Orange Glow Juice Recipe

Orange Glow Juice Recipe

Orange Glow Juice Recipe

This recipe focuses on maximizing the nutritional benefits and flavour of carrot juice.

Health Benefits of Carrot Juice:

Carrot juice is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, offering numerous health benefits:

  • Rich in Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A precursor): Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is crucial for:
    • Eye Health: It supports good vision, protects the surface of the eye (cornea), and may help prevent age-related macular degeneration.
    • Immune Function: Vitamin A plays a vital role in the immune system by supporting the growth and function of immune cells.
    • Skin Health: It contributes to skin cell growth and repair, and may offer some protection against sun damage due to its antioxidant properties.
  • Good Source of Vitamin C: This antioxidant helps boost the immune system, protects against free radical damage, and is essential for collagen production, which is important for skin, blood vessels, and wound healing.
  • High in Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.
  • Contains Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in the body, contributing to heart health.
  • Antioxidant Power: Besides beta-carotene and vitamin C, carrot juice contains other antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which benefit eye health, and various phytonutrients that help protect cells from damage.
  • May Support Heart Health: The potassium and antioxidants in carrot juice can contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • May Have Anti-Cancer Properties: Some studies suggest that certain compounds in carrots, including beta-carotene and polyacetylenes, may have anticancer effects by inhibiting cancer cell growth. However, more research in humans is needed.
  • May Improve Liver Health: The antioxidants in carrot juice can help protect the liver from damage and support its function.
  • Hydrating: Carrot juice is mostly water, which helps keep you hydrated.

Important Note: While carrot juice is healthy, it’s best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It’s lower in fiber than whole carrots, and the natural sugars are more concentrated. Individuals with blood sugar issues should be mindful of their intake.

 

Ingredients:

  • 6-8 medium-sized carrots: Choose firm, bright orange carrots for the best flavour and nutrient content. Wash and scrub them thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but the skin is also nutritious (just ensure they are very clean). Chop off the ends.
  • 1 small knob of ginger (about 1 inch): Adds a zingy flavour and anti-inflammatory benefits. Peel it. (Optional)
  • 1/2 lemon or lime: Brightens the flavour and adds vitamin C, which can also help preserve the juice’s nutrients. (Optional)
  • 1/2 apple (optional): Adds natural sweetness and extra nutrients. Choose a variety you enjoy. Core and chop it.
  • A pinch of turmeric powder or a small piece of fresh turmeric (optional): Enhances the anti-inflammatory properties and adds a subtle earthy flavour.
  • A pinch of black pepper (optional): Helps with the absorption of curcumin in turmeric.
  • Water (if using a blender): You’ll need a little water to help the blending process. Start with about 1/4 cup and add more if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Instructions:

Using a Juicer:

  1. Wash and prepare all your ingredients (carrots, ginger, lemon/lime, apple, turmeric if using).
  2. Feed the carrots, ginger, and apple (if using) into the juicer one by one.
  3. Squeeze the lemon or lime juice into the collected carrot juice.
  4. If using fresh turmeric, you can juice a small piece along with the other ingredients. If using turmeric powder, stir it and a pinch of black pepper into the finished juice.
  5. Stir well and drink immediately for the best nutritional benefits. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a chilled juice.

Using a Blender:

  1. Wash and prepare all your ingredients (carrots, ginger, lemon/lime, apple, turmeric if using) and chop them into smaller pieces.
  2. Place the chopped carrots, ginger, and apple (if using) into the blender.
  3. Add about 1/4 cup of water to help with blending.
  4. Blend on high speed until completely smooth. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
  5. Place a fine-mesh sieve or a cheesecloth-lined strainer over a bowl or glass.
  6. Pour the blended mixture into the strainer and use a spoon or spatula to press down and extract as much juice as possible. Discard the pulp.
  7. Squeeze the lemon or lime juice into the strained juice.
  8. If using turmeric powder, stir it and a pinch of black pepper into the finished juice.
  9. Stir well and drink immediately. Add ice if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade carrot juice!