Prepare to unlock the power of polyphenols! When it comes to healthy eating, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the myriad of health dos and don’ts, and ever-changing advice from the experts. But one term that certainly deserves your attention is polyphenols. These natural compounds are found abundantly in various plant-based foods and beverages and have been linked to a wide range of health benefits. Here we will dive deeper into what exactly polyphenols are, their potential benefits, and where you can find them.

1. What exactly are polyphenols?

Polyphenols are a group of compounds found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beverages like tea and red wine. They are known for their antioxidant properties, which means they help protect our bodies from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive oxygen molecules produced by normal cell processes as well as external factors such as radiation, air pollution, smoking, and chemical exposures. What makes polyphenols truly fascinating is their incredible diversity. With over 8,000 identified types, they come in various forms, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans. Each type of polyphenol offers its own set of potential benefits, adding to the excitement of exploring their effects on human health.

2. What are the health benefits of polyphenols?

Research on the benefits of polyphenols is ongoing, but studies have shown promising results. Polyphenols have been associated with a lower risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, various types of cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Studies show that polyphenols can promote heart health by improving blood pressure, enhancing blood vessel function, and reducing inflammation. Consuming foods rich in polyphenols, such as berries, grapes, green tea, and dark chocolate, may contribute to a healthy cardiovascular system. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of polyphenols are not to be overlooked, as chronic inflammation is a significant factor in many diseases. These properties can help reduce inflammation in the body and potentially lower the risk of conditions like arthritis, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers.

• Plums: Plums, including varieties like black and red plums, contain polyphenols like anthocyanins and phenolic acids. Be sure to incorporate these juicy and healthy fruits!
• Kiwi: Kiwi fruits are not only rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber but also contain a range of polyphenols, including flavonoids, catechins, and anthocyanins. The vibrant green flesh with tiny black seeds adds a delightful visual appeal.

Vegetables

• Broccoli: Broccoli belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and contains various polyphenols, including flavonoids, glucosinolates, and phenolic acids. These compounds contribute to broccoli’s antioxidant and potential anticancer properties.
• Spinach: Spinach is a leafy green vegetable rich in polyphenols such as flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) and phenolic acids. It is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in salads, sautés, or added to smoothies.
• Kale: Kale, another leafy green powerhouse, boasts an array of polyphenols, including flavonoids, glucosinolates, and phenolic acids. It offers a robust nutritional profile and can be enjoyed in salads, soups, or as a side dish.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain various polyphenols, particularly flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, as well as the antioxidant compound lycopene. Cooking tomatoes can enhance the bioavailability of these beneficial compounds.
• Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers, whether red, yellow, orange, or green, contain polyphenols like flavonoids and phenolic acids. They are not only delicious but also provide a range of essential nutrients. Enjoy in salads or as a healthy snack with some hummus!
• Onions: Onions, both red and white varieties, are rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids like quercetin. These compounds contribute to the pungent flavor and potential health benefits of onions.
• Garlic: Garlic is not only a popular flavor enhancer but also a source of polyphenols such as flavonoids and organosulfur compounds. It has been associated with potential cardiovascular and immune-boosting benefits.
• Eggplant: Eggplant, also known as aubergine, contains polyphenols like nasunin, which gives the vegetable its deep purple color. These compounds contribute to eggplant’s antioxidant properties.
• Artichokes: Artichokes are rich in polyphenols, particularly caffeoylquinic acids. These compounds are known for their potential antioxidant and hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) effects.
• Red Cabbage: Red cabbage is a colorful cruciferous vegetable that contains various polyphenols, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids.

Nuts & Seeds

• Almonds: Almonds are a rich source of polyphenols, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids. Whether in the form of almond butter or in your favorite trail mix, enjoy these yummy nuts for those antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties!
• Walnuts: Walnuts are known for their omega-3 fatty acids, but they also contain polyphenols like ellagitannins and flavonoids.
• Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are small but mighty when it comes to polyphenols. They contain lignans, which are a type of polyphenol known for their potential antioxidant and estrogenic properties.
• Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse and a source of polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. Sprinkle into your smoothies or enjoy some chia pudding!
• Pumpkin Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, contain polyphenols such as flavonoids and lignans. These are easy to toss into a salad or enjoy on their own as a crunchy snack!
• Sunflower Seeds: Sunflower seeds offer polyphenols, including phenolic acids and flavonoids. Throw some into your next salad for an easy way to get those health benefits.

