BGR! Eats: Introduction to Juicing

Last year, I was introduced into the world of juicing when I decided to embark on Whole Living Magazine's Whole Living Action Plan. This regimen included juices and smoothies, but it definitely got my juicing interests piqued. Then I met two ladies in Black Girls RUN! Hampton Roads who constantly talked about the wonderful world of juicing. It's funny what a little good peer pressure will do to you. I immediately went to the nearest Bed, Bath and Beyond and bought my very first juicer, Jack LaLanne's Power Juicer Express. I have to admit, the first couple of recipes I tried were absolutely horrible. I believe I even gagged a few times (way too many carrots), but here's where my juicing friends would play a major role. But before we go there, first, what's all the hoopla behind juicing? Juicing, simply put, provides the body with nutrients is needs QUICK. Much faster than when you eat your fruits and veggies the traditional way. It's the easiest way to get instant energy! Also, it gives your digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder and liver, a rest from all the junk we subject our bodies to. Not to mention, we Americans tend to butter and cook our veggies to death. With juicing you get the benefits of it being raw, thus getting all of the vitamin-rich goodness it has to offer. While some critics believe eating your fruits and veggies is just as beneficial as drinking, them, I have to say I'm a true believer and can always tell a difference when I juice. Interested in trying it? Here's a very tasty and simple recipe I've been using. If there's one thing I've learned, the simpler, the better.

Kapple Juice

4 apples (I prefer Fuji) 3-4 handfuls of kale Directions: Wash apples and kale thoroughly. Juice apples and kale. Shake Well. Voila! Drink immediately. (The longer it sits, the greater chances of it oxidizing and loosing nutrients). My fellow running buddies and juicers have opened up an entire new world to me and I'm completely obsessed. We share recipes through tips, trials and errors. This is just the beginning of my juicing experience, so be sure to check back often! In the meantime, check out these books: The Big Book of Juices: More than 400 Natural Blends for Health and Vitality Every Day The Everything Juicing Book

Also in Black Girls RUN!