The picture above shows freshly juiced juice versus pasteurized.  The claim is that the pasteurized juice kills all the enzymes.  What about juicing?  Does that also kill enzymes.  Let’s take a look.

Enzymes are key proteins found mainly in raw fruits and vegetables used to break down food during digestion and assist in nutrient uptake by the body. Many people seeking to gain and maintain great health opt to juice fruits and vegetables so that the body readily absorbs nutrients consumed through the juice. While it is somewhat common knowledge that processing the raw fruits and vegetables aid in better nutrient absorption without any loss of vitamins and minerals, it is not so clear whether the same processing allows enzymes to remain intact.

Common Enzymes And Known Causes Of Enzyme Denaturation

Protease, lipase, amylase, nuclease, peroxidase, and cellulase are some categories of digestive enzymes. Protease is the essential enzyme that breaks down proteins. The enzyme lipase works to digest all types of fats. Amylase are enzymatic proteins that help break down complex carbohydrates. Nuclease divides nucleic acid to form nucleotides needed for cell energy transport. Peroxidase is an oxidoreductase enzyme that lends electrons to radicals to reduce them to harmless by products. Cellulase are enzymes that break down plant fiber cellulose. Applying heat or strong acids serves to deactivate or denature enzymes. Those within the health and wellness industry consider foods devoid of enzymes as dead foods. Consumption of these “dead” foods is the very thing that those utilizing juicers want to avoid at all costs.

Scientific Study On Enzymes and Juicing

In addition to heat and acids, extreme processing especially by juicing of foods using centrifugal juice extractors like the Breville model juicing machine reportedly destroys enzymatic activity. This assumption gained credibility through the work of Max Gerson. Max Gerson was a German doctor who developed alternative healthcare treatments for cancer and other degenerative diseases based upon dietary changes. His many years of research and applied techniques led him to develop the Gerson Therapy. This health protocol advocated a mainly vegetarian diet, elimination of animal protein, and the consumption of fresh juice. He advocated the use of the hydraulic press juice extractor over the centrifugal juicers mainly because of the results he received from his patients. According to Dr. Gerson, the hydraulic press juicer preserved the enzymes while the centrifugal machines did not. Dr. Gerson died in 1959, but his legacy and Therapy live on at the Gerson Institute started by his daughter Charlotte Gerson.

Recently, Michael Donaldson, PhD of the Hallelujah Acres Foundation sought to shed light on the assumption that the centrifugal juicer deactivated enzymes through a comprehensive scientific research study on the subject. Dr. Donaldson conducted an experiment using eight different models of juicers that included hydraulic press and centrifugal juicer models. He juiced carrots from the same fifty pound bag lot, and tested the amount of enzymes left in the juice after the extraction process was complete. A sample of ten pounds of carrots were mixed together and divided among the eight juicers for extraction. Upon extraction, Dr. Donaldson tested the juice for enzyme content. Each sample was tested for six different types of enzymes, but amylase and peroxidase enzymes were the only ones present in sufficient quantities deemed useful for the test. The final results showed that the hydraulic press juicing machine preserved more of the enzymes than the centrifugal machine. Both enzymes were still present in the juice produced by the centrifugal machines like the Breville model, however, they were present at a reduced level.

References Used

1. http://www.hacres.com/pdf/documents/other-juice-extractor-comparison-2007.pdf
2. http://www.juicerselect.com/norwalk-juicer.html
3. http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-digestive-system-enzymes.htm

Juicing is a useful way to incorporate more natural sources of vitamins and minerals into a diet, but it does come with some potentially annoying problems as well. Gas and bloating are commonly reported when men and women start juicing. The reason is primarily related to the vegetables or fruits used in juicing, so it is possible to continue drinking fruit and vegetable juices without facing the uncomfortable symptoms.

Causes of Gas From Juicing

The causes of developing gas or bloating after juicing are related to the type of fruits or vegetables used in the juice.

In many cases, fruit juices have a high level of natural sugars. Some fruits, such as prunes and pears, also contain a type of sugar called sorbitol. That sugar can cause gas and bloating due to the bacteria in the digestive system. The human body is not able to use sorbitol, but bacteria can feed on the sugar and produce a gas.

Beyond the sorbitol in fruits, vegetables can also cause gas in some individuals. The most common vegetables to cause gas or bloating include carrots, beets, cabbage and brussels sprouts. When juicing, try making adjustments that remove the gaseous vegetables. If the juice does not cause bloating or gas, then the cause is one or more of the specific vegetables rather than the juice itself.

