The Best Foods for Skin That is Glowy and Radiant

Background Image

The Best Foods for Skin That is Glowy and Radiant

best foods for skin that is glowy

Healthy skin is a priority for most, but achieving it can be tricky. So many factors can affect the look and feel of your skin, especially your age and lifestyle. 

No matter what shape your skin is in currently, or whether you are younger or older, you can take steps to achieve healthier, more vibrant skin that looks incredible (compliments, only!) and feels soft to the touch. But first, it’s important to understand the basics of skin health and how to support it. So often we jump from wanting to improve skin to buying products laden with ingredients when a lot of what we actually want to achieve can happen naturally. Here, we discuss the best foods for skin that is healthy and glowy and all the things.

Table of contents:

What Does It Mean for Skin to Be Healthy?

Picture someone with healthy skin and visualize the details. What does their skin look like? How would it feel to touch? How would it look in harsh lighting? 

One of the baseline measures of healthy skin is that it’s mostly clear and smooth. Blemishes like acne can occur when the pores become clogged and too much oil is trapped within the skin. This oil buildup can happen for a variety of reasons, but a great skin care routine can usually balance skin oils and prevent breakouts. 

Healthy skin isn’t just smooth and clear; it also has a sense of radiance that glows from the inside out. But to achieve all the aspects of healthy skin, you have to do more than just wash your face regularly and apply SPF sunscreen. 

That radiant glow comes from a healthy body within. In order to support internal health and look and feel your best, you should incorporate the best foods for skin health into your diet regularly, prioritize sleep, minimize daily stressors, and drink plenty of water.    

What Can Affect Skin Health?

Achieving clear, radiant skin isn’t always easy, and that’s because the health of your skin can be affected by many different factors. 

If you have persistent skin issues, the first course of action should be to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist who can give you specialized advice. However, many of the causes of poor skin health are common, and being aware of them can lead you to make healthier choices for your skin.

Diet

The quality of your diet makes a bigger difference in the feel and look of your skin than you might think. In general, natural foods tend to be the best foods for skin health, while processed foods can contribute to clogged pores and a dull complexion.

Environment

The environment you live in can have a huge effect on your skin health. If you live in a city center, higher levels of pollution can cause breakouts or contribute to premature aging. Additionally, if you live in a sunny region where you’re exposed to a high UV index consistently, you might be at higher risk of sun damage.

Stress

High levels of stress can wreak havoc on your body in many ways, and this includes your skin. If you’ve had a busy few months at work or school, any recent breakouts or lack of brightness in your skin could be related to stress.

Genetics

Your genetics can also play a huge role in what your skin looks like. For example, some people rarely have blemishes on their skin, no matter their lifestyles. Conversely, some people who eat clean diets and keep up with extensive skin care routines still experience severe acne. 

If you struggle with breakouts due to unavoidable genetic factors, a dermatologist might prescribe acne medication to provide a more in-depth level of care.

Sun Exposure

sun exposure

Before you spend hours sunbathing and swimming this summer, remember the harmful effects that too much exposure to the sun can have on your skin.

The sun projects UV rays, which can cause sun spots and wrinkles to form more quickly. Sunscreen can help, but avoiding direct sun exposure whenever possible is one of the best ways to prevent premature signs of aging.

Best Foods for Skin Health: Get Healthy Skin Through Your Diet

Although many factors can support healthy skin — or make it more difficult to achieve — your diet is one of the most important. Eating a balanced and varied diet full of healthy foods can improve your health in more ways than just giving you gorgeous skin. 

The nutrients that you consume through your diet support all of your organs. However, most nutrients will go directly to supporting the organs that keep you alive. This means that the skin often receives what’s left over from the nutrients you consume.

If your diet doesn’t include enough of the right macro and micronutrients, your skin may not get the support it needs from the foods you eat. That is why eating an intentionally varied diet full of many different types of healthy food can make such a big difference in your skin’s appearance and texture. 

Are you ready to hear about the best foods for skin health and longevity? You’ll notice that many of these foods also support other internal systems, including your digestive system, immune system, brain function, and circulation. The key is to include these foods often enough that your entire body reaps the benefits, including your skin.

Foods Rich in Vitamin C

strawberries

Some of the best foods for your skin are easy to find. They contain a specific nutrient found in a huge variety of fruits and vegetables: vitamin C. This micronutrient is the common thread in a large number of skin health-supporting foods. 

Try to include some of these sources of vitamin C in your diet: 

  • Açaí 
  • Berries
  • Strawberries
  • Kiwis
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Bell Peppers

Vitamin C is one of the most common antioxidants. These compounds have the power to prevent damage caused by free radicals in the body. 

Free radical damage can often reveal itself in dull, rough, or blemished skin, which means that consuming more vitamin C and other antioxidants could help reverse this damage and support bright, supple skin.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens are also some of the best foods for skin that glows. In addition to antioxidants, leafy greens contain an abundance of healthy vitamins and minerals, including iron, folate, and vitamin A. 

Consuming leafy greens helps to promote regular cell turnover, which means that old or damaged cells are removed and replaced by new cells. 

In many cases, too many old or dead cells can contribute to dull or lackluster skin. Eating leafy greens along with exfoliating regularly can help remove these cells and give your skin that fresh, bright appearance you’re after.

Seeds and Nuts

seeds and nuts

Most nuts and seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to fewer fine lines and wrinkles when consumed regularly and paired with skin care routines. Additionally, the healthy fats found in walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds, flaxseeds, and similar foods may help shield the skin from UV damage.

Legumes

Many specific foods can be included in the category of legumes, but the most common are lentils and beans. These foods are high in zinc, which has anti-inflammatory properties. If your skin issues are caused by inflammation, adding more zinc to your diet could help relieve your symptoms. 

Salmon

Salmon combines many different skin health benefits in one tasty meal, making it one of the best foods for skin that’s radiant and soft. 

This fish is packed with antioxidants and inflammation-fighting agents, as well as healthy fats, which help protect your skin from environmental damage. Try to consume wild-caught salmon over farm-raised alternatives when possible, as wild-caught salmon tends to be richer in omega-3s.

Green Tea

Green tea can boost many aspects of your health, and skin health is just one of them. This tea is particularly high in polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that make your skin smoother, clearer, and less inflamed. 

Additionally, green tea has naturally occurring vitamin K, which can help reduce puffiness and darkness under the eyes. 

How to Incorporate the Best Foods for Skin Into Your Diet

Understanding the most helpful foods to eat for healthy skin is one thing, but how do you incorporate them into your routine? Luckily, eating healthy doesn’t need to be boring or unappetizing, especially with Clean Juice

Here are some simple (and delicious) ways to eat more health-boosting foods that support the glowing skin you’re after.

Cold-Pressed Juice

Cold-pressed juices are made with a variety of ingredients that boost skin health, including leafy greens and vitamin C-packed fruits and veggies. These convenient juices can be taken on the go and enjoyed anywhere. 

With Clean Juice, you can create your own juice cleanse to support your specific goals or choose one of our expertly crafted cleanses. While you’re on your way to reaching your skin health goals, you could also experience better digestion, more energy, a more robust immune system, and even more benefits.

Smoothies

Smoothies combine the micronutrient benefits of cold-pressed juice with the macronutrient richness of a satiating meal. Some of our Clean Juice smoothies are even filling enough to replace meals without sacrificing any satisfaction. 

When you blend up a tasty mix of the best foods for skin health, you can support a smoother, brighter complexion while providing all of your internal systems with the nutrients they need. What could be more convenient than that? 

Açaí Bowls

Açaí is a nutrient-rich berry that happens to be a great source of vitamin C, one of the most important compounds for radiant skin. With an açaí bowl, you can have all the benefits of açaí while enjoying a sorbet-like consistency topped with all kinds of tasty, health-boosting toppings. 

Our açaí bowls at Clean Juice feature toppings like bananas, strawberries, nuts, and seeds, which add a satisfying crunch to the smoothness of the blended açaí base. You might feel like you’re eating a bowl of frozen yogurt, yet you’ll feel amazing afterward, and your body will thank you for all the essential nutrients. 

Salads

Blending your health-boosting superfoods into juices, smoothies, and bowls can be tasty and fun, but what about when you’re craving a good old-fashioned salad? 

Start with a base of leafy greens and add a variety of toppings, such as nuts, seeds, a protein source, and a dressing made with omega 3-packed olive oil. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to a completely nutrient-dense and delicious meal that will support gorgeous skin (as well as many other markers of good health).   

More Ways to Support Healthy Skin

Adding the best foods for skin health into your diet is an effective way to look and feel your best. To support the changes you’re making, don’t forget to practice these other beneficial habits to create healthier, softer skin.

Drink Lots of Water

Water is essential for all bodily functions, clear skin included. Up your water intake to support blemish-free, smoother skin.

Get Plenty of Sleep

A good night’s sleep allows your body to fully reset between busy days. If you get only five or six hours of sleep each night, you might notice that your skin looks puffy and discolored. Getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night can help you look fresh and well-rested.

Cut Back on Tobacco and Alcohol

Regular tobacco and alcohol consumption are widely linked to many markers of poor health, including premature skin aging. Cut back on these habits to support younger-looking skin.

Create a Skin Care Routine

Your skin is unique, so your skin care routine should be unique too. Find a routine that works for you and includes some combination of face washing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. And don’t forget the SPF sunscreen!

Find the Best Foods for Skin Health at Clean Juice

Where can you find the best foods for skin that’s healthy and beautiful? At Clean Juice, making healthy eating easy and delicious is our primary mission. All of our offerings are fully customizable to your goals, from our juice cleanses to our smoothies, bowls, and more. 

Are you ready to get started on your wellness journey with Clean Juice? Find your nearest location today to order. 

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications. 

 

The 12 Proven Strategies to Improve Gut Health

Background Image

The 12 Proven Strategies to Improve Gut Health

the important of gut health

What does it truly mean to be healthy? So many different systems in your body work together to affect your overall well-being. When one aspect of your physical health is lacking, you can experience serious disruptions to your quality of life and even feel the effects throughout the rest of your body. 

Gut health is one important aspect of health that many people, even the health-conscious, don’t know enough about. Your gut affects more bodily functions than you might realize, which is why maintaining positive gut health is so crucial.

Table of contents:

Understanding Your Gut Health

Your gut includes all of the organs involved in your digestive tract, and “gut health” specifically refers to the delicate balance of bacteria that live inside these organs. 

Gut health is also referred to as your gut microbiome. It contributes to many aspects of health, including digestion, immune responses, and mental well-being. 

Some of your gut bacteria were present when you were born, but some bacteria develop throughout your life based on your environment and diet. 

Most people assume that all bacteria are harmful, but in fact, there are many types of bacteria in your gut that support good health. A healthy gut should maintain a proper balance of good and bad bacteria at all times. If your gut has too much of one type of bacteria, you can experience the symptoms that come along with poor gut health.

Symptoms of Poor Gut Health

How can you tell if you have poor gut health? There are a few common symptoms to look out for.

Digestive Issues

Since your gut microbiome is within your digestive system, an unbalanced gut will naturally cause issues with your digestion. This could look like:

  • Bloating
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Changes in stool

When the gut microbiome doesn’t have the proper balance of bacteria, other parts of your digestive system can struggle, and you can experience these unpleasant symptoms. 