Legumes

• Black Beans: Black beans are a popular legume that contains polyphenols such as flavonoids and phenolic acids.
• Lentils: Lentils, specifically red lentils, are rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids such as catechins and proanthocyanidins. These are a great addition to your next soup recipe!

• Chickpeas: Chickpeas are a versatile legume and contain various polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. Toss into a salad or enjoy your favorite hummus to reap these yummy and nutritious benefits.
• Soybeans: Soybeans, commonly consumed in various forms like tofu and soy milk, contain polyphenols called isoflavones. These compounds are known to benefit hormonal balance.
• Green Peas: Green peas are not only a delicious and vibrant vegetable but also a legume rich in polyphenols. They contain various flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their antioxidant properties.

Beverages, Herbs, & More

• Green Tea: Green tea is celebrated for its rich polyphenol content, particularly catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
• Black Tea: Black tea, derived from the same plant as green tea but undergoing a different processing method, also contains polyphenols, including theaflavins and thearubigins.

• Coffee: Coffee beans contain polyphenols such as chlorogenic acids. The polyphenol content in coffee can vary based on factors like the type of bean and the brewing method. Sit back, relax, and sip your morning coffee with the satisfaction of these super polyphenol benefits!
• Red Wine: Red wine, enjoyed in moderation, is known for its polyphenol content, including resveratrol. Resveratrol has been the focus of research due to its potential cardiovascular benefits.
• Cocoa and Dark Chocolate: Cocoa and dark chocolate are rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids. The higher the cocoa content, the greater the polyphenol concentration. Look for dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa (70% or higher) for optimal polyphenol content!
• Herbal Teas: Herbal teas made from various plants, such as chamomile, peppermint, ginger, and rooibos, can provide polyphenols. These beverages offer a wide range of flavors and potential health benefits.
• Herbs: Be sure to add in a little extra oregano, rosemary, basil, thyme, mint, sage, or parsley into your next recipe! These herbs all possess polyphenols which contribute to their antioxidant properties.

Our Polyphenol Powerhouse Juices – Inspired by their rich color

1. Red: Pomegranate-Cranberry-Black Grape Juice
2. Green: Kale-Broccoli-Green Cabbage
3. Yellow: Ginger-Lemon-Orange_Turmeric

It’s worth noting that cooking and processing can affect the polyphenol content of foods. For example, boiling vegetables can cause some of the polyphenols to leach out into the cooking water. However, overall, it’s still possible to get a good amount of polyphenols from a healthy, varied diet.  A great way to gain optimal polyphenol benefits is to juice!  Any combo of the fruits and vegetables above make for a delicious, antioxidant-rich elixir.

4. Here are a few easy ways to incorporate polyphenols into your diet (aside from juicing)

• Make an açai bowl – using grid #2 and grinding berries. Top with berries and yogurt.
• Check out our matcha mocktail with orange juice and chili pepper. 
• Make pesto using grid #4 or simply add fresh herbs to any drink. We juice everything from basil, parsley, to rosemary. 
• Consider this shrub (sipping vinegar) made with juice and apple cider vinegar. 
• Swap your usual white rice or pasta for a whole grain variety like quinoa in these hearty soup recipes.

And how about the best carrot cake you have ever had with PURE ground carrots and apples as ingredients?

Conclusion:

Polyphenols may not be as well-known as some other nutrients, but they are undoubtedly valuable to your overall health. By incorporating more polyphenol-rich foods into your diet, you may be able to give your body an extra boost in terms of disease prevention and overall wellness. Our only last tip is to shop with your eyes…find the colors that bring you joy and juice them. They are good for you!

Sources:

• PubMed Central: “Plant polyphenols as dietary antioxidants in human health and disease”
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835915/
• Pub Med: “Polyphenol intake and mortality risk: a re-analysis of the PREDIMED trial”
  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24886552/ 
• European Journal of Clinical Nutrition: “Identification of the 100 richest dietary sources of polyphenols: an application of the Phenol-Explorer database.”
  • https://www.nature.com/articles/ejcn2010221
• The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: “Polyphenols and disease risk in epidemiologic studies”
• Science Direct: “Role of the small intestine, colon and microbiota in determining the metabolic fate of polyphenols”
  • https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006295217301417 
• Web MD: “Healthy Foods High in Polyphenols”
• Healthline: “Top Foods with Polyphenols”
• UCLA Health: “Polyphenols can be found in many fresh foods”

Medical Disclaimer

PURE Juicer is a juicing company. We are not doctors or medical experts. All content and information on this blog and website is for informational and educational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice, and does not establish any patient-client relationship by using this website.

