Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Why not try making this ‘Nutritious and Delicious’ juice and benefit from the amazing nutrients it provides, which aid detoxification, boost energy and help support the immune system.
Fresh Apple Juice is packed full of plant chemicals, including the flavonoid quercetin which provides anti-inflammatory properties. Apples are low in calories, a great source of vitamin C and potassium and also contain pectin, a ‘soluble’ fibre that can help to lower ‘bad’ cholesterol.
Ginger contains antibacterial properties along with anti-inflammatory compounds.
Carrots are one of the most nutritious root vegetables. They are one of the richest vegetable sources of carotene (this gives them their vibrant orange colour), high in fibre and packed full of the antioxidants beta carotene, vitamin C and E and also the minerals calcium and potassium – all great nutrients when it comes to supporting fertility. Beta carotene, also called ‘plant’ vitamin A, is a carotenoid, which is converted into vitamin A by our liver. Beta-carotene helps to produce the female sex hormones (oestrogen and progesterone). These hormones are important for ovulation and for the regulation of the menstrual cycle. A study by Harvard researchers printed in the Journal Fertility and Sterility (2013) found that vegetables such as carrots, spinach and lettuce rich in the antioxidant beta-carotene can improve sperm motility (its ability to swim toward an egg). They discovered that men who ate the most carrots saw improved sperm performance by 6.5 to 8 percent. Carrots are also linked with cleansing and flushing toxins out of the body.
Fresh lemon juice is also a great detoxifier and helps to support liver enzymes. It is also a fantastic source of the antioxidant vitamin c- helping to zap those free radicals and is a natural antiseptic that helps to kill harmful bacteria.
Kale is a member of the cruciferous family, containing Sulphur and compounds of Sulphur including Sulforaphane and indole 3 carbinol that support liver detoxification….and that’s just for starters!!
Turmeric contains a powerful compound called Curcumin which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The combination of these ingredients pack a great nutritional punch that not only help detoxify the liver and reduce inflammation, they are also great for energy levels and supporting the immune system.
What you need to make your Super Apple, Ginger and Carrot Juice
(Makes 1 juice) – double up as appropriate and keep covered in the fridge).
120ml of fresh apple juice
½ inch of fresh peeled ginger
1 large carrot
1 handful of kale
1 lemon
½ inch of fresh peeled ginger
½ inch of turmeric root
Place all the ingredients into a juicer and juice well- pour over ice and Enjoy!