Sudden Weight Changes

Sometimes, poor gut health can lead to sudden and unexpected changes in weight. Usually, this will take the form of weight loss, but weight gain can also occur depending on other health issues present at the time. If digestive issues accompany a sudden weight change, the problem may be connected to your gut microbiome.

Poor Immune Response

Did you know that your digestive system and your immune system are very closely linked? If your gut microbiome lacks certain bacteria or has too many of another, your body may be unequipped to fight infections. Getting sick more often than usual could be a sign that your gut health needs some attention.

Poor Mental Health

Mental health primarily takes place in the brain, where neurotransmitters create feelings of happiness and contentment. However, some of these neurotransmitters (including well-known examples like serotonin) also come from the gut.

The emotional effects of poor mental health are usually created by a lack of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine. This lack can create feelings of discontent or sadness. When your gut health is out of balance, your emotional and mental well-being can be affected.

What Can Damage Your Gut Health?

Before diving into the many ways to boost gut health, it’s important to understand the lifestyle factors that can damage your gut microbiome.

Poor Diet

Many of the bacteria in your gut grow throughout your life based on what you eat, which is why a poor diet can make such a big difference in your gut health. 

Different foods will affect people in diverse ways, as everyone’s gut microbiome is unique. However, some of the most common foods associated with gut health issues are:

  • Meat
  • Fried food
  • Artificial flavors and sweeteners
  • Sugar

Most foods are okay in moderation, but if you over consume any of these potentially problematic foods, you may notice symptoms of poor gut health.

Stress

Stress can negatively affect so many different aspects of your health, and gut health is no exception. If you experience high levels of stress regularly, your gut health could be affected, leading to digestive issues and other symptoms.

Alcohol

Most people know that alcohol isn’t healthy for them, but regularly drinking alcohol can cause specific issues in the gut. Repeated consumption has been linked to gastritis, or inflammation in the stomach lining. Gastritis can cause unwanted symptoms like heartburn, bacterial infections, and stomach ulcers.

Antibiotics and Other Medications

how antibiotics affect gut health

Antibiotics are a useful medication that can effectively fight a variety of illnesses. However, the nature of antibiotics is to kill bacteria and other pathogens in the body, which can lead to your gut bacteria being damaged along with the bacterial infection you’re trying to remove.  

Many other medications can cause gut health issues besides antibiotics. Even medications as common as ibuprofen can damage your gut if used consistently. However, you should never stop taking a prescribed medication without consulting with your doctor.

12 Ways to Improve Gut Health

Now that you understand what can cause gut health issues and how to spot poor gut health, take a look at the top 12 ways to boost your gut health and feel your best. By implementing these healthy habits, you can improve your gut microbiome — and other health markers along the way.

1. Add Fermented Food to Your Diet

Fermented foods are very common in some cultures and less common in others. If you’re not sure whether you regularly eat any fermented foods, it’s probably a good idea to consume more of them. 

Some common examples of fermented foods to include in your diet are Greek yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha, and kimchi. These foods help increase the diversity of bacteria in your gut microbiome, which allows your healthy bacteria to grow and thrive.

2. Take Probiotics

probiotics and your gut

Have you heard the buzz about probiotics? Probiotics are microorganisms that can help to balance the gut microbiome. Essentially, adding probiotics to your body means adding more good bacteria to your gut.

Ask your doctor whether you need to supplement your diet with probiotics based on your current diet and gut health. Many doctors recommend that patients take probiotics alongside antibiotics to reduce the damage done to the gut microbiome. 

3. Keep Micronutrient Consumption High

A balanced diet is made up of macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are protein, carbohydrates, and fats, and maintaining the proper balance of these is important for meeting your nutritional needs. However, consuming all of the necessary micronutrients is also crucial to staying healthy and supporting a thriving gut microbiome. 

Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals, which occur naturally in a variety of foods. In order to increase your micronutrient consumption, try to include more fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. A cold-pressed juice or smoothie is an easy and delicious way to do just that!

4. Reduce Your Stress Levels

Stress can wreak havoc on many of your body’s systems, your gut included. 

While switching up your diet should be your first line of defense against an unhealthy gut microbiome, reducing stress can also make a huge difference in how you feel and how well your digestive system functions. 

Try to incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine, take on fewer projects at work, or spend more quality time with loved ones. When you have less stress and fewer responsibilities to worry about, you might find that it’s a lot easier to make better food choices for your gut health.

5. Change Your Cleaning Products

Your gut health can be affected by your environment just as it is by your diet and stress levels, and this includes the products you use to clean your home. 

Specifically, toxic chemicals found in many major cleaning products can disrupt the gut microbiome. Switch out some of your name-brand cleaning products for nontoxic alternatives, or do some research to find out how you can use everyday household products as effective cleaning tools. 

6. Avoid Sugary and Fatty Foods

How Sugar affects the microbiome

Everyone loves a dessert once in a while, but eating too many foods that are excessively high in sugar and fat can affect your digestion and create an imbalance in your gut. Save these foods for special occasions and practice moderation when you do consume them.

7. Cut Back on Artificial Flavors and Sweeteners

Too much sugar can be harmful to your gut microbiome, and too much artificial sweetener can do the same. Most artificial sweeteners include problematic chemical compounds like aspartame to create a sweet taste without any calories. Many artificial flavors do the same to achieve a desired flavor, adding unnecessary chemicals to your food. 

Take a closer look at the ingredients list of any artificial sweeteners and flavorings. If the list is long and full of chemicals, you may want to cut back. Some naturally occurring zero-calorie sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit can be safe in moderation but may still cause digestive upset in some people.

8. Try a Vegetarian Diet

Of all the foods that are linked with gut issues, meat is one of the most prominent. Meat is an excellent source of protein, and including meat in your diet can make reaching your nutrition goals easier. However, meats like beef, chicken, and pork are directly linked to gut inflammation and inflammatory bowel disease.  

If you’re having gut issues, try switching to a vegetarian diet for a few weeks to see whether your symptoms improve. If you need to include animal protein in your diet, seafood options like fish and shrimp tend to be better for your gut than poultry or red meat. 

9. Remove High FODMAP Foods

If you have irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, cutting high FODMAP foods out of your diet can help relieve your symptoms. The acronym FODMAP stands for:

  • Fermentable oligosaccharides
  • Disaccharides
  • Monosaccharides
  • Polyols

A low FODMAP diet should not include dairy, wheat, legumes, and certain fruits and vegetables. Over several weeks, you can add one type of food back to your diet at a time to determine whether it is the cause of your digestive distress.

10. Limit Alcohol

Alcohol does not create any positive effects on the gut. While small amounts of alcohol might be harmless for those without significant gut issues, regular servings of alcohol can cause serious inflammation to the digestive system. That’s why avoiding it when possible is the best plan of action for gut health.

11. Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is your body’s chance to fully rest, reset, and get ready for the day ahead. If you don’t get enough sleep, you can experience a range of problems, poor gut health and digestion difficulties included. Eating too close to bedtime can cause digestive issues, too, as your digestion slows down during sleep. 

The right amount of sleep will vary based on age, lifestyle, and other factors. Chat with your doctor to find out how much sleep you should be getting to support your health. Once you have a sleep schedule laid out, organize your mealtimes so that you won’t be eating a large meal too close to bedtime. 

12. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is good for your health in general, but some early studies are showing a connection between aerobic exercise and gut microbiome diversity, independent of diet. Additionally, exercise can help with weight management, and those with a healthy body fat percentage are more likely to reap the benefits of exercise for gut health.  

Boost Your Health From the Inside Out With Clean Juice

A healthy gut starts with smart choices — about your diet, exercise routine, stress levels, and overall lifestyle. Of all the factors that can improve gut health, taking artificial flavors out of your diet and increasing your intake of whole foods are some of the most practical and worthwhile ways to improve your gut health for good. 

At Clean Juice, we make healthy eating easy and tasty with a varied menu of cold-pressed juices, smoothies, bowls, sandwiches, and much more. Find your nearest Clean Juice to get started on your journey to better gut health today!

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

 

A Nutritional Showdown: Juicing vs. Blending

Background Image

A Nutritional Showdown: Juicing vs. Blending

When it comes to juicing vs. blending, our team at Clean Juice believes that both sides are winners.

If you’re passionate about wellness, you know that there are many ways to consume nutritious foods in order to boost your overall health. For people who are always on the go and love a convenient way to get their daily nutrients in, juices and smoothies are popular options.

You’ve probably heard of juicing and blending before, but have you ever taken a deep dive into the differences between the two? Though juices and smoothies often include many of the same ingredients, the method of creating these beverages can produce very different results.

One of the most important steps to creating your perfect healthy lifestyle is to educate yourself. That way, you can make informed decisions about your health. Read on to learn more about juicing vs. blending and why you might choose one or the other — or both — for your wellness routine.

Table of contents:

  • What Is Juicing?
  •  What Is Blending?
  • Juicing vs. Blending: Is One Healthier Than the Other?
  • How to Choose Between Juicing vs. Blending
  • How to Include Smoothies in Your Wellness Routine
  • How to Include Juice in Your Wellness Routine
  • Try a Juice Cleanse
  • Making a Healthy Diet Easy with Clean Juice

What Is Juicing?

Read on to learn more about juicing vs. blending

Juicing is the process of converting whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, roots, and seeds, into liquid form. Some juices are made with a single fruit or vegetable, while others are made from multiple ingredients for flavor, nutritional value, and consistency.

Juice can be created in multiple ways, but two of the most common today are the centrifugal juicer and the cold press juicer. The centrifugal juicer turns whole foods into liquids using a fast-moving blade, which essentially chops up the foods until they are extremely fine. The cold press juicer squeezes the foods down until they are crushed before separating the pulp. This step ensures that the finished product is smooth and easy to drink.

At Clean Juice, all our juices are created using the cold press method. Since the fruits and vegetables are never heated with the cold press juicer like they are with the centrifugal juicer, they can maintain a more complex nutrient profile. This method also allows us to extract as much juice as possible from our fruits and vegetables.

Common Juicing Myths

One of the most popular myths surrounding juicing is the idea that juices have less fiber than smoothies. The truth is that the juicing process removes the insoluble fiber present in fruit and vegetable skin. In doing so, though, it leaves soluble fiber intact, which is much more easily digestible.

Another common myth regarding juicing vs. blending is that juice has more sugar than smoothies. As long as both beverages are made with the same ingredients, one won’t have a higher sugar content than the other.

Benefits of Juicing

Juicing at home or ordering in is an easy way to get your daily servings of fruits and vegetables in. So many juice combinations can be both nutritious and delicious, and including juice in your diet regularly is a convenient way to boost your health.

Drawbacks of Juicing

Depending on the juicing method you prefer, home juicers can be relatively expensive. And though fruit and vegetable juice is known to be nutrient-dense, it shouldn’t be used as a meal replacement due to the low-calorie count. The only exception to this is if you’re drinking juices for a short-term cleanse.

What Is Blending

Another common myth regarding juicing vs. blending is that juice has more sugar than smoothies.

Blending is a method of liquifying fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients that create smoothies. In the blender, multiple small, sharp blades move quickly to pulverize the foods inside. While this process is somewhat similar to how the centrifugal juicer works, the blender doesn’t diminish the volume of the ingredients quite as much, which results in a thicker consistency.

The blending process does not release as much of the fruit or vegetable’s water content as juicing. As a result, you’ll typically need to add water, milk, juice, or another pure liquid into the blender to create your desired thickness. Most smoothies contain a wide array of ingredients for flavor as well as nutritional value.

