The juicing craze has been trailing on for some time now, but shows no sign of stopping. Juicers are becoming more innovative, venturing away from the banausic green blend and trending new concoctions. Maturation of the juice industry has invited a new consumer to more delectable flavor and the zeal to further healthy blending, at home. Juicing has become more “sexy”, but isn’t it about time? Here are several ways that juicing is currently trending:
1. Shots
No, I’m not referring to the hard stuff, but a concentrated dose of everything that is good for you, all in one. “Wellness shots” or “boosters”, are often used as a natural remedies for fighting a cold or the flu. However, they can also give you a burst of energy while boosting your immune system. There are many ingredients that can be used in a shot; cayenne pepper, turmeric, lemon and ginger are common. Simply juice your ingredients, add your spice/powder to the top, throw it back!
2. Coconut
Adding coconut to juice amplifies the hydration of your drink along with adding B vitamins and minerals. You can use the fresh coconut juice found in the center of the nut, or the meat. Once you have opened the coconut, scoop out the “meat”. Then soak for 15-20 minutes in covered hot, but not boiling, water. Blend with remaining juice ingredients and enjoy.
3. Cocktail
Why limit your consumption of juice to breakfast? This juicing method may shock most people, but yes, you can have a shot of alcohol in your juice! Many trending restaurants are offering juice-based cocktails on their drink menu. “Juice-tails” or “kale-tinis” serve as a healthy alternative to traditional mixers as they are coupled with low calorie spirits, such as tequila and vodka. If you’re going to spend $10-15 on a bar drink, it might as well be healthy for you!
4. Nut Milk
Soy milk has been popular during the last few years, but alternative milk choices are taking the throne this year, and you can make your own by juicing. The key is to soak your nuts or seeds in a bowl of water overnight, (about 8-12 hours). This softens the texture to be easily juiced to a milky consistency. Soaking your nuts also makes the protein readily available for absorption, breaks down any gluten, and increases the supply of vitamins. There are many options when making your own nut milk, try a more exotic nut like macadamia, hazelnut or brazilnut.
5. Kombucha
A fermented concoction of bacteria, yeast and black tea, Kombucha can add a tangy taste to juice. It is a natural anti-inflammatory, can improve circulation, and can lower high blood pressure; just to list a few benefits. It is no wonder that it is being added to fruit and vegetable juices to equal one powerhouse.
Regardless of how extensive or exotic your drink is, the first step to successfully juicing at home is choosing the right juicer. The two leading juicer types are centrifugal, the most affordable option, and cold press, the best quality option.
When selecting a juicer consider:
- Budget
- Versatility
- Quality
- Style
Centrifugal Models
Hamilton Beach Big Mouth Juice Extractor ($49)
http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-67601A-Mouth-Extractor/dp/B00E0IBKLQ
This juicer is a good for beginners. It doesn’t extract all juice from fruits or vegetables but gets the job done. It has a powerful motor and a container to separate the pulp from the juice.
Breville BJE510XL Juice Fountain Multi-Speed 900 Watt Juicer ($194)
http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BJE510XL-Fountain-Multi-Speed-900-Watt/dp/B000QBFFU8
This juicer is not only affordable, but performs quicky. Most parts are dishwasher safe, including the large feeding chute. Although, it does take extra time to clean and juice comes out slightly foamy. For most greens, this juicer works great, but doesn’t juice more leafy greens well.
Cold-Press Models
Breville Fountain Crush Masticating Slow Juicer ($229)
This juicer is also a great starter. Unlike some juicers of its grade, this model extracts juice from kale easily. It has easy direction control and easy cleaning.
The Omega 8006 Nutrition Center ($269)
http://www.amazon.com/Omega-J8006-Nutrition-Center-Juicer/dp/B001L7OIVI
This juicer does more than juice fruits and vegetables. It can make baby food and nut milk with ease. It fully extracts vitamins, minerals and enzymes from all fruits and vegetables. Because of its low rotation speed, juice is extracted foam-free.