Cold pressed juices: Rich in nutrition, vitamins, minerals…

Recently, the trend of cold pressed juices has been sweeping the world. It is based on the belief that there are more nutrients in cold pressed juices as compared to juices made with a centrifugal machine. In other words, they contain more vitamins, minerals and enzymes. The centrifugal machine has metal blades which slice the fruits and vegetables and while spinning, they exude more heat. As a result, the vitamins and other nutrients are destroyed to some extent. Also, the fruits can get oxidised, which also reduces their nutritional value. In the cold pressed method, the fruits and vegetables are actually pressed, thus extracting the maximum amount of juice and leaving behind the pulp and fibre. The juice, thus extracted, is said to be fresher, with the nutrients intact. The experts believe that cold pressed juices are more refined, with more nutrients and no fibre.

Green juice, made by the cold pressed method, is said to be rich in enzymes. It helps to detoxify the body and also makes the system more alkaline. It can contain greens like spinach, mint, parsley, celery, cucumber, lemon juice and fresh ginger.

Actually, one of the easiest ways of supplying nutrients to the body is through fresh juices of fruits and vegetables.  They are the richest sources of the vitamins, minerals, trace elements and enzymes, which are invaluable for beauty.  Juices are in a form which is quickly and easily assimilated by the body, because they are easily absorbed into the blood stream.

Being rich in the essential nutrients, juices revitalise the blood, organs and glands. They also have a calming effect on the nerves. Thus, they are of benefit to both mind and body.  They also help the process of cell-regeneration. This is of vital importance, as the youth and beauty of the skin depends on the efficient renewal of healthy cells. Taking fresh juices also helps to strengthen the immune system and prevents early degeneration and aging.  Juices have long been a part of naturopathy, because of their powerful cleansing and curative actions.  They help to cleanse the body of toxins and wastes and also purify the blood.  The functions of the internal organs and glands improve and this, in turn, is reflected externally, on the skin, hair, eyes and nails.

Juices can be extracted from almost all fruits and vegetables. You can choose from apples, grapes, oranges, grapefruit, pineapple, pomegranate, beetroot, carrots, cucumber, tomato, spinach, cabbage and so on. Start by taking small quantities and increase the amounts gradually.

It is essential to remember that juices should be diluted with water. They should also be taken fresh, immediately after extraction, so that all the nutrients are intact. The fruits and vegetables should be very fresh. Lemon juice or orange juice may be added for flavour, but try to avoid the addition of salt and sugar. Juices and vessels in which juices are kept should not be made of aluminium or any corrosive material. If you have any illness with diet restrictions, be sure to seek your physician’s advice regarding the fruits and vegetables that are permitted for you.

Cold pressed juices are also becoming popular in India and many ingredients are added to increase the nutritional value and the taste. Some of these ingredients are quite exotic, like vanilla beans, aloe vera, amla, etc. Or combine cucumber with celery and lemon juice, which is beneficial during summer. They also contain minerals that help to cleanse the system. Gourds are also available in summer and have a high water content. Bottle gourd (lauki) can be combined with tomato and carrots to make juices.