Common Blending Myths

A common misconception about smoothies and blended drinks is that they are full of added sugars. Unfortunately, many of the top smoothie chains do add sugary ingredients like sherbet, ice cream, sweetened yogurt, or even flavored syrups to make their products as tasty as possible.

This means that you don’t get the maximum nutritional benefits from ingredients like fruits or vegetables. They are likely overshadowed by the high sugar and calorie content of the drink.

In truth, smoothies can be as healthy (or as unhealthy) as you make them. That’s why you should opt to prepare smoothies at home or order them from health-conscious brands like Clean Juice. This way, you’ll know exactly what is in the list of ingredients so you can make informed choices about your health.

Benefits of Blending

When it comes to juicing vs. blending, it’s much more common to have a blender at home than it is a juicer, which makes smoothies more easily accessible than fresh juice. Another bonus of smoothies is you can use frozen ingredients and still get the great taste and texture you’re looking for, while the juicing process typically requires fresh ingredients.

Blending is a very quick process that can yield several servings of a tasty, nutritious beverage in minutes. You can also add so much more to your smoothie than just fruits and vegetables, including all kinds of health-boosting, nutritious ingredients like:

  • Protein powder
  • Chia seeds
  • Maca powder
  • Spirulina
  • And so many more

This is why a nutrient-dense smoothie can be safely used as a meal replacement. And good news – we offer all of these nutritious ingredients as add-ins to your smoothies at Clean Juice! Find your nearest location here.

Drawbacks of Blending

Since blended drinks typically have more ingredients than juices, it can be tricky to get the recipe exactly right. If you add too much of one ingredient or too little of another, you may end up with an unpleasant consistency or strange flavor.

And it’s important to remember that the insoluble fiber of the fruits and vegetables is still fully present in your smoothie. While having more fiber isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it may cause bloating or gut issues for those with sensitive digestive systems.

Juicing vs. Blending: Is One Healthier Than the Other?

Everyone has their preferences when it comes to taste, texture, and convenience in the juicing vs. blending debate. However, is one superior to the other in terms of health?

This is a complex question, as everyone’s health markers and wellness habits will look different. That said, in simple terms, there is no inherently healthier option when comparing juicing vs. blending. How “healthy” a juice or smoothie is will depend on how it’s made, what ingredients are used, and how your body reacts to those ingredients.

Once you realize that juicing vs. blending can be equally useful in your wellness journey, you can start to incorporate both into your routine, depending on your preferences and goals. The healthiest diets tend to be those that incorporate a huge variety of foods, which means there is plenty of room for both juices and smoothies.

How to Choose Between Juicing vs. Blending

Deciding which method to use can be tricky, especially when you’re considering details like nutritional value, convenience, and satiety. Both juicing vs. blending can be equally healthy, but you may choose one over the other depending on your specific needs.

Let’s take a look at two different situations and consider whether juicing vs. blending might be the better choice.

Juicing vs. Blending for Meal Replacement

Sometimes, you simply don’t have time to cook an entire meal full of the nutrient-dense ingredients you crave, especially during a busy workday. This is when drinking a smoothie to replace one of your meals can be extremely convenient.

Juices are full of micronutrients like vitamins and minerals, but they tend to lack essential macronutrients like protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats. These are some of the most important nutrients to include in your meals in order to feel full, energized, and ready to take on the day.

To make your smoothie filling enough to replace a meal, try adding ingredients like yogurt, protein powder, nut butter, or chia seeds. You’ll be amazed at how satisfying a smoothie can be when you’re in a rush and need something nutritious on the go.

Juicing vs. Blending for Supplementing Nutrients

What if you’re already in the habit of preparing healthy meals for yourself but simply need to fill in some nutritional gaps? This can happen when you focus too much on the macronutrients in your meal and forget about the micronutrients.

We need so many different vitamins and minerals in our bodies every day, and getting them all in through breakfast, lunch, and dinner can be a challenge. This is where juice can come in handy.

If you include one or two fruit and vegetable juices in your day, you can double or even triple the number of micronutrients you’re consuming without too many extra calories. And since juice is made up of mostly water, more juice each day means more hydration. This could in turn mean better energy, clearer skin, smoother digestion, and many other positive effects.

How to Include Smoothies in Your Wellness Routine

Smoothies have so many incredible health benefits. If you’re interested in including smoothies in your daily routine, there are many easy ways to do so.

Try replacing one meal every few days with a nutrient-dense smoothie. The best time to do this is during a busy day when you don’t have the time to cook. Smoothies can be an especially beneficial option if you’re on a weight loss journey or are simply looking to clean up your diet. You’ll find that they can make for a satisfying and relatively low-calorie meal that you can enjoy anywhere.

Keep in mind, too, that you can adjust your smoothie recipe to increase your intake of any nutrients you’re lacking elsewhere. For example, if you’re having trouble getting enough protein each day, try adding a scoop of protein powder or some Greek yogurt to your smoothie. This works for both macronutrients and micronutrients, depending on your goals and what items you have on hand.

Rather have Clean Juice blend up fan-favorite protein smoothies for you? We have a wide array of delicious options like “The Recovery One” or the “The Chocolate One” with your choice of hemp or whey protein. Explore all our protein smoothies here!

How to Include Juice in Your Wellness Routine

there is no inherently healthier option when comparing juicing vs. blending.

Juice is a tasty, refreshing way to increase your nutrient intake and boost your overall wellness. Juices are much less dense than smoothies, which means they are easier to consume as a beverage with meals or in between meals rather than as a meal replacement.

Starting your day with fresh juice is a great way to jumpstart your hydration and nutrient consumption. This is an especially helpful strategy if you don’t typically eat breakfast or aren’t usually hungry in the morning. Beginning the day with fresh juice packed with fruits and vegetables will get you well on your way to consuming your essential nutrients before you’ve even had a meal.

Try a Juice Cleanse

Another popular way to incorporate juices into a healthy diet is through juice cleanses. A juice cleanse is a special diet that incorporates different types of juices either in place of or in addition to meals. There are numerous kinds of cleanses to choose from that allow you to focus on different goals, including energy, weight loss, debloating, and more.

Since juices are not adequate replacements for meals in the long term, our Clean Juice cleanses can last anywhere from a few days to a single day. After your juice cleanse, your body will feel refreshed and energized. This is a great way to get your digestion back on track after a vacation or simply reset your eating habits to include more nutrient-dense foods.

Making a Healthy Diet Easy With Clean Juice

When it comes to juicing vs. blending, our team at Clean Juice believes that both sides are winners. Including more fresh juice in your wellness routine is a great way to boost your health, consume more nutrients, and feel great. The same goes for smoothies, which can make it easy to pack in all the essential macro- and micronutrients to keep you satisfied between meals.

We make it easy to incorporate both juices and smoothies into your diet, as well as other healthy favorites like açaí bowls, sandwiches, and more. Find your nearest Clean Juice to get started today.

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications. If you’re unsure whether a cleanse would be a healthy choice for you, ask your doctor.

Empowering Your Hormones: How to Increase Testosterone Naturally Through Your Diet

Background Image

Empowering Your Hormones: How to Increase Testosterone Naturally Through Your Diet 

Are you wondering how to increase testosterone in your body? Read on.

Many different internal processes are involved in your health, and your hormones affect nearly all of them. Hormonal health is key to feeling your best every day. However, since there are so many types of hormones, figuring out how to balance them can be tricky.

One of the most significant hormones to keep track of is testosterone. Though testosterone is present in both women and men, this hormone plays an especially important role in men’s health.

Did you know that eating healthy can dramatically impact hormones in your body – including testosterone? One place to start is visiting your local Clean Juice, the first and only USDA-certified organic juice and food bar. Find your nearest Clean Juice here!

Table of contents:

What Is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a hormone that is related to many different bodily functions. In men, this hormone is primarily produced in the testicles. In women, testosterone is made in small amounts in the ovaries.

This hormone starts to take center stage at puberty, when it supports the development of secondary sex characteristics in men. The increase in testosterone contributes to growth spurts, the deepening of the voice, and the development of body hair.

After puberty, testosterone continues to play an important role in men’s health. While women can maintain good health with low levels of testosterone, low levels of this hormone in men have been linked to a variety of health issues.

Testosterone levels will naturally decrease with age, but problems can arise if they decrease more than is normal.

Why Testosterone Is Important

First, it’s important to understand why testosterone matters and what it does to keep your body functioning normally.

You may not have considered the role that testosterone plays in your overall health and your day-to-day experiences. Healthy testosterone levels are crucial to sexual and reproductive health, especially for men. However, this hormone is key to many other bodily functions as well, such as: 

Bone Strength

Figuring out how to increase testosterone naturally is the best way to go.

In order to keep your bones strong and firm, your body constantly breaks down bone tissue and rebuilds it. Testosterone and other hormones significantly affect the different types of bone cells involved in this process.

Therefore, a healthy testosterone level generally means that this bone remodeling process is proceeding normally. This means a lower risk of broken bones and a reduced chance of developing osteoporosis, which is one of the most common health issues linked to low testosterone.

Heart Health

A balanced level of natural testosterone helps to keep the heart healthy. Research has linked low testosterone to an increased risk of heart disease.

As men get older, their testosterone levels naturally decrease, which happens concurrently with an increase in the risk of heart problems. The link between testosterone and heart health may be related to a decline in the function and health of the arteries, which can cause them to become clogged.

Reproductive Health

While testosterone plays a role in many other areas, it is most closely associated with sexual and reproductive health.

When testosterone is at a good level, it supports a healthy sex drive and normal sexual function. Low testosterone can cause a lower libido. It may also contribute to related issues like erectile dysfunction and low sperm count.

Muscle Tone and Strength

There are many reasons why people like to maintain muscular physiques, but one of the most significant is that having strength makes everyday tasks easier. Also, stronger muscles help support your bones and joints as you age, reducing the likelihood of developing mobility issues.

Higher testosterone makes it easier to maintain and increase muscle size and strength. This supports longevity by keeping you strong, mobile, and active well into your older years.

Can You Supplement Testosterone?

If you’re wondering how to increase testosterone, you might start by focusing on natural ways to encourage your body to produce more of this hormone on its own…starting with a healthy diet. However, it’s important to note that some people with low testosterone may be prescribed testosterone therapy to keep their levels in a normal range.

Testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, can have a variety of positive health effects, especially for those who have been experiencing the symptoms of low testosterone.

Some of these include:

  • Higher sex drive
  • Stronger bones
  • Mood stabilization
  • Increased muscle mass

Testosterone can become more difficult to naturally increase the older you get, which is why TRT is more often recommended for men over 60 who need to boost their testosterone levels for their overall health. For many older men, this treatment can be very effective and improve their quality of life.

However, supplementing testosterone can potentially have some negative effects. This is especially true if you supplement your testosterone levels unnecessarily.

Some men choose to artificially increase their testosterone levels even though these levels are normal. Testosterone levels that are too high could trick your body into naturally producing less, as your body receives signals that you already have enough for normal functions.

The longer your body receives these signals, the less testosterone you will produce naturally. This process could lead to becoming completely dependent on supplements.

Figuring out how to increase testosterone naturally is the best way to go. Unless your doctor finds that TRT is medically necessary, try teaching your body to increase your testosterone levels on its own. You may find that you’re able to reduce the symptoms of low testosterone without experiencing the potential downsides of TRT.

