The concept of juicing (typically requires using a machine or equipment in order to turn raw fruits and vegetables into a liquid) has been around for quite some time. I can remember those Jack Lalanne commercials back in the day about juicing - dude was EVERYWHERE! The juicing craze had arrived and people seemed to take a greater interest in being healthy.

Growing up, juicing was a foreign concept in my household. If the word juice was mentioned at home, it was about drinking Orange Juice, Capri Sun or Hi-C. However, in my adult years, taking care of my body plays a major role in everything I do in life. Even though I don't juice 100% of the time, I am still aware of its health benefits. Today, I'd like to share a few of them and possibly make juicing sound like an attractive dieting alternative.

One of the benefits of juicing is that it retains most nutrients from whole versions of fresh fruits and vegetables. Processed juice takes the healthy fun out of it and often uses sugar as a replacement. Lots of fruit and vegetable juices have vitamins and minerals that can prevent against cardiovascular disease, cancer and various inflammatory diseases. There is not any scientific proof that juicing is healthier than eating whole versions of fruits and vegetables. However, juicing is much easier to consume on a regular basis.

Juicing is low maintenance in prep and high value in food/energy source. Other than cutting and slicing fruits and vegetables, juicing is pretty quick and efficient. When using a juicing machine (like a Magic Bullet), please clean the blades after each use. If you're juicing regularly, it's imperative that you only make enough juice for one setting. Juice that isn't consumed right away can lead to food poisoning and unwanted bacteria. Once the air hits the juice, it is receptacle to bacteria and also compromises the nutritional value of the juice.

Also be sure to properly wash your fruits and vegetables before use. Washing before use can help remove any dirt, pesticides or bacteria. If you're using a cutting board and knife to slice the fruits and vegetables, please wash before and after wash as well. Even though E. Coli sounds like a cool rapper name, it's something you don't want to be around.

Juicing might now sound like the way to go but what about fiber? If you're concerned about your fiber content, make sure you eat plenty of prunes, pears and almonds (or other fiber-rich solid foods). Fiber is very important in having a smooth digestive system.

Overall, juicing has a positive effect on eating healthy and living a balanced lifestyle. If you're not ready to fully commit to juicing, it's ok. Try replacing one meal per day with juicing. Trust me, you won't regret it!