Although we strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for professional advice. You should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area for your health questions and concerns before making any professional, legal, medical, financial, or tax-related decisions.

Our hearts always get bigger when we speak to service members. Chef Shana McPherson, who previously trained and worked as a pharmacist in Jamaica, now works in the Army as a culinary specialist. She bought the PURE Juicer for her own health, and we love that she is trying all our recipes! Watch and listen to her interview  as she describes how juicing has changed her life–and the lives of her friends.

SM: So, I am a certified pharmacy technician, and I’m also a culinary specialist currently serving in the United States Army.

JL: So tell me about the pharmacy part. How did you get into pharmacy?

SM: So, I’m originally from Jamaica.

JL: Yeah.

SM: So while I was living there, I was working in the pharmacy while I was there before I migrated here to the United States in 2011.

JL: Okay.

SM: And then I started working in home infusion while living in New York. I left home infusion to join the Army to be a culinary specialist because my friends that were in before me, they used to always talk trash about people that do, cooks in the army. So I told them that I’m going to join, so that I can change their mindset towards the culinary specialists.

JL: Yeah.

SM: So I joined the Army in 2020.

JL: Okay.

SM: Yes, 2020. And I’ve been a culinary specialist since then. Right now, it’s mostly focusing on the culinary side of things. Every now and then somebody will come to me about a pharmacy question, but I’m not really in that world anymore. But I’m still a certified pharmacy technician. So when I do get out of the Army, if I decide that I want to do both, then I can.

JL: Yep, how did you get into juicing? Tell me how juicing got into your world.

SM: So juicing, actually I saw Shanique, the Kreative Vegan.

JL: Yeah.

SM: She is the one that I saw with the juicer. And when I saw the juicer, I was like, “That juicer. I gotta get it.” The hydraulic press. That’s what sold me with the juicer. And I clicked on her page, and I saw, I tried to zoom in to see the name, but then I looked and I saw that she had it in her caption, what the name of the juicer was.

So I went ahead and tried to get the juicer. And I remember when I wanted to get the juicer, I actually called the support line, and I actually spoke with David, because it was a holiday. It was a holiday! So I called and I spoke with him in regards to the juicer. And I went ahead and purchased. That was in 2021.

JL: Okay.

SM: Yes, so juicing for me, it’s a quick and easy way for me to get my nutrients and vitamins because I’m always on the go. So if I don’t get to juice in the daytime, I’ll do it at night. So I’ll just grab a juice in the morning when I’m running out for PT in the morning. ‘Cause I don’t really like munching on vegetables that much. So, I juice it, so I can get it.

JL: Yep, yep, that’s great. So do you juice every day, or do you juice for a few days? How often do you juice?

SM: So, when I juice it normally lasts me for a few days, like probably three days or four days. And then I’ll juice again. But I don’t juice every day.

JL: Yeah, I mean that’s the beauty of the PURE juicer is that you, especially when stored correctly…

SM: Yes.

JL: They last a very long time the way in which it’s done? Yeah.

SM: Yes, definitely. So I try to juice because I, I try to juice and finish it within three days, three to five days.

JL: Yeah.

SM: You know, but I love my juicer. I’m telling you, that hydraulic press, oh my God. When I found out that I could juice the papaya without crushing or anything, I was like, “What?” I went out and got me some papaya right away.

JL: Yeah.

SM: I saw the strawberries. I remember I was on TikTok, and I saw juicing strawberries, and I’m like, “Oh, so I can juice the berries too.” So I’m like, “Okay.” So I went ahead and I got those, and trust me, I’m loving it.

JL: Oh, so you’re doing the, are you juicing the papaya, and that’s going okay?

SM: Yes, I juiced the papaya, and it came out perfect.

JL: Good.

SM: I juiced the papaya, I juice the strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and I get every drop. None is wasted.

JL: Do you juice mainly for yourself, or do you juice for other people too?