Testosterone vs. Estrogen: How Are They Different?

efore learning how to increase testosterone, you have to make sure that boosting this hormone will help relieve your symptoms.

Testosterone is a very important hormone when it comes to sexual function and overall health. But its counterpart, estrogen, is equally important.

Like testosterone, estrogen is present and necessary in both males and females. However, estrogen plays a much more significant role in women when it comes to developing secondary sex characteristics at puberty, having a regular menstrual cycle, getting pregnant, giving birth, and so much more.

Just as some men can experience dangerously low testosterone as they age, some women start to experience low estrogen over time. Estrogen can be supplemented through hormone replacement therapy, but it can also be naturally increased through many of the same activities that boost testosterone.

Signs of Low Testosterone

Not sure how to tell if you have low testosterone? Before learning how to increase testosterone, you have to make sure that boosting this hormone will help relieve your symptoms.

Many of the signs of low testosterone can be caused by other health issues. A physician can order tests to find out the root cause of your concerns. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor if you notice the following signs of low testosterone:

Insomnia

Low levels of testosterone have been linked to insomnia. As testosterone decreases, the stress hormone cortisol tends to increase. The more cortisol you have circulating in your body, the more difficult it will be to sleep, as cortisol creates feelings of alertness.

Unfortunately, this situation can become cyclical. As low levels of testosterone make it harder to get quality sleep, the lack of proper rest can make your testosterone levels dip even further.

More Body Fat

Testosterone is directly related to muscle mass, which means higher levels of testosterone make it easier to maintain a more muscular physique with low levels of body fat. If your testosterone levels are dropping, you may notice an increase in body fat and a decrease in muscle mass.

Low Sex Drive and Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

One of the most common symptoms of low testosterone is a decrease in sex drive. Depending on other health factors, this symptom can develop along with erectile dysfunction and similar issues.

Hair Loss

Testosterone itself isn’t directly related to your hair health. However, testosterone interacts with the hormone DHT, which determines whether you will experience hair loss and at what rate. By keeping testosterone levels balanced, you can help keep your DHT levels in a healthy zone and slow down or even prevent hair loss.

Can Testosterone Be Too High?

While low testosterone levels can cause a variety of health issues, it can also be dangerous for testosterone to be too high. Men with excessive testosterone can experience muscular damage to the heart, low sperm count, liver disease, high blood pressure, and other unwanted symptoms.

It’s very rare for men to experience excessively high testosterone levels naturally. Usually, this occurs when an individual without the need for TRT supplements their testosterone artificially.

How to Increase Testosterone Naturally Using Testosterone-Boosting Foods

Figuring out how to increase testosterone can be challenging. Since testosterone levels naturally decrease as you age, it’s normal for this hormone to drop to a certain degree. Many of the changes that come along with decreased testosterone are simply considered to be normal signs of aging.

However, just because decreased testosterone is a normal part of aging doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it. Getting enough sleep and exercising regularly are two of the most important actions you can take as you’re learning how to increase testosterone.

In addition to these, make sure you’re filling your diet with testosterone-boosting foods.

While you’re learning how to increase testosterone, you should pay attention to what you eat. Consider these top examples of testosterone-boosting foods that could help keep your hormones balanced, improving your everyday life as well as your longevity. If you’re still unsure which foods to eat, check out Clean Juice’s offerings and place your order today!

Lemon

Lemon has the power to naturally reduce cortisol, the stress hormone that can cause insomnia and subsequently decrease your testosterone levels. Lemons are also high in vitamin A, which aids in the production of testosterone.

Egg

Now that you know about testosterone-boosting foods and how to increase testosterone naturally, you can incorporate them into your diet.

Did you know that your testosterone levels are directly related to your cholesterol? When you keep your cholesterol high enough, your testosterone tends to be more abundant too. Eggs, particularly egg yolks, are a great source of good cholesterol and may help increase your testosterone levels.

Garlic

Much like lemon, garlic has cortisol-fighting properties that help to keep your stress low and your testosterone high. In general, the testosterone-boosting properties in garlic are more potent when it’s eaten uncooked.

Kale

Kale and other leafy greens are rich in many vitamins and minerals, but one of the most significant is magnesium. This mineral is known to help the body produce more testosterone naturally. Other magnesium-rich foods include lentils, beans, seeds, nuts, and whole grains.

Avocado

Avocados have many nutrients in common with leafy greens like kale, including testosterone-boosting magnesium. However, avocados are also high in boron. This mineral has been linked to increased testosterone production, though more research is needed to confirm the effects of boron in your diet. Try ordering our Loaded Avocado Toast. It will keep you full for a long time, too!

Berries

Berries are full of nutrients known as flavonoids, which are also present in foods like chocolate and wine. One of the top flavonoids found in many types of berries is quercetin, which is connected to increased testosterone production. 

Honey

Aside from being one of the most delicious sweeteners, honey is rich in boron, much like avocados. Honey also contains high levels of nitric oxide, which helps to support blood flow and healthy sexual function. Looking for a dose of honey right now? Perhaps after that HIIT workout you just finished. Might we suggest ordering “The Recovery One?

What Foods Should I Avoid to Keep Testosterone High?

Now that you know about testosterone-boosting foods and how to increase testosterone naturally, it’s important to know which foods to avoid if you want to keep your hormones balanced.

Many of the foods you should avoid to maintain healthy testosterone levels are generally unhealthy foods that can affect your longevity in multiple ways. They include heavily processed foods, alcohol, and prepackaged foods high in sodium, sugar, or artificial flavors. If you do eat these foods, make sure to enjoy them in moderation.

To increase your testosterone in a guilt-free way, choose the healthy-yet-delicious juices from Clean Juice!

Boost Your Hormone Health the Natural Way With Clean Juice

Learning how to increase testosterone can feel overwhelming, but keep in mind that many of the best testosterone-boosting foods are also great for other aspects of your health. This means that by supporting this essential hormone, you can also support better energy, easier weight management, better mental health, and a better quality of life overall.

Ready to begin your journey to higher testosterone through a healthy and delicious diet? At Clean Juice, we’ve got everything you need, from smoothies to juices to sandwiches and more. Find your nearest Clean Juice today to get started!

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

 

The Scary Good Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Background Image

The Scary Good Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Take a closer look at some of the health benefits of pumpkin, its history, and how you can include it in your daily routine.

What comes to mind when you think of pumpkins? For many people, images of jack-o-lanterns, pumpkin pies, and pumpkin spice lattes might fill their minds. (Eeek, we can’t wait until that first fall leaf hits the ground!) However, there is much more to this unique food than just its fall-flavored treats or its use as a holiday decoration for your front stoop.

While some might consider pumpkin to be a vegetable, pumpkin is technically a fruit. We know some people will find that pretty surprising. In fact, it’s considered to be a winter squash in the fruit family known as Cucurbitaceae, which also includes melons and cucumbers. Aside from their relevance in the fall months, pumpkins offer numerous health benefits when incorporated into your diet. With the right sources, you can enjoy these advantages throughout the year.

But we get it — changing up your diet to include more nutritious foods can be challenging. That’s why we make it easy at Clean Juice with fresh smoothies, cold-pressed juices, bowls, and so much more delivered right to your door. Find your nearest Clean Juice and place your order today to get some more superfoods in your life! This is your sign to do so.

Back to pumpkin. Never considered it to be a superfood? After you finish this read, you might think otherwise. Let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits of pumpkin, its history, and how you can include it in your daily routine.

Table of contents:

The Historical Significance of Pumpkin

Pumpkins and other similar squash were considered to be staples in the Native American diet.

According to scientists, pumpkin likely originated as early as 7000 B.C. in North America. Some of the oldest known seeds were found in Mexico and likely date back to that early era.

Pumpkins and other similar squash were considered to be staples in the Native American diet. In fact, we know today that many Native American communities used specific planting techniques using the fertile soil alongside rivers to grow the healthiest, juiciest squash.

While pumpkin has been a part of many North American diets historically as well as today, one of the most significant uses of the fruit doesn’t involve eating it at all. The tradition of carving jack-o-lanterns began in Ireland, where people would carve faces into other foods such as turnips or potatoes.

Once they realized that pumpkins were much easier to carve because of their hollow interior, jack-o-lanterns carved into pumpkins became far more common. This tradition is based on the myth of Stingy Jack, a trickster who loves to play pranks. Over time, this practice became closely linked with the celebration of Halloween, an ancient Celtic holiday that has spread worldwide for many generations since its inception. Make sure to use this interesting fact at your next holiday get-together!

Aside from its close link to Halloween, pumpkin is a very popular flavor for a variety of dishes and delicacies during the autumn season. Pumpkin pie is considered to be a staple of many Thanksgiving celebrations, and a lot of people enjoy this dessert on Christmas Day as well. (Definitely Team Pumpkin Pie over here at Clean Juice, although Pecan comes in as a close second.)

Additionally, the popularity of the pumpkin spice latte can’t be overstated. This decadent twist on the classic latte includes sweetened pumpkin syrup and a variety of spices like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. At this point, nearly every major coffee chain offers its unique take on the pumpkin spice latte when autumn rolls around. We are sure you have seen a meme or two about pumpkin spice while scrolling through social media. And if you’re wanting to stay on trend, might we suggest our “The Pumpkin One with Cold Brew.” It’s essentially an organic PSL in smoothie form and for all those that think fall drinks come too early, here’s your solution! A refreshing, cold version without all of the added artificial sweeteners and processed sugar. A PSL option that is good for you.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin may be delicious, but what can it do for your health? Here are a few of the top health benefits of pumpkin and why this superfood should be a staple in your diet.

Supports a Healthy Heart

Pumpkins are rich in many nutrients, but one of the most plentiful is potassium. This mineral, in particular, is known to help keep blood pressure regulated when you consume it each day. Additionally, pumpkin also contains other heart-healthy nutrients, including antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.

Aids in Weight Loss

If you’re currently on a weight loss journey, don’t automatically assume that your favorite pumpkin-flavored foods and drinks will be off the table. This fruit is usually associated with decadent treats like pie, muffins, and lattes, which all contain added sugar. However, without the added ingredients, pumpkin itself is very low in calories.

As long as you take in the health benefits of pumpkin the smart way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of fall without compromising your weight loss goal. We recommend our pumpkin bowls, smoothies, and other offerings at Clean Juice when it comes to enjoying pumpkin the healthy way. Don’t worry — the delicious taste you crave will still be present and accounted for but without the processed sugar and additives.

May Reduce Bladder Symptoms

Ongoing research indicates that the consumption of pumpkin seeds may help alleviate or reduce urinary frequency, sudden urges, and nocturia. Additionally, the fruit is sometimes used to help with bladder irritation and to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.

Helps Improve Eyesight

Of the many nutrients present in pumpkin, one of the most prominent is beta-carotene.

Of the many nutrients present in pumpkin, one of the most prominent is beta-carotene. This antioxidant gets turned into vitamin A by your body through natural processes, which is an essential vitamin for many bodily functions.

Vitamin A is extremely important for proper eyesight. That’s why consuming pumpkin could be linked to better vision. Vitamin A helps to support cornea and retina health. Additionally, pumpkin also contains vitamin C, which can reduce your likelihood of developing cataracts later in life.

