This week I have been feeling beyond lethargic, my energy levels are hurting and that never plays out well for me. Feeling over it and craving some change I am going to do a weekend juice cleanse. Now I am sure some of you are going to turn your nose up or disagree with my choice, but it’s something I have plenty of experience with and have come to crave every once in a while.
Now this is not for everyone, although I do recommend adding some fresh juice into your routine. It’s a simple and tasty, yes I said tasty, way to get extra nutrients into your diet which never hurts! Taking one day, even a few hours to prep some frozen juice bags is something you will be thanking yourself for. And your body will thank you too! Think of them as a DIY instant oatmeal 2.0 but fresher and packed with goodness. Now I am not saying to forego your instant oats (although it may be a good idea, more on this later) but think of this as a modern upgrade to your breakfast. Here is how you can do just that…
What you will need to get started:
Ziploc freezer bags
A clean knife, and cutting board
Room in your freezer – if you find you freezer is packed this may be a good time to take some time to purge some freezer burnt or unhealthy items that you don’t need. It’s for the best I promise.
A blender or a juicer- Personally I blend all my juices, but if you don’t want to, or have access to a juicer by all means juice away! I find I enjoy having the extra pulp and its an easy way for me to sneak in some extra fiber. not only that but it keeps me full longer. Often there is confusion over juices and smoothies.
When it comes to these recipes you can use either a juicer or a blender to create more of a “smoothie” effect. You will have more fiber and extra water (which you will be adding separately). When using a juicer you are cold pressing your ingredients, essentially squeezing out the moisture and liquids. Either way your getting a ton of good stuff, if you can stomach the pulp, I recommend it. I find it much more beneficial, an easier clean up, and quicker.
Now the fun part.
Here is where you can get creative. Get excited for what your mornings are going to have in store for you from now on.
Some of my favorite items for a green-base include:
Broccoli
Cucumber
Kale
Swiss chard and/or Spinach
Fruit is next, this for me is ALWAYS bananas, whole kiwis, and then whatever else I am in the mood for. This usually means pineapple, apples, and some strawberries. I find its hard to find reasonably priced fruit this time of year so I like to stock up in the summer and freeze it all. This way I can just portion it out into my bags and pop it right back in the freezer.
Pretty much anyway you mix it these are going to be delish-as long as you don’t over do it on the greens before you’re ready. Start small and build up adding more and more. Otherwise you might turn yourself off the taste.
My Favorite Juice Recipes:
Green base, 3 bananas, 3 kiwis, 1 handful of basil
Green base, 1 1/2 bananas, 1 apple, 3 pineapple spears, thumb of ginger, 1 carrot
Green base, 1 banana, 3/4 cantaloupe, watermelon, (sometimes coconut water)
Green base, 1 banana, 1 handful of blueberries, kiwi
Green base, 1 banana, 1 handful of strawberries, 3/4 whole watermelon,
Green base, 1 1/2 apples, 1 handful of mint, 3 stalks of celery
Check out our PINTEREST, I made a board just for you guys for all sorts of different juices, cleanse and information on the benefits of juicing. And for those who are interested in doing a cleanse I have printed out DR.OZ`S WEEKEND CLEANSE you can pick up down stairs by the charging station.
We also have a nutrition team on staff if you have specific questions about doing a juice cleanse. Have a quick 20 minute consultation or get a customized nutrition program. Learn more about what we offer here.
Happy juicing!
Written by Marina
Key Takeaways
- Smart use beats overuse. Use juicing as a supplement to a solid nutrition plan, not a replacement for real meals.
- Juicing isn’t a magic fix—it’s a tool. It can support your health goals, but it won’t replace a balanced diet or consistent training.
- Whole foods still win. Juices often strip out fiber, which plays a major role in digestion, satiety, and blood sugar control.
- Calories add up fast. Drinking fruits and vegetables is easier (and quicker) than eating them—meaning you can unintentionally consume more calories than expected.
- Juicing can help you get more micronutrients. If you struggle to eat enough fruits and veggies, juices can fill the gap—but shouldn’t be your only source.
- Protein is missing. Most juices lack protein, making them a poor standalone meal if your goal is muscle building or sustained energy.
- Short-term cleanses aren’t necessary. Your body already detoxes naturally through the liver and kidneys—no expensive juice cleanse required.
FAQs
1. Is juicing actually healthy?
It can be, but only when used as a supplement—not a replacement. Juicing delivers vitamins and minerals, but lacks fiber and protein, which are essential for a balanced diet.
2. Can juicing help with weight loss?
Not reliably. While some juices are low in calories, they’re easy to overconsume and may leave you hungry, which can lead to overeating later.
3. What’s better: juicing or eating whole fruits and vegetables?
Whole foods are the better choice. They contain fiber, which supports digestion, stabilizes blood sugar, and keeps you full longer.
4. Are juice cleanses effective for detoxing?
No. Your body already detoxifies itself through the liver and kidneys. Juice cleanses are unnecessary and often unsustainable.
5. Can I replace meals with juice?
It’s not recommended. Most juices lack protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them incomplete as a meal and likely to leave you unsatisfied.