SM: So at first I was juicing for myself, and then my friends, they’re like, “I’ll pay you to make some juice for me, ’cause you have a really good juicer.” So I started to do it like a few weeks ago. They were like, “You should do it, we’ll pay you for it, just make them, ’cause I love your juicer.”

JL: Yeah.

SM: But it was mainly just for me, but then now my friends they tell me if I make it, they’ll pay me for it. So I’m like, “Okay, it’s a win-win.”

JL: Well, and it’s so easy. Once you get rolling, it’s not hard to make an extra couple of bottles or like-…

SM: No, it’s not. And what I love is that the juicer, all the parts can go into the dishwasher. So it makes cleanup so, so easy.

JL: Oh my gosh, I agree, I love it. I love that fact.

SM: Yes.

JL: And at one point when we started, David said, “Don’t put the cutters in the dishwasher.” And at one point I was like, “I’m just going to put that damn cutter in the dishwasher.” And it came out more beautiful than I’ve ever seen.

SM: Yes.

JL: So…

SM: Trust me.

JL: Throw it all in there.

SM: Yes, that’s what I really love, that you don’t have to like sit there and go through all the little parts, and getting stuff out. You just do a quick rinse, and put it in the dishwasher and that is it.

JL: That’s it, that’s it.

SM: Yes.

JL: You mentioned the papaya and the berries. Do you do any, but you also said that you, that you’ll drink your vegetables. What are some of the vegetables that you like to make juice with?

SM: So I do like the cucumber, kale, spinach. I made a pineapple and tomato juice the other day, because my mom, she told me, she said, “You should try pineapple and tomato.” And it was actually pretty good. I added a little bit of ginger to it, and it was really delicious.

JL: So just…

SM: I was surprised.

JL: Did you see the video that we pressed the tomato, we pressed the tomato?

SM: Yes.

JL: Did that work for you?

SM: Yes it did. It did.

JL: And it was good? Did you press tomato and then the pineapple separate, or did you put the pineapple…

SM: Yes. I pressed the tomato on the pineapple separate. But then I, after I did it, then I saw your video, and I was like, “Okay, so I can put the pineapple and the tomato together, hmm, interesting.”

JL: You could, like skin down. Like skin down, so the, the juice can get through.

SM: Yes, definitely.

JL: So I’m wondering how, you know, you got the juicer, you wanted the juicer. Any health issues that you were dealing with, energy, low energy, too much energy? I mean, I’m wondering if there was any health motivations for it too.

SM: Not really, but the first juice that I made, was the immune booster.

JL: Oh yay!

SM: Yes, that was the first juice I made. And I could feel a difference, because down here in North Carolina, when it’s the pollen season, springtime. And all those pollens, I normally get like really sick. But I make sure to start getting my immune boosters ready before spring. And it actually, it actually helps.

JL: Yeah.

SM: And then, and then by doing green juices, it actually gives the body a good cleanse as well.

JL: Mm-hmm, I’m gonna do a cleanse. We have that new detox guide, where it’s got a green juice, a carrot apple juice, and the immune booster. And then it has like an almond fennel milk for just to help with sleeping. But I’m gonna, I think I’m gonna add a juice. There’s one that’s got broccoli, kale, and cabbage, which sounds horrendous, but it’s actually really, really good.

SM: Actually, actually, when you juice the broccoli, you don’t taste it in the juice.

JL: No.

SM: Because I made a green juice once, and it had broccoli, spinach, kale, cucumber, and some other stuff. I think I had ginger, and a little bit of pineapple in it. And you did not taste any vegetable. It was really refreshing.

JL: And the health benefits are amazing, I love…

SM: Yes.

JL: The stalk in there too. Have you noticed, did you juice the stalk?

SM: Mm-hmm.

JL: Yeah, that’s nice and sweet. That’s nice and sweet.

SM: Yes.

JL: Oh my goodness. Okay, well you’re just, oh this is wonderful. I’m so grateful that you know, you’re, that you’re doing the different things that we’re playing with too. Have you made any, any of the nut milks or anything yet?

SM: I actually have some almonds in my pantry to soak so I can make some almond milk. I haven’t made the milk yet, but it’s on my list. (Editors Note: See Shana’s IG almond milk video here!)

JL: Yeah, oh I can’t wait to hear what you think. Just as a reference, and you probably know this as a chef, but if you run out of time, and I always try and keep things cool, but you can use hot water, and that will soak, and that will make the almonds ready faster.