May Reduce Cancer Risk

The vitamin A present in pumpkins may help support healthy eyesight, but this vitamin is also known for other benefits. In fact, vitamin A is known as a cancer-fighting compound and can help reduce your risk for multiple types of cancer, including lung cancer and prostate cancer.

Another cancer-fighting element of pumpkin is the presence of carotenoids, which is an antioxidant that can help to prevent a variety of diseases. Carotenoids are linked to reduced risk of throat, stomach, pancreatic, and breast cancers.

Supports Smooth Digestion

When it comes to a healthy digestive tract, dietary fiber is one of the most essential compounds you can include in your diet. Pumpkin is known for its high levels of dietary fiber per serving, making it a great way to support healthy digestion. Just one cup of cooked pulp contains a whopping seven grams of fiber, which can help support regular bowel movements, reduce bloating, and balance the microbiome in the gut.

Other Ways to Use the Health Benefits of Pumpkin

When it comes to the health benefits of pumpkin in your diet, the list can go on and on. However, did you know that you can use pumpkins to benefit your health in other ways?

The fruit actually makes a highly effective ingredient in many skin care products. Additionally, pumpkins can be beneficial beyond just the pulp or the seeds. There are a variety of ways to use the entire fruit and truly make the most of this superfood.

Pumpkin Skin Care

Pumpkin actually makes a highly effective ingredient in many skin care products.

From the pulp to the seeds, pumpkin is packed with nutrients such as vitamins, magnesium, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and more. Consuming these nutrients can be very beneficial for your overall health, but when they are present in skin care products, they can be particularly helpful for the health of your skin.

Skin care products that include pumpkin in their ingredients are known to support anti-aging, reverse damage from UV rays, and treat breakouts. In fact, some of the properties present in pumpkin might even help to reduce the appearance of acne scarring. If you’re looking for a new way to revitalize your skin care routine, look for pumpkin on the label of your next product!

Using the Whole Pumpkin

The health benefits of pumpkin can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, whether you purchase pumpkin puree in a can, order a fresh smoothie or refresher from Clean Juice, or try out a pumpkin-based skin care product. If you choose to purchase a whole pumpkin, however, make sure you put every part to use with these helpful tips.

You can use the pulp in all kinds of tasty recipes, from healthy baked goods to soups. Separate the seeds and roast them with olive oil and seasonings for a tasty, protein-rich snack. If you want to grow your own pumpkins, you can save some seeds to plant in late summer.

Once you’ve removed all the pulp and seeds from your pumpkin, you’ll be left with the rind. While this part of the pumpkin doesn’t have much flavor, it makes a perfect snack for the wildlife in your area! Leave pieces of the pumpkin rind near the back of your yard or a nearby forested area to help keep your local wildlife healthy and fed.

All About Pumpkin: Taste, Texture, and Ways to Enjoy

Many of the nutrients and health benefits of pumpkin are located within the pulp.

There are two major parts of the pumpkin that can be consumed: the pulp and the seeds. The pulp makes up the inside of the the fruit, and it’s what most people think of when they think of the classic pumpkin taste. The flavor is similar to sweet potato but with notes of nuttiness and sweetness.

Pumpkin pulp is used for pies and other desserts, as well as stews, chilis, curries, and more. Additionally, many of the nutrients and health benefits of pumpkin are located within the pulp. The pulp is rarely consumed raw, but when you use it in its whole form in a recipe, it tends to have a similar texture to cooked squash: crunchy and firm on the outside and soft and slightly mushy on the inside.

Pumpkin seeds also contain many health-boosting nutrients. The most popular way to prepare the seeds is to roast them with oil and seasonings, which gives them a pleasant crunchy texture and savory flavor. Pumpkin seeds are a convenient, healthy snack that you can prepare at home with just a few easy steps.

At Clean Juice, we recognize the incredible health benefits of pumpkin and its unique addition to the flavor palate of many dishes. That’s why we’ve incorporated pumpkin into a variety of our smoothies, salads, and bowls to make them extra nutritious and delicious!

There’s nothing more refreshing than a smoothie, especially during the hot summer months. Our smoothie, The Pumpkin One, includes pumpkin, banana, and almond milk blended with vanilla and pumpkin pie spice, making it the perfect way to satisfy your pumpkin pie craving any time of year. For a little more caffeine, try “The Pumpkin One with Cold Brew.” It’s an extra tasty pick-me-up and the combination of coffee and pumpkin can’t be beat!

If you want something lighter than a smoothie but just as refreshing, the Apple Cider One is a popular refresher on our menu that features all the best fall flavors. This tasty beverage is a mixture of apple juice, banana, cinnamon, and maple syrup.

Our açaí bowls pack a nutritious and flavorful punch. If you love the taste of fall, our pumpkin açaí bowls are the perfect way to enjoy them with your health in mind.
The Apple Crisp Bowl is made with an apple juice base blended with banana, almond butter, vanilla, date paste, and cinnamon. Then, it’s topped with sliced apple, granola, cinnamon, and a drizzle of your choice. The Fall Bowl also has a pumpkin base, but instead of apple juice, the pumpkin is blended with banana. This bowl is topped with banana, granola, pumpkin seeds, and your choice of drizzle.

Craving something more savory? The Autumn Bowl is sure to satisfy. It begins with a spring mix base topped with pumpkin seeds, apple slices, feta, walnuts, and pumpkin hummus. Our Apple Pie Toast may be more sweet than savory, but it packs a crunchy texture very different from our other offerings. Once you choose your favorite bread, we add almond butter, apple, cacao nibs, honey, and cinnamon.

Ready to explore all of our pumpkin drinks, bowls, eats, and everything else on the Clean Juice menu? Find your nearest Clean Juice and place your order today!

Include the Health Benefits of Pumpkin in Your Routine With Clean Juice

With Clean Juice, you don’t have to wait until Thanksgiving to enjoy your favorite fall flavors. Our varied menu of pumpkin-based goodies makes it easy to take full advantage of the health benefits of this fruit with none of the added sugar or artificial ingredients. Find your nearest Clean Juice today to get started on your delicious health journey!

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

If you’re unsure whether pumpkin would be a healthy addition to your wellness routine, ask your doctor if any of your health details might make pumpkin unsafe for you.

 

Pour More! Pure Maple Syrup Is Surprisingly Good for the Body

Background Image

Pour More! Pure Maple Syrup Is Surprisingly Good for the Body

 

pure maple syrup

For many people, pure maple syrup brings back happy memories of enjoying pancakes or waffles drenched with the sweet stuff as kids. However, if you maintain a healthy diet and devour it in its simplest form, maple syrup doesn’t just have to be a thing of the past. Did you know that this popular sweetener actually has several important health benefits?   

Before diving into the positive health effects pure maple syrup can offer those who prioritize a healthy diet and lifestyle, let’s take a closer look at the history of this sweet substance and how it came to be.

Table of contents:

What Is Pure Maple Syrup? A Brief History

pure maple syrup

Pure Maple syrup is a thick, sweet liquid made from the sap of maple trees. Though maple syrup is commonly used around North America today, the vast majority of the continent’s bottled maple syrup sold in stores is harvested from Canada (specifically from the province of Quebec).

How Was Pure Maple Syrup First Used?

The Iroquois people were the first to use maple syrup. They are a Native American tribe indigenous to the northeastern region of America. They discovered that they could tap maple trees for their sap and that the sap could be congealed into a sweet consumable syrup. 

Maple trees accumulate high levels of starch in their trunks and roots, which makes it easy for the tree’s sap to convert to sugar. 

Maple sap is usually collected to make syrup during the spring when the sugar within the tree’s trunk and roots has risen up and is mixed with water within the tree to create the sticky texture we usually associate with tree sap.

How is Pure Maple Syrup Made?

Professional maple sap collectors tap maple trees for their sap in a similar but slightly more efficient way than the Iroquois people did thousands of years ago. Once the maple sap is collected, it is processed to remove the water content so that only the thick, concentrated syrup is left. 

The sap has to be carefully heated at a specific temperature to remove the majority of the water content without compromising the taste or texture of the finished product. After the water has been removed, the syrup is heated to a specific temperature and density to ensure that it has the desired color, flavor, and consistency. Since maple syrup is a naturally occurring substance, the process shouldn’t involve the addition of any extra sweeteners, chemicals, or preservatives. 

Grading System for Pure Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is separated into different categories based on color and flavor.The grade system for maple syrup was developed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the early 20th century, with input from the maple syrup industry. The original system, which was introduced in the 1920s, included four grades based on color and flavor.

Over time, the system was revised and expanded, and in 2015, the USDA introduced a new grading system that simplified the previous system.

Grade A Golden syrup is the lightest color and most subtle flavor, and these characteristics are based on when the sap was collected during the season. 

The next category is Grade A Amber syrup, which has a slightly sweeter and richer flavor along with a darker color to the syrup. 

Next comes Grade A Dark syrup, which is a few shades darker than amber syrup and has an even more robust flavor profile. While lighter grades of syrup can have hints of other flavors, such as vanilla, dark syrup has a definite maple flavor. 

The final grade is Grade A Very Dark syrup, which is true to its name with a dark color, intense flavor, and strong sweetness. This grade is the most common type of maple syrup used in cooking, and most table syrup used on food items is of the dark or very dark variety.

Pure Maple Syrup Taste and Texture

Though the specific flavors of maple syrup can vary slightly based on the grade, there is a general flavor profile, no matter the color. 

Maple syrup is known for its strong maple flavor, its sweetness, and its thick and sticky texture, which is slightly thinner than molasses. When mixed into liquids or recipes, maple syrup tends to blend into the texture of the other substances present while still providing a strong sweetness and maple flavor. People have likened the taste to a mixture of vanilla, caramel, and prune.

What Can I Use Pure Maple Syrup For?

Though you may have used maple syrup as a topper for a few specific dishes, there is a huge variety of ways to use maple syrup and enjoy its health benefits as well as its delicious taste.

Breakfast Foods

As you can probably guess, maple syrup is most commonly used for breakfast foods like pancakes and waffles. Want to enjoy your favorite childhood breakfast while still supporting a healthy diet? Make your pancakes and waffles with whole grains and top them with lots of healthy fruits in addition to some of your favorite maple syrup! 

Another great way to increase the health value of your delicious breakfast is by adding some protein powder to your pancake or waffle recipe. This way, you can still enjoy the tastes and textures you love while making sure that your meal is as healthy and satiating as possible.

Smoothies

Everyone loves a good smoothie from time to time, but smoothies can actually be a great regular part of an overall healthy diet when made with the right ingredients. Toss a bunch of your favorite fruits into a blender along with some leafy greens, and add a small amount of maple syrup to sweeten. 

You’ll love the taste of your smoothie and can feel good about the health benefits of your sweetener of choice.

Beverage Sweetener

Many people opt for low-calorie or calorie-free artificial sweeteners for beverages like coffee and tea in order to reduce the amount of sugar they include in their diet. However, these sweeteners can pose health problems for some people, especially when consumed in excess. 

Adding a few drops of maple syrup to your coffee or tea can help to sweeten it naturally while adding a delicious maple flavor.

Baking Ingredient

pure maple syrup

If you’re a health-conscious person, you may be hesitant to bake your favorite treats too often, as baked goods tend to contain high levels of sugar and saturated fats. 

With maple syrup, however, you can not only sweeten your baked goods naturally, but you can also add less sweetener without sacrificing taste when you use darker-grade maple syrups with robust flavor. 

