Don't Forget to Juice Your Veggies

Look and feel healthier with these simple juicing tips—just be sure to leave that sugary fruit back

Don't Forget to Juice Your Veggies

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Everyone who knows me knows that I’m a juicing fanatic. In fact, my children have taken to calling the vibrant green concoctions I’m always serving them “Swamp Water.” So for any of you out there looking to live a more healthful, vitamin-fueled life—or simply recover from all those calorie-laden holiday foods—here are my favorite juicing tips.

First of all, you’ll want to invest in a quality juicer. I prefer the Vitamix because it allows you to juice up whole fruit, no peeling or seeding required. Which is also why it’s important to buy organic produce, or wash your produce with a good veggie wash, because the majority of pesticides are sprayed directly on the surface of the plants. I also suggest skipping sugary fruits—which can cause a spike in the glycemic index of the drink—and stick with strictly veggies.

Now that you’re ready to juice, start with a crisp, refreshing base of celery and cucumber, and then add a splash of coconut milk, which is great for hydrating the skin. Then you’ll want to mix in a sprinkling of deep green, vitamin-rich leafy vegetables such as spinach, Swiss chard, collard greens or kale. (Just be sure you only drink kale once a week because it’s absolutely bursting with Vitamin A.)

Sweeten with Stevia or roasted beets, or spice with just a pinch of fresh ginger, and be sure to save any proteins such as whey for right at the end to prevent the drink from getting too foamy. Pour over ice and enjoy.

Are you into juicing, let's exchange notes! Email me at hi_there@cherylstyle.com.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cheryl NajafiCheryl Najafi

Cheryl Najafi offers a fresh approach to entertaining that empowers hosts to welcome people into their homes without fret or fuss. Her celebrations are renowned for being personal, playful and unpredictable, using the interests of her guests as guiding themes. Forever offering original twists on themes, invitations, room decor, table design and place settings, Cheryl believes little tips inspire hosts to infuse their own style, humor and whimsy into any occasion. Find out more at www.cherylstyle.com, "like" me on Facebook or follow me on Twitter @CherylStyle.