Are you a fan of juicing? If so, you probably understand the benefits of incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet. Juicing is an amazing way to get nutrients into your body as they are absorbed straight into your bloodstream. It gives your body a direct shot of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. However, like any health practice, there are common mistakes that can hinder the benefits of juicing. In this blog, we will explore the 7 most common juicing mistakes to avoid, helping you make the most of your juicing experience and enjoy the many health benefits it offers.
1. Not Using a Masticating Juicer
This is not necessarily a mistake, because it really is a personal choice between a centrifugal juicer or a masticating juicer. As mentioned in my post "Centrifugal juicer or masticating juicer: Which is better?", my choice clearly fell on the masticating juicer.
Investing in a cold press juicer is another way to ensure the best quality juice. Unlike centrifugal juicers, cold press juicers extract juice by pressing the produce, retaining more nutrients and enzymes. This extraction mechanism produces less heat, preserving the nutritional value of the juice. Additionally, cold press juicers also yield a higher juice quantity, ensuring you get the most out of your fruits and vegetables. Consider upgrading to a cold press juicer for better taste, quality, and health benefits.
2. Not slicing fruits thoughtfully and causing juicer jams!
Chop larger fruits and vegetables into manageable pieces (about 1-inch cubes) to avoid overloading the machine and straining the motor. Feed the ingredients slowly. Apply gentle pressure - use the provided plunger lightly to guide the ingredients. Excessive force can damage the juicer.
Slicing fruits before juicing not only facilitates the juicing process but also serves as a crucial step in ensuring the freshness and quality of the produce. By cutting into the fruit, you gain visual access to its interior, allowing you to assess its freshness and identify any signs of spoilage.
3. Not advisable to juice certain types of fruits
Avocados
Avocados have a unique, creamy texture that's not ideal for juicing. Their flesh is too thick and fibrous, leading to clogging. The fibrous nature can easily jam your juicer. Avocados are better suited for consumption in their whole form or blended into smoothies rather than being processed through a juicer.
Bananas
Similar to avocados, bananas have a soft, mushy texture that can easily clog juicers and produce a thick, pulpy juice. Additionally, their high starch content leads to a less refreshing, almost doughy-tasting juice.
4. Not washing your produce properly
Choosing organic fruits and vegetables for juicing is essential for reducing the intake of pesticide residue and harmful chemicals. By using organic or even homegrown produce, you can juice your favorite fruits and vegetables without worrying about any chemicals or pesticides getting mixed in with your delicious juice.
However, organic produce price point can cause hesitation, making it tough for everyone to access these healthier options.
Therefore, this step is absolutely crucial. I recommend washing your produce with hydrogen peroxide before juicing. As a matter of fact, even seemingly clean fruits and vegetables can harbor pesticides residue or bacteria.
5. Overloading on Sweet Fruits
One common mistake in juicing is overloading on sweet fruits in the form of fructose. While fruits are delicious and offer natural sugars, consuming too much fruit juice can lead to a large amount of sugar, which can affect blood sugar levels. It's important to be mindful of the amount of fruit juice you consume, especially if you are watching your sugar intake or managing your weight. Balancing the sweetness of fruit juice with vegetables ensures a healthier juice option.
On the flip side, not juicing enough vegetables can also be a common mistake. Green vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and broccoli, provide a wealth of health benefits. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall well-being. By incorporating green veggies into your juice, you can boost the nutritional value and enjoy the perks of a healthy juice.
Read my post on "Low Sugar Juicing Fruits and Vegetables for Diabetics."
6. Not consuming fresh juice immediately
One of the greatest benefits of juicing is the ability to enjoy fresh juice right away. Consuming juice immediately after juicing ensures the direct shot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Your body can quickly absorb these nutrients, resulting in increased energy levels and improved overall health. Fresh juice can act as a meal replacement, offering a quick and delicious way to boost your energy levels or provide a nutrient-rich beverage. Make the most of your juice by consuming it right away for the best taste and health benefits. After 15 minutes, light and air will destroy a lot of the nutrients and also all the amazing antioxidants will begin to lose their potency.
7. Storing juice improperly
When storing your juice, it's important to use the right container to preserve its nutrients. Glass containers are ideal, as they are airtight and do not leach plastic chemicals into the juice. Fill the container to the top to minimize oxidation, and consider using a dark airtight container to protect the juice from light exposure. Proper storage ensures the retention of nutritional value and extends the shelf life of your juice.
If juicing in large batch, divide your juice into individual servings and freeze them to preserve freshness and nutrients for longer. Labeling your containers with the date and type of juice helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you consume it within the recommended time frame.
Read my post on "Keep Your Juice Fresh: 7 Essential Fresh Juice Storage Tips."
Conclusion
To ensure you get the most out of your juicing routine, it's important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your health goals. By understanding the basics of juicing and the role of fruits and vegetables, you can make informed choices when selecting produce. Don't forget to vary your selection for optimal nutrition. Pre-juicing, take care to properly wash the produce to remove pesticides and chemicals. When it comes to storage and preparation, ensure your juice is stored correctly and invest in a cold press juicer for maximum benefits. Maintaining a balance between fruits and vegetables is key, so be mindful of overloading on sweet fruits and not juicing enough vegetables. Lastly, follow post-juicing practices like cleaning your juicer immediately and consuming fresh juice right away. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can promote your health and enjoy the full benefits of juicing.