There are many other ways to healthify your baked goods in addition to using maple syrup, such as sweetening with ripe bananas or dates, using sugar-free chocolate chips, or adding protein powder to your recipe for extra nutritional value.

Best Superfoods to Pair With Maple Syrup

Superfoods are food items considered to be particularly nutrient-dense, making them an important part of a healthy diet. Here are some delicious and nutritious superfoods that could pair well with maple syrup for a healthy and tasty snack.

Berries

Berries like raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries are packed with vitamins and minerals as well as antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and prevent disease. 

Though berries are already a sweet snack, a light drizzle of maple syrup creates a healthy and decadent dessert that’s low in calories and free of refined sugars.

Yogurt

In addition to health-boosting compounds like protein and potassium, yogurt contains probiotics, which help support good gut health. Additionally, it makes a thick and creamy base for a healthy snack or dessert and mixes well with maple syrup’s sweet flavor. Add some berries or nuts on top to make a well-rounded, healthy treat!

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts like almonds, brazil nuts, and walnuts, as well as seeds like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds, are more than a crunchy, delicious snack — they are packed with protein, antioxidants, and other health-improving compounds. 

Turn this savory snack into a sweet one by drizzling some maple syrup onto your trail mix or even soaking it in maple syrup overnight to create a sweet, hardened coating.

Ginger, Cinnamon, and Turmeric

Though ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric each have their own distinct health benefits, they are often combined in powder form for smoothies, acai bowls, teas, and other foods and beverages to combine their health benefits into one. 

Lattes using some combination of these three superfood powders are all the rage, and a few drops of maple syrup can help to add some natural sweetener while increasing the health benefits of your tasty beverage.

Sweet Potato

Most people think of the holiday season when they think of sweet potatoes, but this nutrient-packed root vegetable can (and should) be enjoyed throughout the year. 

Want to include more sweet potato in your diet but don’t love the flavor? Contrary to popular belief, sweet potato doesn’t have to be served in a savory setting. Add some maple syrup to your recipe, and make your sweet potato dish even sweeter and more delicious for a unique and healthy treat!

Pure Maple Syrup Health Benefits

Now that you’ve learned a bit more about pure maple syrup and how it can be used to sweeten your diet without compromising your health, let’s take a closer look at the distinct health benefits of this delicious product.

Lower Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels can put people at risk for multiple negative health outcomes, including chronic pain, heart disease, strokes, and gallstones. According to some promising animal studies, maple syrup may have cholesterol-lowering effects as well as the ability to help prevent liver inflammation.

Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants are naturally-occurring substances found in the body, as well as several food types that help remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals are damaging agents created by internal oxidation, and antioxidants help to prevent oxidation from occurring when consumed regularly. 

When it comes to boosting your antioxidant levels through food, the best things to eat would be berries, avocado, nuts, leafy greens, and many other superfoods. However, some studies suggest that maple syrup may have substantial amounts of antioxidants. 

Darker maple syrups, such as dark or very dark grades, likely have higher antioxidant levels than lighter grades.

Boosted Brain Health

Though the research on maple syrup’s effect on brain health is still in the early stages, some promising findings suggest maple syrup’s ability to help prevent the clumping of certain proteins within brain cells. 

These protein clumps are directly linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, which means maple syrup could help lower your risk of developing such conditions.

Packed with Health-Boosting Minerals

Maple syrup is a naturally occurring substance packed with various healthy minerals, including manganese, zinc, calcium, and potassium. These minerals can have disease-fighting properties and help strengthen your immune system, metabolize carbs and fats more effectively, and regulate your blood sugar.

Better for Digestion than Artificial Sweeteners

Though artificial sweetener options for beverages and baked goods can help save calories, they can cause bloating and other gut issues for some people, especially when consumed regularly. Artificial sweeteners provide no nutritional benefits and can actually disrupt the digestive system in some cases. Some studies have shown that artificial sweeteners can alter the gut microbiome, which can lead to digestive issues and even contribute to the development of metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Maple syrup on the other hand contains natural sugars, as well as trace amounts of vitamins and minerals that can help support digestive health. For example, maple syrup contains zinc, which can help boost the immune system and aid in the digestion of carbohydrates. It also contains manganese, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and support bone health. Since maple syrup is a natural sweetener, it is unlikely to cause any gut issues, especially since its strong flavor and sweetness make it easy to use sparingly.

Are There Any Health Risks From Maple Syrup

Though maple syrup has several health-boosting properties, you should still moderate how much you consume. 

Since pure maple syrup has very high levels of naturally-occurring sugar, it is a high-calorie food at around 13 calories per tablespoon, which means that those watching their calorie intake should be wary of how much maple syrup they use on a daily basis. 

Similarly, maple syrup has a high sugar content without any fiber, and this can cause large blood sugar and insulin swings, making it dangerous for diabetics. If you are diabetic, ask your doctor if maple syrup is safe for you to consume. 

Foods that are high in any type of sugar, whether naturally occurring or refined, can cause tooth decay, especially if regular dental health maintenance isn’t kept up. Be wary of how much maple syrup and other sugary foods you consume, as they can cause cavities. Also, make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day to prevent tooth decay.

How to Properly Store Maple Syrup

Maple syrup can remain usable for roughly one year after opening as long as it’s stored correctly. The best place to keep it is in the refrigerator since it does not contain any preservatives and can grow mold if left at room temperature.

Boost Your Health the Delicious Way with Clean Juice

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. In fact, it can and should be delicious and enjoyable! Want to make a healthy diet just as convenient as it is tasty? Place your order today with Clean Juice and have your favorite healthy foods and beverages shipped to your door.

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications. 

If you’re unsure whether maple syrup would be a healthy addition to your wellness routine, ask your doctor if any of your health details might make maple syrup unsafe for you.

Hidden Celery Juice Benefits That You Need to Know

Background Image

Hidden Celery Juice Benefits That You Need to Know

The foods and beverages you consume play such an important role in your health, whether it’s physical, mental, or even spiritual. An unhealthy diet can do more than just increase your risk for early aging and disease in the future; it can prevent you from living a happy, balanced life day to day and make simple tasks more difficult. 

If you’re invested in your own health and wellness, you’re likely to always be on the lookout for the latest research about different types of food and the specific benefits they can have. 

In that case, you’ll be very interested to learn more about celery juice benefits and celery in general, one of the trendiest superfoods available today that many people have reported generating incredible health benefits.

Table of Contents: 

celery juice benefits

You may be wondering, how did the common vegetable I used to snack on with peanut butter become such a powerhouse in the wellness space? Over the past several years, the unique nutritional benefits of celery juice have been heavily studied by experts in the field, marking short-term as well as long-term health effects within their research. 

It’s important to note that a huge advantage of celery juice is its accessibility. Unlike some vegetables, celery is relatively inexpensive to purchase at any grocery store and can easily be juiced in a home juicer or purchased from pressed juice brands for your convenience. It’s a very aromatic vegetable, which belongs to the Apiaceae family in the plant kingdom, a flowering plant family oddly enough that is grown in marshland. Carrots, parsley, anise, dill, fennel, and more also are lumped into this classification. Apiaceae are usually characterized by hollow stems and flat tap clusters of flowers which you’ve probably noticed on your celery if you are opting for the organic kind in the grocery.

 

The Role of Celery in Health History

Celery has been a mainstay in cultures all around the world for millennia. In fact, the leaves and stalks of celery have been noted in conjunction with kings and warriors of the past, including King Tutankhamun of Egypt and the horses of Troy’s gladiators in the Iliad by Homer.

Celery has always been known as one of the most inexpensive and accessible vegetables, being found in stews, sauces, and other dishes made by people from all walks of life throughout history. 

It is packed with a wide variety of vitamins and minerals that support energy and vitality in day-to-day life as well as help to prevent future illness. 

In the late 20th century, celery was commodified by the diet industry due to each stalk being very low in calories, making it a good snack for someone watching their food intake.  Low calories are just one of of celery juice benefits—there are many more that we will go into more detail.

However, the celery juice movement has served to move this incredible superfood forward from a position in the weight loss space into an important role in overall health and well-being.

 

Is Celery Considered a Superfood?

celery is a superfood

Due to increasing research around celery and celery juice, many nutritional experts consider celery to be a superfood. Like many superfoods, celery packs a nutrient-dense punch and offers a long list of both short and long-term health benefits despite being a common, everyday food item. 

Never heard of a superfood? This term is used to describe foods that should be prioritized in an everyday diet for their density of healthy components and varied nutrient profile. 

Many of the specific nutrients looked for in superfoods include fiber, antioxidants, and fatty acids, which are all closely linked to good health and longevity. Other superfoods include avocados, leafy greens, berries, and cinnamon.

 

Juicing vs. Eating Celery: Which Is More Beneficial?

celery juice vs eating raw

Though most American families eat celery as a snack with spreads like peanut butter or hummus or include chopped-up celery in stews or even Thanksgiving stuffing, many cultures all over the world use celery stalks as well as leaves for a variety of unique dishes. 

Though celery juice is far from a brand-new concept, its rise to national popularity in the past several years has been significant. If you’ve been passionate about health and wellness for a long time but have only just heard about the many benefits of celery juice, you’re not alone. 

One of the primary advantages of juicing vs. eating celery is the fact that the juicing process removes the pulp, which contains most of the vegetable’s fiber. 

Many nutritional experts believe that this step in the process boosts the physical healing effects of celery as well as allows people to consume much more celery in a single sitting than they could by eating it. 

Celery juice is also known to strengthen bile in a way that whole celery can’t, which is a crucial part of a healthy digestive system and the proper breakdown of fats in your body. Additionally, healthy bile is an important part of eliminating waste and toxins from your system, keeping your digestion smooth, and your liver free of excess toxic substances. 

If you don’t have a juicer or don’t have access to fresh-pressed celery juice, eating celery whole can also have many health benefits. 

However, if juicing is an option for you, the addition of celery juice to your daily routine can create a huge difference in your daily energy levels as well as provide plenty of vitamins and minerals to keep your body strong and vital.

 

Health Benefits of Celery Juice

Ready to learn a bit more about the specific health benefits that a celery juice cleanse can offer you? Many of these benefits are in line with the typical benefits of superfoods, further cementing the idea that celery juice is considered to have a place among well-known superfoods like avocado and berries.

Packed with Antioxidants

If you’ve been conscious of health and wellness for a long time, you’ve most likely heard of antioxidants and perhaps already prioritized them in your daily meals. 

Antioxidants are natural chemical compounds that are known to protect the cells against harmful free radicals, which damage all types of cells and promote aging symptoms as well as increase your risk of disease. 

Antioxidants can be found in a variety of specific vitamins and minerals, and celery juice is reported to contain a whopping 12 distinct antioxidants within each stalk that’s juiced to make your glass.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and discomfort. In fact, inflammation has been directly linked to illnesses such as osteoporosis and arthritis, which drastically affect mobility and quality of life. 

Every celery stalk in your glass of celery juice contributes around 25 chemical compounds that help your body respond to inflammation, promoting better mobility in both the short and long term.

Improves Digestion

When your digestive tract is out of working order, this issue can bleed into various aspects of your physical and mental well-being. Poor digestion and gut issues can lead to bloating, constipation, nausea, and even mood instability, depression, and anxiety. 

Celery juice contains compounds called polysaccharides, which have been revealed to significantly decrease stomach ulcers, support stomach lining health, and improve the efficiency of the digestive system. Additionally, celery’s high water content also improves the digestive process through hydration.