Ways to Reduce Gas

Although the best way to incorporate fruits and vegetables into a diet is through eating them, juicing is still a good way to obtain the nutrients. When gas or bloating develops, it is important to take measures to reduce the symptom rather than eliminating the juice from a diet plan.

A simple solution to the problem is adding water to the juice. Although water will result in reducing the amount of nutrition, it can also help the body adjust to the change in a diet plan. Adding juice to the diet can sometimes cause gas from the sudden change. Starting with a mixture of 50 percent juice and 50 percent water will allow the body to adjust. After the original mixture, gradually reduce the amount of water until the drink is completely juice again.

If adding water does not help, then it is important to make adjustments to the fruits and vegetables. Take out one vegetable or fruit at a time and see the impact on the body. If the body continues getting bloated or gassy, then remove another fruit or vegetable. In some cases, the problem is not the entire mixture, but rather a specific fruit or vegetable. By removing that item, the amount of gas reduces and the body is able to feel normal again.

Juicing is a healthy way to enjoy fruits and vegetables without trying to eat a large portion throughout the day. Although it is important to eat a healthy and balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, adding juice to the plan can help reach the goal of eating more portions throughout the day. The key is drinking juice that helps the body feel healthier rather than bloated.

Juicers Reviewed Here

According to some sources, roughly 65 percent of the American population endures constipation on a regular basis. Constipation is linked to a number of health problems. The condition lends itself to irritability, acid reflux, inflammation, abdominal pain and bloating, malnutrition, poor digestion, lack of appetite and even cancer. Some experts also believe that the toxins that build up in the body due to chronic constipation may also contribute to the development of mental illnesses and mood disorders such as anger problems, depression, anxiety and ADHD.

The causes of constipation are many and varied, including things like changes in lifestyle, sudden weight loss, dehydration, stress, medication use, alcohol consumption, food sensitivities and pregnancy. However, the most common causes of constipation are merely a poor diet and the digestive problems caused by it. For this reason, many people turn to juicing to gain much-needed vitamins, minerals and fiber, but some are reluctant to try it because they’re worried that it could worsen their constipation.

Does Juicing Cause Constipation?

When done properly, juicing does not cause constipation. If you’re going to give juicing a try, it’s important to choose your ingredients with care. Certain fruits and vegetables are known to cause or exacerbate the condition while others can clear it up.

Foods to Avoid

Bananas

Bananas are comprised mostly of sugars and starches and contain almost no fiber or water. The starches in these fruits serve as binders in the digestive system, acting as a glue to make everything you’ve eaten into a sticky clump that is difficult to pass through the intestines. Furthermore, the large amounts of sugar also contribute to constipation by drawing water out of your body, dehydrating you and preventing your intestines from moving waste.

Brassica Vegetables

Popular vegetables in the brassica family include collard, mustard and turnip greens, cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli and kale. While these foods are a rich source of nutrients, care must be taken not to overconsume them. They are potently goitrogenic and interfere with the thyroid’s ability to absorb and use iodine. For this reason, they’re especially not recommended for people with hypothyroidism. When thyroid function is suppressed, chronic constipation is often one of the first signs.

Fruits to Use

Apples

Apples are one of the best fruits for constipation. They’re loaded with sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that stimulates bowel function. They’re also high in magnesium, which draws water into the intestines.

Plums

Like apples, plums contain sorbitol. They’re also rich in pectin, a type of fiber that acts as a lubricant in the intestines, aiding the defecation process.

Melons

Bedsides being rich in fiber and constipation-fighting nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, B vitamins and copper, melons are also loaded with water. These fruits can be used to add precious liquid to your juices to rehydrate your body and improve the frequency and quality of bowel movements.

Grapes

Grapes are another excellent fruit to juice. They’re one of the best sources of the electrolytes minerals magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Adequate electrolyte intake is an important part of maintaining regularity.

Juicers Reviewed Here

The Breville Juice Fountain Plus and the Hurom Slow Juicer are two popular names in the juicing industry. Breville has a proven track record of creating quality products, while the makers of the Hurom Slow Juicer have promised to change the way people juice. Which product is right for you?

