As far as I’m concerned, committing to a fully liquid detox diet (the so-called juice cleanse) is a rather controversial decision health wise. A lot of people talk about the benefits they experience after completing a 3, 7 or even 30-day juicing detox, which include the balance of flora in the bowel, improved digestion and mood, better-looking skin, higher levels of energy, weight loss, etc.
But, most nutritionists insist that juice cleanse, just like any other kind of liquid diet, has significate side effects that undermine the whole stated purpose of it – feeling better and being a healthier person. They also add that there’s no definite scientific evidence that proves even the semi-reasonable positive consequences of juice detoxing diets, on the contrary to the negative effects it has on the human’s body.
On top of that, any kind of dieting in the pursuit of weight loss, digestion or immune system improvement should be controlled and prescribed by a qualified nutritionist, whom you may find on HireRush.com.
However, while a persistent juice cleanse/detox is far from being safe and healthy, drinking detox juices while following a normal balanced healthy diet that keeps your energy levels up and provides you with all necessary nutrients is not only fine but actually pretty beneficial for you. They’ll fill you up with the vitamins, reduce inflammation, help you consume the daily norm of fresh fruits and vegetables, boosts you up with the healthy energy and actually clean up your body if you drink them first thing in the morning.
Again, when combined with a balanced diet, they won’t do any harm, but rather make your nutrition a lot healthier.
Generally, expert nutritionists say that watermelon, cucumber, lemon/lime, grapefruit, ginger, and strawberries are among the best detox juice ingredients. But, these are the recipes of detox juices I personally really like. You may prepare them the night before or in the morning and take them with you on your journey to work/gym/school/college. They’re particularly great after a holiday feast or long night out, if you know what I mean.
Top 5 detox juices you’ll enjoy
1. The ultimate green cleanse that doesn’t taste like grass
This green smoothie is a perfect detox breakfast option. It’s packed with fiber, vitamins A and K, potassium and the healthy amount of carbs that make it quite filling. On top of that, it doesn’t taste like your typical green juice as it incorporates some of the sweet fruits that give it the nicest flavor the green juice may have. So, all the benefits and great taste in one cup.
Blend:
- 3 cups of frozen diced pineapple
- 1 cup of frozen banana pieces
- 3 cups of fresh baby spinach
- 1 celery rib (optional)
- of grated ginger
- of chia seeds
- juice from half a lime
- a bit of water (optional, to ensure smooth blending)
2. Beet and blackberry juice
Despite its flavor, beet is a great blood cleanser that contains a high amount of nutrients, iron, vitamin C and manganese potassium in particular. Add some fruit and berries to conceal the earthy flavor and add another bunch of vitamins for a powerful cleansing multivitamin detox drink.
Blend:
- 3 small beets (chopped)
- 2-3 medium apples (chopped)
- 8 oz. of blackberries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ inch piece of fresh ginger
3. Green juice to improve your digestion
This is one of the ‘greener’ green juices, but it works like magic when it comes to cleansing your digestive system, which is quite essential every once in a while. If you’re not on good terms with green juices, there’re high chances you’ll still like this one, as apples give it the fruity flavor that makes it quite tasty.
Blend:
- 2 apples
- ¼ of a large cucumber
- 1 handful of baby spinach
- 1 stick of celery
- 1 handful of parsley
- Ice cubes
4. Delicious tropical cleanse
Let’s switch things up and move from green juices one may quickly get bored with to the bright and incredibly delicious fruity paradise, which still does a great job at detoxing the digestive system.
Blend:
- 1 medium papaya (chopped)
- 1 small pineapple (chopped)
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 1 kiwi (peeled)
- 1 ½ cup of coconut water
5. Berry and kale detox juice
The sweet flavor and appealing color of berries combined with greens conceal the antioxidants, iron, omega 3 fatty acids, folic acid, Vitamin C and other goodness this juice is filled with. It’s great for cleaning up your digestive system and skin, as well as strengthening your immune system.
Blend:
- 1 cup of mixed frozen berries
- 1 cup of fresh kale/spinach
- ½ cup of frozen bananas
- 1 cup of fruit juice of your choice (orange juice combines well)
- 1 tbsp of flax seed meal
- 2tbsp of tofu or Greek yogurt
Affordable detox juicing recipes
I find that sometimes detox juices and smoothies get quite expensive for those who’re on a budget. But, it’s totally possible to prepare a highly beneficial juice packed with vitamins and nutrients you need to start your day without breaking your budget. In fact, a glass of these juice shouldn’t cost you more than $1.65. They’re quite easy, as most of the ingredient you need to prepare them you most likely have in your fridge on regular basis. Just don’t buy your energy drinks, Starbucks coffee or unhealthy snacks and you’ll be able to make plenty of those.
Carrot and celery detox ($1.65 a glass)
Blend:
- 15 carrots
- 8 stalks of celery
- 2 apples
Kale green juice ($1.45 a glass)
Blend:
- 1 bunch of kale
- 3 apples
- 1 lemon
Vitamin A boost ($1.30 a glass)
Blend:
- 10 carrots
- 2 large apples
- ½ inch piece of ginger
