Thoughts on the New Year + Orange Immunity Booster Juice

Hello and happy first weekend of 2014!  Over the past week, I've done some reflection on the past year - accomplishments, big events, life changes- and a lot of thinking about the year to come.  I'm happy that, for the most part, I have posted on the blog fairly  regularly, and I intend to keep this up in 2014.  I do, however, have a few things I would like to work on (with the blog in particular).  I tend to post a lot of dessert recipes, because I love creating sweet treats to share, but I know many people are trying to reset after an indulgence holiday season, so I am going to try to post a more diverse set of recipes (think juices, salads, snacks, and more raw desserts - I make these all the time, I just don't write about them as much).  Also, I'm going to try to put in a bit more information about the ingredients I use and (what I know about) their health benefits, because I think it's super interesting and useful, again especially considering many peoples renewed commitment to health in the new year.  Finally, I'm going to continue to post about restaurants, events, travel, etc, since I think exploration of the world outside my kitchen is an important part of urban backpacking life.

Here's the first juice I made this year - inspired by this.  I bought fresh turmeric earlier this week and am so glad I finally tried juicing it; it really adds an interesting flavor to this juice, not to mention a load of health benefits.  Turmeric is an acquired taste, so start small and increase as you wish.  If you don't like turmeric, or can't find it fresh, feel free to substitute ginger - I'm sure it will turn out fabulous.

Orange Immunity Booster Juice:

1 orange
4 carrots
1/2 small apple
1/2 small beet
1 inch fresh turmeric

Wash, juice, and enjoy!  Makes enough for two small glasses, or one large glass. 

 

Why does this juice rock? 

- Turmeric - Mainly known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, this orange root is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K.  Turmeric also contains a substance which helps stimulate the immune system.  Additionally, it helps improve digestion and is a natural liver detoxifier (increases the production of vital enzymes).  
- Beet - One of richest dietary sources of antioxidants, beets also contain nitrates which improve blood flow throughout the body and a hefty dose of vitamin C.
- Orange - In addition to vitamin C, oranges are full of potassium, a mineral responsible for helping the heart function.  And although most people think of citrus fruits as acidic, they actually have an alkalizing effect on the body, which means they help the blood take in more oxygen.  Without proper oxygen in the blood, we get real sick (think cancer, heart disease, diabetes). 

Cheers to health and happiness in 2014!

4 medium organic carrots
1 small golden beet ( 2- 3 inches in diameter) scrubbed and cut in half (optional)
1 apple - cored
1 orange (peeled)
1 Tablespoon sliced fresh turmeric root ( peels are OK) more to taste. - See more at: http://www.feastingathome.com/2014/01/a-new-year-fresh-turmeric-tonic.html#sthash.RTRmb0Im.dpuf

4 medium organic carrots
1 small golden beet ( 2- 3 inches in diameter) scrubbed and cut in half (optional)
1 apple - cored
1 orange (peeled)
1 Tablespoon sliced fresh turmeric root ( peels are OK) more to taste. - See more at: http://www.feastingathome.com/2014/01/a-new-year-fresh-turmeric-tonic.html#sthash.RTRmb0Im.dpuf