Fruits juice is an umbrella term for all types of juices which are extracted from fruits. Juice is the natural liquid contained in tissues of fruits and vegetables, and while vegetables are juiced as well, fruit juices are more popular as these are enjoyed by everyone, everywhere in the world. There are various ways to prepare juices and these are among the most commonly and widely prepared household drinks. These are also commercially produced on a very large-scale. Fruit juices are served in cafes, eateries and restaurants across the world.
While eating a whole fresh fruit is always more encouraged, extracting the juice ensures that all the nutrients of the fruit stay intact while making it easier to consume. This is probably one of the biggest reasons for the popularity of juices. In some cases, juicing a fruit is the only way of extracting all its nutrients because when eaten raw, the peel is often taken off. Juicing, however, can be done with peels of the fruits and this adds more fiber to the drink, making it healthier, which is one of the prime fruits juice benefits.
Fruits have been juiced since ancient times and references to juices have been found in ancient texts and documents collected from all over the world. The exact stories of how juices came into being, or the exact places of origin, are very difficult to trace.
Fruit juices are a popular breakfast drink and are also an important ingredient of various cocktails.
Fruit Juices: Common Ingredients Used
Fruits juice can be made with any fruit of preference. Due to modern technology and advanced machinery, even the smallest and less juicy of fruits can be effectively juiced. Traditionally, juice was extracted from oranges, apples, pineapples, plums, watermelons, melons, apples and other naturally juicy fruits. In today's times, however, every fruit can be juiced, no matter how small it is.
The juice can be of a single fruit or a combination of 2 or more fruits. The fruits picked for juicing largely depend on individual tastes and preferences.
Fruits Juice: Preparation Overview
Making fruit juices is fairly easy and it generally does not take more than a few minutes to juice a fruit. The preparation time, however, largely depends on the quantity that needs to be made. In homes, the juice is extracted with the help of hand or electric juicers. Electric juicers take less time and are ideal for use when large quantities need to be juiced. Removing the peel is optional, but in the case of fruits like pineapple, the peel needs to be taken off before the flesh is juiced.
When manufactured commercially, fruits juice is made almost entirely by machines. The fruits are prepared as required and then processed in machines. Finally, the juices are packaged, sealed and labeled.
Fruits Juice Benefits
Fruits juice is popularly consumed for the various health benefits associated with them. Orange juice, for example, is said to be very rich in Vitamin C, potassium, folic acid and other nutrients. It is believed to be a safe and natural remedy for colds and flu. In addition, it strengthens the immune system, fights high cholesterol and purifies the blood. Similarly, prune juice is directly linked to a healthier digestive system. For decades, cranberry juice has been consumed as a remedy for bladder infections. Research has revealed that a substance in cranberries effectively prevents bacteria from binding to the bladder.
In recent years, consumption of fruit juices has increased in the West mostly due to the wide-spread perception of people that juices are a natural and healthy source of vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
Many of the health benefits associated with fruits juice have been supported by research. It has been seen that regular consumption of certain juices reduces the risk of various cancers and even slows their progression. Juices have also been linked to reduced levels of blood pressure and delay in onset of Alzheimer's.
While there have been questions over the various fruits juice benefits, especially because of their lack of fibers, the definite benefits offered cannot be refuted altogether. Moreover, when juiced with the peel, juices are rich in fiber as well. Caution, however, needs to be taken when consuming juices which are high in sugar content, like grape and strawberry juices. These are not suitable for people suffering from diabetes, hypertension and other weight-related issues.
Juices are recommended for everyday consumption but in regulated quantities. When taken in moderation, fruit juice can help both adults and children meet the daily recommended intake of nutrients and calories.
Fruits Juice: Trivia
In the UK, the fruits liquid can only be tagged as a juice if it is 100% fruit juice as per the Fruit Juices & Fruit Nectars (Scotland) Regulations 2003 and the Fruit Juices and Fruit Nectars (England) Regulations.
Freshly squeezed fruits juice is always preferred over commercially produced alternative as manufacturers sometimes put misleading information on labels.