Natural Juices – a healthy alternative!

I have tried a variety of juices both natural and artificial. With the exception of water, a cold glass of juice is without question the best way to cool down after a long hot day.

I even invested in a quality food processor so that I could make my own juice. Of course with my busy schedule sometimes I simply do not have the time to mix natural juices.

I decided to try out different brands of natural juices on the market and I was pleasantly surprised at the wide range of local juices available. Of course imported juices still had a very prominent place on the supermarket shelves, however when I asked around most consumers liked that they had other choices along with the local juices.

Benefits of Juice

After buying natural juices for a number of weeks, I noticed that I had more energy and had less aches and pains. After being struck with the chikungunya virus several weeks ago, I am still struggling with fatigue and joint pains so anything that brings relief from my symptoms is greatly appreciated.

I also tried combining several types of juices and that was also a tatsy success. It is important for consumers to check the labels on the juices they purchase as sometimes they do not contain much natural ingredients.

I was curious about the health benefits of our local juices so I went to a health food store and spoke to the proprietor who informed me that many of our local fruits have been proven to provide many health benefits. Soursop juice, for example has been known to relieve the symptoms of asthma and high blood pressure.

Papaya juice has also been touted as a anti-inflammatory agent which is excellent for those still suffering from relapse of chick v virus.

Some countries have ‘exotic’ juices which they claim have health benefits too.  I remember reading about the acai berry juice as well as the noni juice (which is also available in Jamaica).

Both fruits are referred to as ‘super fruits’ because of their antioxidant properties.

Certainly there is a market for Jamaican fruits on the international market. I think that more can be done so that others can enjoy the several benefits that come from an invigorating glass of Jamaican juice!

What’s your take? Let me hear from you!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner online writer