Great Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Getting enough micronutrients throughout the day is crucial to maintaining good health and feeling satisfied with your meals. Each glass of celery juice is packed with a long list of necessary vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins K, C, and A, folate, and potassium. Additionally, celery juice’s low glycemic index won’t spike your blood sugar.

 

Skin Benefits of Celery Juice

Aside from the general health benefits of celery juice, this superfood also has many positive effects specific to the skin.

Clears Skin

Celery juice has been known to improve the look and feel of skin, including getting rid of blemishes and even reducing the appearance of acne scars. Additionally, celery juice’s high water content helps to keep the skin hydrated, which supports good skin texture as well as healthy oil levels.

Stimulates Hair Growth

The antioxidants presented in celery juice help to protect the blood vessels in the scalp from free radical damage, which can prevent hair loss and even stimulate increased hair growth. The vitamins found in celery juice, particularly Vitamin K, are also helpful for healthy hair follicles and maintaining strong, shiny hair strands.

 

Mental Benefits of Celery Juice

Mental health makes up a significant portion of your overall wellness. Luckily, the physical benefits of celery juice are also balanced by significant mental benefits that can help to improve quality of life.

Helps to Stabilize Mood

Mood swings and mental health concerns can be exacerbated by a lack of nutrition or inflammation within the body, and the neutralizing effect of celery juice can help to keep your body nourished and, therefore, keep your mood more stable throughout the day. 

Though celery juice is not a replacement for medication, it can work as a powerful supplement to medical treatment for mental health.

Reduces Memory Loss

Studies have shown that regular celery juice consumption can help to slow the progression of memory loss. A regular celery juice habit can help you to support cognitive health and prevent the development of similar ailments in the future.

 

How to Get the Most out of Your Celery Juice Cleanse

If you’re interested in improving your overall wellness with a celery juice cleanse, you should understand the best ways to go about it in order to feel the full effects. Let’s take a look at some of the details you should keep in mind when adding your celery juice cleanse into the structure of your day-to-day life.

 

Is Celery Juice Safe to Drink Every Day?

Celery juice is absolutely safe to drink every day. In fact, the best way to enjoy maximum benefits from your celery juice consumption is to start each day with around 16 ounces of fresh celery juice. 

If you’ve been drinking celery juice for a while and would like to see increased benefits, you can up your daily consumption to anywhere between 24 and 32 ounces spread out throughout the day. Organic celery juice is best, but if you don’t have access to organic celery, just make sure to thoroughly wash your celery before juicing.

 

Can I Drink Celery Juice on an Empty Stomach?

Celery juice should be consumed on an empty stomach for best results. If the taste of pure celery juice is too intense for you at first, you can cut it with a small amount of apple or cucumber to neutralize the taste. However, try to increase your ratio of celery to other ingredients in your juice each day to eventually become accustomed to the taste of pure celery juice.

 

Are There Any Side Effects?

During a celery juice cleanse, some people report a change in their digestion, particularly in their bowel movements. 

Though you may experience loose stools early on in your celery juice consumption, your body will adapt to the change over time. Eventually, you should experience even smoother and healthier digestion than you did previously.

 

How to Choose the Best Celery While Grocery Shopping

Picking the best produce in your grocery store can go a long way in ensuring you get most out of celery juice benefits. When purchasing celery, look for bright green leaves with no brown spots or yellowing, which indicates that the celery is on the older side. The stalks should be bright green and firm. If the stalks begin to shrivel at the top, turn yellow or brown, or feel soft, move on to another bunch.

 

How Should Celery Juice Be Stored?

how should celery juice be stored

Whether you purchase bottled celery juice or juice the celery yourself, your celery juice should be stored in the refrigerator at all times and be used within a few days of purchase for optimal freshness. 

Too much exposure to light or heat can reduce the nutritional value of celery, and refrigeration is actually known to slow down the nutrient loss process significantly. 

If you freeze your whole celery, it could cause the vegetable to wilt, affecting the taste and texture of your juice. 

More Ways to Store Celery

The absolute best way to store celery is whole, wrapped in foil, in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This ensures that the celery loses as little moisture as possible. Foil is ideal (over plastic or other materials) because it keeps moisture in while still letting the ethylene gas the celery naturally emits to escape. This ethylene gas will cause the celery to wilt more quickly if it becomes trapped. 

If the stalks are already cut, no worries. The best method of storing cut celery is in a sealed glass container submerged in water. This keeps the stalks fresh and moist until you are ready to eat or juice them.

 

Grow Your Own Celery in 5 Easy Steps

Many people choose to fuel their juicing habit with home-grown vegetables directly from their own garden, and growing your own celery is an incredibly easy way for budding gardeners to get started! Not only will you have access to the freshest celery you can possibly find, but you’ll learn a new hobby. Getting started is simple. All you need is a bunch of organic celery from the grocery store. To start growing your own celery, follow these 5 easy steps:

Step 1: Cut Off the Roots

Grab a large bunch of organic celery from the store (using the tips above). When you’re ready to use it for cooking, making a snack, or juicing cut off the bottom 2” and set it aside. This is the part you likely wouldn’t be eating anyway

Step 2: Add Water & Sunlight

Take a wide and shallow bowl with room temperature water and place the base of the stalk so that the bottom half is submerged and the top half is above the surface. Use toothpicks to stabilize the celery in the bowl if necessary. Place the bowl near a sunny windowsill or somewhere with ample sunlight during the day.

Step 3: Let It Grow!

After about 5 to 7 days, the plant will begin to regenerate. The miracle of nature! The small yellow leaves in the center of the base will grow and turn a dark green color. The outer stalks may dry out or turn brown, but this is perfectly normal! Make sure to change out the water every few days to maintain freshness. Note:  if you leave the celery in water for too long, the outer stalk will begin to rot. So be sure to move on to the next step to ensure your new celery plant continues to thrive!

Step 4: Plant Your Celery

After about a week, take the newly grown celery stalk out of the bowl. It’s now ready to be planted in soil! A flower pot on your porch, a small raised garden bed, or a lovely little celery patch will work nicely. Be sure to keep the soil around your new plant moist but not too wet.

Step 5: Congratulations, You’re a Gardener!

After a few months, your celery will be ready for harvest. You can start the process over again, or even plant multiple stalks in intervals so you have fresh celery all the time. Having fresh celery to juice lets you get the most out of the many celery juice benefits! As a bonus, if you have kids at home this can be a very fun and enlightening activity for them to learn about nature and healthy eating. Celery for the win!

 

Give Your Health a Boost with Clean Juice

If you regularly include whole celery in your diet as a healthy snack or flavorful addition to a larger dish, you should keep up this beneficial habit. However, if you want to see even more significant benefits from your celery consumption, consider trying a celery juice cleanse. 

Starting your morning with celery juice will help you to feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on everything that’s in store for the day. 

Additionally, you can improve your mobility and physical comfort with reduced swelling, get rid of bloating with massively improved gut health, and prevent disease in the future with powerful anti-aging properties. 

Clean Juice offers several ways to introduce celery into your daily diet. Whether you go through one of our juice cleanses that include our ‘Green Juice’ option or just want to grab a refreshing ‘The Celery One’ loaded with celery and lemon, we have many convenient opportunities for you to reap the benefits of juiced celery. 

Ready to learn more about the power of a celery juice cleanse? At Clean Juice, we offer multiple organic juice cleanses designed to suit your specific needs and desired result. 

Order now!

 

  • Packed with Antioxidants
  • Reduces Inflammation
  • Improves Digestion
  • Great Source of Vitamins and Minerals
  • Clears Skin
  • Stimulates Hair Growth
  • Helps to Stabilize Mood
  • Reduces Memory Loss

BONUS: Try juicing!

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

The Relationship Between Weight Loss and Juice Cleansing

Background Image

The Relationship Between Weight Loss and Juice Cleansing

Juice cleanses have become quite popular in recent years. Though this natural detoxification method has been around for decades, more health-conscious individuals are learning about the benefits of juice cleansing for your health.

While juice cleanses can create a variety of health benefits, one common side effect of a juice cleanse is weight loss. This can lead some people to use a juice cleanse for health support during a weight loss journey or even rely on one to achieve their desired results.

Before we can explore the juice cleanse weight loss similarities and how they interact, it’s important to understand what a juice cleanse is.

Table of contents:

What Is a Juice Cleanse?

A juice cleanse is a temporary diet plan that includes fruit and vegetable juices as a replacement for some or all meals. Juice cleanse plans can range from a single day to several days, and the goal of the cleanse will depend on the specific juices being used and whether any solid food is consumed.

The most important aim of any juice cleanse is to flush toxins from the body. A juice cleanse gives your digestive system a break from your typical eating routine and increases your micronutrient intake. However, some cleanses are designed for specific results, such as providing immune system support, reducing inflammation, and increasing your energy levels.

At Clean Juice, we make better health accessible to our community with six expertly crafted juice cleanses. Are you unsure where to start with your juice cleanse journey? Check out our cleanse club at Clean Juice.

Common Juice Cleanse Weight Loss Connections

For many people who try a juice cleanse, weight loss is one of their primary goals. The juice cleanse weight loss that you might experience could help with your long-term health efforts. Let’s take a look at a few of the similarities that tie a juice cleanse, weight loss, and better health together.

Intentional Restriction

When you’re on a weight loss plan, intentionally reducing your caloric intake is an important part of seeing results. If you drop your calories too low, however, it could cause adverse health effects in both the short and long term. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional health coach or nutritionist to find the right calorie count for weight loss without negative effects.

Juice cleanses create a calorie deficit since the vast majority of juices are much lower in calories than a typical meal. This is why juice cleanse weight loss is a normal result for multiple-day cleanses.

Loss of Water Weight

 The juice cleanse weight loss that you might experience could help with your long-term health efforts.

During weight loss, the first set of pounds you lose will be caused by the loss of water weight. This happens in the early phases of weight loss when calories are reduced and water consumption is high. The more water you drink, the less your body will feel the need to retain. As you go along on your weight loss plan with reduced calories over time, the pounds dropping on the scale will start to reflect fat loss.

The majority of juice cleanse weight loss is simply water weight, as a juice cleanse keeps you very hydrated and low on calories. Juice cleanses aren’t meant to be done long-term, which means they aren’t an effective way to lose fat.

Focus on Nutrients

Even when you’re in a calorie deficit, you should still be making sure that you get all the proper nutrients. This includes the macronutrients of protein, carbs, and fat, as well as all your vitamins and minerals.

When you’re on a juice cleanse, nutrients are a major focus. Even though you will likely experience some juice cleanse weight loss, you won’t be deficient in any essential minerals or vitamins. In fact, you may be consuming more than you do in your typical diet.

Natural Detox Process

Your juice cleanse weight loss will help you rid your body of any built-up toxins, returning it to a sense of homeostasis. This process is especially effective for the gut and digestive system, as you will probably experience less bloating and other gut issues during and after a cleanse.

In a weight loss protocol, you will likely be replacing many processed, fried, or greasy foods with healthier alternatives, which can have a similar detoxing effect on the gut. This is why juice cleanse weight loss can come along with other positive results like reduced bloating, clearer skin, and increased energy.

Short-Term Juice Cleanse Effects

Since juice cleanses should only be done in the short term, they mostly create short-term effects. However, the results of juice cleanses can be significant, even after only a few days.

