A Shot of Veggies

A Shot of Veggies

By Stacey Altherr

Drink your vegetables. From parents to the National Institutes of Health medical research center, “eat your vegetables” has been the mantra for decades. Today, it’s possible to consume them in a big way, with one 32 ounce drink equaling five or six servings of fruits and vegetables.

Juice bars are popping up all over Long Island, from mom-and-pop places to chains. Juicing machines pulverize the vegetables and fruits – from kale and spinach to carrots and berries – into liquid form. Many juice bars add herbs and spices, such as turmeric and ginger, to pump up the nutritional value.

Benefits

Proponents say the vitamins and minerals stay intact and make it possible to drink more nutrients than someone would probably eat at one sitting, giving a shot of energy and overall well-being. People are paying more attention to healthy lifestyles and research on longevity and it’s the same “conscious awakening” that is fueling the proliferation of health food stores and juice bars. People are starting to spend money on prevention. Taking control has become more important to consumers. Juicing can take the place of a meal or supplement one. Many juice bars also offer cleansing juice programs, but it’s best to check with a doctor before embarking on a juice “diet.”