Centrifugal vs. Masticating
The Breville Juice Fountain Plus is a centrifugal juicer. This means that the machine juices fruits and vegetables by tearing it with blades, then spinning the juice to the edges of the machine. Filters between the blades and the edges of the juice pitcher separate the pulp from the juice. Centrifugal juicers work very quickly. A liter of juice can be produced in less than five minutes. Because these juicers use a spinning motion to separate juice and pulp, the juice becomes slightly oxidized.The Hurom Slow Juicer is a masticating juicer. Masticating juicers use an auger to separate the pulp and juice. Most masticating juicers use a twin gear system. Traditionally, this system tends to be much slower than using a centrifugal system. However, the Hurom Slow Juicer uses new technology, which allows this juicer to work just as fast as centrifugal juicers. Because this juicer uses a masticating approach, the juice has no oxidation.Both juicers work well for people strapped for time. If you are concerned about oxidation in your juice, choose the Hurom Slow Juicer.Prep Work
The Breville Juice Fountain Plus has a wide feed tube. This tube is wide enough that most fruits and vegetables can be added to the juicer without being chopped. The Hurom Slow Juicer has a much smaller feed tube, so you must spend time prepping produce before it can be put in the juicer.If chopping vegetables and fruit before you juice them is a hassle, choose the Breville Juice Fountain Plus.

Components
The blades of the Breville Juice Fountain Plus are made from stainless steel. The auger of the Hurom Slow Juicer is made from acrylic. Stainless steel is a stronger material than acrylic. The Breville Juice Fountain Plus is likely to be more durable than the Hurom Slow Juicer. However, Breville offers a one year warranty, while Hurom offers two-year warranty and a 10-year motor warranty.

In the end, it is important to choose the juicer that will fit your lifestyle. The more convenient it is for you to juice, the more likely you are to do it.

Breville Juice Fountain Plus

Hurom HU-100 Slow Juicer

A juicer allows you to make delicious and healthful fruit and vegetable drinks right from home. While it is not common for a juicer to malfunction, it is possible for parts to wear out with use. If your Breville Ikon juicer is not functioning properly, then consider purchasing replacements parts in order to restore it to like new condition. Purchasing replacement parts will not only save you money, but it will help ensure your juicer is ready for enjoyment for years to come. While a specific part may be broken on your juicer, it is recommended that you replace the following parts anytime you notice your juicer not operating efficiently.
Filter Basket with Blades

The filter basket is one of the most critical elements of the Breville Ikon juicer. It is responsible for macerating the fruit and vegetables fed into the juicer and separating any pulp during extraction. If you notice your juicer not producing as much liquid, or if large amounts of pulp are present in the juice, then replacing the filter basket may remedy the issue. This is a user serviceable part, and can be replaced with the included installation tool.

Juice Collector Spout

The juice collector spout is responsible for funneling all of the juice into the collection cup. Overtime, it can become clogged if not cleaned properly, or can break from misuse. If you notice a restricted flow from your Breville Ikon juicer or if the machine is dripping during or after extraction, try replacing this part before purchasing a replacement unit.

Top Cover

The top cover allows for safe and efficient feeding of fruits and vegetables into your juicer. Do not operate the machine without a proper top cover, as doing so could lead to injury. This piece is easy to install, and is an affordable option to purchasing a new juicer.

Regardless of how your juicer is malfunctioning, consider ordering replacement parts before purchasing a new unit. Not only can it save you money, but it can help ensure your juicer is ready to use for years to come.

While parts are available directly from Breville, you can also purchase them online at  www.ereplacementparts.com.

The first noticeable difference between the Breville Ikon Juicer vs the Hurom Slow Juicer would have to be the price. The Hurom Slow Juicer runs almost twice as much as the Breville Ikon Juicer, so let’s examine whether it is worth that much more, based upon its performance and general overall appearance.  (KitchenBlossom product review here)

Breville Ikon

Hurom HU-100 Slow Juicer

A refurbished product is, essentially, a product that has been returned to a retail store for one reason or another, sent back to the manufacturer, tested for any defects, then repaired and resold. Refurbished products are often better to buy than new products, as you are getting the item for a significantly lower cost, and since it has been tested for quality assurance, it is nearly as reliable as a new product. Most refurbished items usually include some kind of warranty, as well.

The Breville company offers a full line of small kitchen appliances, such as food preparation machines, cookers, beverage makers and other equipment. The Juice Fountain® Elite (review) and the Juice Fountain® Plus (review) are two of their most popular power fruit and vegetable juicers. When choosing a good juicer, consumers usually compare key elements, such as juicer capacity, motor power, cutting disc materials and other specifications. The key differences between the Juice Fountain® Elite and the Juice Fountain® Plus exhibit some of these product variances. Although both juicers have 1.1 quart (1-liter) juice jugs that feature froth separators, most of the specifics differ between the two machines.