Other than juice cleanse weight loss, some of the positive effects of cleanses include the following:

  • More energy
  • Reduced bloating
  • Clearer skin
  • Fewer cravings 

Are you interested in seeing what a juice cleanse could do for you? Learn more about our organic juice cleanses at Clean Juice and begin your journey to better health today. 

Is Juice Cleanse Weight Loss Sustainable?

Juice cleanse weight loss is a normal and expected part of any cleanse that lasts more than a day or two.

Juice cleanse weight loss is a normal and expected part of any cleanse that lasts more than a day or two. However, if you want to lose weight and keep it off in the long term, the results you’re after will come with slightly reduced calories, regular exercise, and stress management over time.

Since a juice cleanse can help you reduce bloating, shed water weight, and kick cravings, it might be an effective way to get your weight loss journey started. Just make sure you also have a long-term diet and exercise plan to get you to your goal in a healthy and sustainable way. Additionally, make sure you consult a health professional before juice cleansing or attempting weight loss.

Detox Your Body and Boost Your Health with Clean Juice Cleanses

No matter what your ultimate health goal might be, a juice cleanse is a great way to refresh your diet, get rid of toxins, and feel your best. Contact us today to find your nearest Clean Juice and get started.

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

If you’re unsure whether a cleanse would be a healthy choice for you, ask your doctor.

From Smoothies to Snacks: Harnessing the Mighty Benefits of Blueberries

Background Image

From Smoothies to Snacks: Harnessing the Mighty Benefits of Blueberries

The benefits of blueberries are vast.

Keeping up a balanced diet is one of the best ways to live a healthy lifestyle. The more nutritious foods you include in your daily life, the more distinct benefits you can see from these foods and how they support your vitality.

Many people think of healthy foods as less tasty than their unhealthy counterparts. For example, when it comes to flavor, most people would choose a cheeseburger over a head of broccoli.

However, the distinction between healthy and tasty isn’t always true. In fact, some of the most delicious, naturally occurring foods are chock-full of nutrients and could even be considered “superfoods.”

Blueberries are an excellent example of this. These berries are packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals, and including them in your diet can have many significant health benefits.

On top of that, their sweet and slightly tangy flavor makes them easy to enjoy in a smoothie, acai bowl, fruit salad, or all by themselves. The benefits of blueberries are truly endless, and this superfood is readily available in juice shops and supermarkets all over the country.

Curious about all the delicious possibilities and benefits of blueberries? Support your health and enjoy a delicious treat at the same time with smoothies and bowls featuring blueberries from Clean Juice.

Table of contents:

A Brief Overview of Blueberries

Blueberries are often considered to be a superfood for their high nutrient content, but that doesn’t mean they are an exotic food. Most people have tried blueberries at one time or another, whether having them fresh in a bowl of fruit, baked into a pastry, or sprinkled on top of a smoothie bowl.

Blueberries first became a popular crop in the U.S. in the late 1800s. What started as small plants cultivated on family farms became a nationwide sensation in the early 20th century.

While the first commercial sale of a blueberry crop occurred in 1916, the “blueberry boom” didn’t occur until the 1940s. From then on, blueberries continued to rise in popularity until the present day. Now, they’re considered to be a staple at any grocery store or farmer’s market.

Throughout the early 2000s and beyond, more studies have been conducted by nutrition scientists to determine the exact benefits of eating blueberries. As more studies have occurred, more positive health changes have been observed in people who regularly include this superfood in their diet.

What Is the Historical Significance of Blueberries?

The benefits of blueberries are truly endless

Before American farmers discovered the blueberry crop and fostered it on their own land, blueberries were used and enjoyed by a variety of Native American tribes.

Not only did Native Americans enjoy the benefits of blueberries, but they also utilized blueberries for medicinal needs. Additionally, they used blueberry juice to flavor other foods.

Today, blueberry bushes can thrive in many different locations. A total of 26 U.S. states grow blueberry crops, but over 98% of the country’s blueberry production occurs in 10 of those states.

Blueberries can also thrive in some other countries and continents, including South America, New Zealand, and Australia. However, since blueberries grow so well in several U.S. regions, this berry doesn’t need to be imported for Americans to enjoy it on a regular basis.

Benefits of Blueberries: Positive Health Effects

As you can see, the blueberry has a long history in U.S. agriculture and shows no signs of losing its popularity. Now it’s time to learn a bit more about the benefits of blueberries and why you should include this superfood in a healthy, balanced diet.

At Clean Juice, we help people support their health and longevity with consciously crafted smoothies, bowls, sandwiches, juice shots, and much more. Try out all of our blueberry creations and find your next favorite health fix today! Our fave at the moment? The Youthful One. It’s so good and refreshing on a hot summer’s day!

Cognitive Health

There are many reasons to maintain a balanced diet full of nutritious foods, but brain function is one huge benefit many overlook. When you are on a healthy eating journey, you may focus on the immediate physical results that nutritious meals can create. But the health of your mind long-term is a significant part of overall wellness and should be prioritized.

Thanks to the high antioxidant content in blueberries, eating this superfood can help to reduce oxidative stress in the body and brain. This type of stress tends to lead to brain aging, which can eventually cause diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Regularly eating blueberries can help support your neurons, especially as you age. Early studies already show their value as a strong supporter of brain function in older adults. If these results can be determined in a matter of weeks, imagine how much the blueberries in your diet could support your cognitive health after eating them for years!

Great Source of Antioxidants

Antioxidants in foods can help improve brain health over time, but this powerful compound can do even more.

Antioxidants are naturally occurring chemical compounds that fight the effects of oxidative stress within the body, which is caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals can generate on their own through your metabolism, but habits like smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can increase their production.

When left unchecked, free radicals can cause serious damage to healthy cells, leading to various illnesses and conditions. Antioxidants are compounds that fight off free radicals. While they also occur naturally in the body, eating foods like blueberries which are full of anthocyanins, can help boost antioxidant production.

Elevated levels of free radicals are linked to conditions like autoimmune disease, inflammation, and cancer. With more than 9,000 antioxidants present in a single cup of blueberries, this tasty fruit is an easy way to increase the antioxidants in your body and help to prevent disease.

Healthy Heart

Without a healthy heart, many other bodily processes can become weakened or disrupted, leading to serious health consequences. That’s why supporting heart health with the benefits of blueberries is recommended for people of all ages.

Some studies have linked blueberries with reduced blood pressure, especially with individuals who already struggle with high blood pressure. Adding the benefits of blueberries to your diet could help to decrease your risk factors for heart disease.

Lower Cholesterol

In addition to blood pressure regulation, keeping your cholesterol at a reasonable level is another important aspect of heart health. Every person has both “good” and “bad” cholesterol, and the levels of both have to be kept in check in order to prevent disease.

Without proper antioxidants in your diet, “bad” cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol, can become oxidized by free radicals. This process is one of the most significant risk factors for heart disease. Eating blueberries and other foods high in antioxidants can help to decrease oxidized LDL cholesterol in the body, reducing the risk of heart problems.

Smooth Digestion

Did you know that your digestive health plays a big role in your overall wellness? Improper digestion can lead to many different health complications. Additionally, when your digestion isn’t on track, it can simply cause a great deal of discomfort, making your day-to-day life more difficult.

One of the benefits of blueberry consumption is the superfood’s high fiber content. Fiber is an essential part of healthy and regular digestion. When you eat enough fiber in your diet and pair it with plenty of water, your digestion will be smoother, and you are less likely to experience uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating or constipation.

One cup of fresh blueberries includes nearly four grams of dietary fiber with less than 100 calories. Unlike some other sources of fiber that might be more calorically dense, blueberries are low in calories, not overly filling, and still support better digestion with ease.

Reduced Inflammation

Free radicals can cause all kinds of issues in the body, and one of the root causes of those issues is inflammation. When tissue becomes inflamed, the healthy cells within can become damaged. This is the source of many autoimmune diseases and serious illnesses.

In addition to its illness risk, inflammation on a smaller scale can cause discomfort or even pain. Some individuals can experience serious swelling or soreness after exercise or even during their day-to-day life caused by oxidative stress in the muscles.

The benefits of blueberry for inflammation can include decreased muscle soreness after exercise as well as reduced risk of inflammation-related disease. This means positive effects in the short and long term, especially if you have an active job or exercise often. 

Healthy Skin

One of the benefits of blueberries is the low-calorie count.

Many people want their skin to be as smooth and luminous as it is healthy. (We are all familiar with the “skincare” craze currently happening.) There are many ways to support the appearance and health of your skin from the outside, but doing so from the inside is just as important and effective.

You can create strong, healthy skin by including plenty of vitamins in your diet. Vitamin C, in particular, is essential for boosting collagen production, the most important compound for skin elasticity. Eating a single cup of blueberries could boost your vitamin C intake by more than 20%.

To make your skin as healthy and youthful as possible, make sure to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen on a regular basis, and avoid smoking. You’ll be well on your way to your best skin ever.

Strong Bones

Supporting heart health with the benefits of blueberries is recommended for people of all ages.

Keeping your bones strong is important for multiple reasons. It will keep you feeling capable and mobile in your daily life now and reduce your risk of arthritis or brittle bones as you age.

In order to keep your bones strong, there are a variety of natural compounds that are essential to your diet. Some of these include:

  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Phosphorous
  • Magnesium
  • Zinc
  • Manganese
  • Vitamin K

These vitamins and minerals help support bone density and are present in blueberries. The more consistent you are with your micronutrients, the faster you’ll be able to heal in the event of a broken or fractured bone.

These nutrients also support your joints and muscles, which support your bones and keep them properly cushioned. This means that by including blueberries in your diet, you could help to prevent painful bone damage in the future.

Low in Calories

Calories are an important metric to pay attention to when it comes to your diet. If you eat more calories than you need to support your activity level and bodily functions, you could put your body at risk of the many issues associated with excess fat gain.

Like many fruits and vegetables, one of the benefits of blueberries is the low-calorie count. A single cup of this superfood is roughly 80 calories and provides your body with so many much-needed nutrients. Choosing foods like this over foods with high-calorie counts but low nutrient content is always the better option when it comes to your health.

How to Include More Benefits of Blueberry in Your Diet

There are many ways to introduce more blueberries into your diet. These tasty berries are great as a snack on their own. They also make delicious toppings for cereal, yogurt, and acai bowls.

Prefer to drink your blueberries? Try blending them into a nutrient-packed smoothie or refreshing juice. With organic almond butter, almond milk, banana, chia seeds, lemon, and blueberries The Wild One from Clean Juice is a delicious choice.

Benefits of Blueberries and So Much More at Clean Juice

The benefits of blueberries go way beyond their delicious taste. At Clean Juice, we know firsthand how much some fresh blueberries can elevate the taste of a smoothie, juice, or bowl while also increasing the nutrient profile and supporting good health.

Looking to enjoy the benefits of blueberry while staying cool this summer? Try our brand-new Blueberry Lemonade, a refreshing treat only here for a limited time. Enjoy the flavorful combination of freshly-pressed lemon and apple juice blended with blueberries, honey, and coconut water for some extra tasty hydration on a hot summer day. This will quench your thirst for sure.
This and many other healthy and delicious offerings are available now on our $6 Summer Item menu. Check it out while supplies last at a Clean Juice near you!

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

If you’re unsure whether blueberries would be a healthy choice for you, ask your doctor.