipe and store the remainder in mason jars for about 24 -36 hours.

Are you a fan of the Beet? Feel free to share your recipes and comments below!


TJ






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