SM: Yes, like soak it for like a hour, and then you’re good to go.

JL: I mean if I use boiling water, I turn the boil off, but then I pour it in, I can get ’em done in 20 minutes. And sometimes I do that ’cause I need to just do the videos and a demo video.

SM: Yes.

JL: But ideally it’s, it’s longer, so you’re not, you know, we’re just so passionate about the enzymes, and just keeping everything as raw as possible.

SM: Yes.

JL: That’s only in an emergency, but for the most part I do everything overnight, yeah.

SM: Yes, yes, yes. That’s what I have to remind people. Like sometimes people ask me about the juice, and I’m telling them like, I normally made my juices to ask me three to five days, because after that the enzymes start breaking down, and you will not get all those nutrients that you’re supposed to get from the juice.

JL: Yeah, have you ever frozen anything like the immune boosters are great to juice, and freeze and like juice cubes or whatever?

SM: I haven’t, but I know that it can be done, I just haven’t done it, because as soon as I make my juice, I normally really drink them. They don’t last for long.

JL: I love it. I’m gonna make a, a big batch of the immune juice, and I’m gonna put it into cubes. And so in the morning, I’ll have a hot water, and I’ll drop one of those in there with some honey. And that’s honey, like especially if it’s local honey, it’s also great for pollen season and things like that.

SM: Yes, yes, my husband actually got me a bottle the other day, of our local honey from around here. So that’s, that’s a good idea, I’ll have to try that.

JL: Oh, and message us too, and tell Kimmy that we wanna order you some of David’s honey. ‘Cause he’s a beekeeper, but I call him sort of a bee rescuer, because he goes to these hives that people don’t want, and they’re gonna destroy them. So he’ll go and he, I’ve literally seen him save a hive, and get the queen. And so all the bees go into the boxes, and he puts them in his car, with like nothing around it. And so he’s driving around with these bees in his car, and he just drives them home, and he saves them.

SM: Oh, nice, nice, nice.

JL: Okay, having so much fun, I wanna make sure I’m asking all the questions. Had you used any other juicers before? Or is PURE the first one?

SM: No.

JL: Really?

SM: PURE is my first juicer. And I’m not going anywhere. Everybody that see the juicer, they’re like, “Shana, I want one of those juicers.” I’m like, “Well, if you go to purejuicer.com, you can have one.”

JL: Yeah, yeah, you know, we hear many, many times that people go through anywhere from one to seven juicers, and they get the PURE and they’re like, “I wish we would’ve just gotten the Pure.” And we’re like, “I wish you did too.”

SM: No, I got the PURE the first time I saw Shanique with it, and I said, “I want that juicer.” And I went for it.

JL: And what would you say if somebody’s on the fence about juicing? You know, if you had a friend that’s not sure about juicing, or not sure it’s worth it, or they just think it’s a hype, like what would you, what do you tell people who are on the fence?

SM: So, when they normally do that, I normally make juice, and give to them to change their mind. That’s what I normally do. I’ll just say, “Okay, I’m a whip up a batch of juice for you, and you’ll try it, and then you let me know what you think about it.”

JL: Nice.

SM: And that’s, and sometimes that’s how I actually get them to say “Okay Shana, I’ll pay you to make me some juice.” And I’m like, “Okay.” ‘Cause they’re like, they don’t have the time. A lot of them don’t have the time to do it.

JL: Yeah.

SM: So if I make the juices they’ll pay me to do it. So I said, “Okay, it’s a win-win for both of us.”

JL: I know for me, when I started juicing, I started craving more fruits and vegetables, and craving less of meat and things like that. I’m wondering did your cravings change after you started juicing?

SM: My energy level went up when I started juicing.

JL: Yeah.

SM: And I noticed a difference, like if I go for a while not juicing, then my energy’s like really low.

JL: Yeah.

SM: But cravings, I don’t crave sweet as much, when I juice, I don’t crave sweets. And I love sweets.

JL: Do you ever make the ice creams or anything like that?

SM: I made ice cream, but not with the juicer. But I will try.

JL: Just take the berries.

SM: We can do it with the berries.

JL: Yeah, you make your berries and papaya, and just whip it all into ice cream, you can even throw some frozen avocado in there. Or even coconut cream.

