Beets are one of the most powerful foods in the plant-food kingdom. They provide liver and cardiac protection and infuse the body with a host of beneficial antioxidants. This celery beet juice kicks it up a notch in the respect that celery contains over 8 anti-cancer compounds that help terminate cancer cell growth.
Beets contain phytonutrients called betalains, with two of the best-studied being betanin and vulgaxanthin. These two nutrients provide support for the Phase 2 detox steps in the liver. It is best to consume beets in raw form (such as that in this juice) because food pigments like betalains undergo a steady loss from food as cooking time is increased.
Betanin pigments also help inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, which helps lessen tumour cell growth. The phytonutrients in beets lessen inflammation by inhibiting the activity of cyclo-oxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2). These enzymes are normally used by cells to produce messaging molecules that activate the inflammatory response. When the body is under a state of chronic inflammation, these inflammatory messengers can make problems worse – such as in the case with atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Drinking beet juice can help improve the condition of heart-related problems, as well as those with type 2 diabetes.
Celery Beet Juice Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled
– 6 stalks celery
– 1 apple
– 2 inches fresh ginger root
– 1 lemon, peeled
Method:
Run all of the above ingredients through a juicer and enjoy immediately for maximum effects.