SM: Mm-hmm.

JL: Mm.

SM: Okay.

JL:Delicious. Go ahead.

SM: With that juice, with that juicer, the possibilities are endless.

JL: Is there anything else that you’d like to share with us about your experience, and, or about juicing?

SM: Well, my experience with PURE has been an awesome one so far. And I try to encourage everyone to get a PURE when I see them trying to get something else. ‘Cause I’m like, what’s the sense? Just go ahead and get it. Like, you guys keep asking me every time you see me juicing, “Oh my God, I wish I had that juicer.” But I keep telling you guys where to go get it. It’s a no-brainer. Just go to the website and get it. Like, stop beating around and just go ahead and get it ’cause you will not regret it. I made my purchase, and I have not regret that day that I called David, to get info on, on my juicer. I love it. It’s on my counter, my conversation starter.

JL: Yeah.

SM: Whenever somebody comes on, they’re like, what’s this? And I’m like, “Oh, it’s my juicer.” And then I start making some form of juice or something, and they’re like, “Oh my God, that press.” And I’m like, “Yep.” You get every single drop of juice.

JL: Well your videos are fantastic. We love watching what you’re doing on social.

SM: Thank you. I try to video when I can.

JL: Yeah.

SM: Sometimes I don’t, I don’t get a chance to do it, but whenever I do, I’ll definitely be posting.

JL: Oh my gosh, this has just been so fantastic Shana. I have not…

SM: Yes, Jen, I’m so glad that we had this meeting.

JL: Please know I’m always available if you have any questions or if you’re curious about juicing anything at all, just let me know ’cause that’s how we did the papayas and the tomatoes and the milks.

SM: Yes.

JL: A lot of different recipes coming up, but anything that we can do to just keep your experience wonderful. I would love to make sure that happens.

SM: Yes, definitely Jen.

JL: Okay.

SM: I’ll be in touch for sure. All right.

JL: All right. Well you’re amazing!

SM: You too, Jen, and you keep posting those recipes and I’m gonna follow them.

Follow Chef Shana McPherson’s culinary journey on Instagram at @chefshanamcpherson. 

Medical Disclaimer

PURE Juicer is a juicing company. We are not doctors or medical experts. All content and information on this blog and website is for informational and educational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice, and does not establish any patient-client relationship by using this website.

Although we strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for professional advice. You should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area for your health questions and concerns before making any professional, legal, medical, financial, or tax-related decisions.

Watch and read our interview with Eduardo Moreno, father and juicing business owner, to learn how the PURE Juicer changed his family’s life.

EM: My name is Eduardo Moreno.

BM: And my name is Bellen Moreno.

EM: And we have, @lets_smash4juice, in IG. And the company name is Smash LLC. And now-

JL: Smash LLC. And where are you located?

EM: We’re located in Orange County. Santa Ana, precise, near Garden Grove.

JL: Very good.

EM: Yeah.

JL: So I was just curious, you know, we ask the same questions to everybody, because everybody’s path to juicing is different. But, I’m just wondering, why did you guys get started with juicing? Do you have a history with juicing? And, yeah. Why did you start juicing?

EM: Never really have a history on juicing. The only thing is that after we started our family, we started being more conscious of what we give them. And throughout all the juices that we see, we started reading the ingredients, and we didn’t like that at all. And certain things for us to, like, we had so many drinks also in our lifetime, that is just given to us, but not really thinking what was in there.

JL: Yeah.

EM: And now that we have kids, we want them to actually have something great for them to keep their energy going, instead of just fitting fatigue or being down after, you know, drinking a lot of juice with weird sugars, or just imitation sugars that there are. And that’s what we kind of start going for it. Slowly juicing for our kids, and then slowly going with us actually drinking them too.

JL: That’s amazing. How long have you been juicing for?

EM: We started on, I will say, last summer when we start, I was looking at all cold-pressed juices, just started to drink them, but we started doing it ourselves on last October, 2022.

JL: Wow. What do you notice? Have you noticed a difference in your energy? If that was what it was for, and are you, what are you noticing now that you’re starting to drink cold-pressed juice?

EM: I feel the energy that usually, like, I would say like lunches. So when you work on a nine-to-five job, you’ll start getting tired like midday, and that, it’s not happening. Even though we have our kids most of the time, I’m not really feeling any tired of their screams, their running, or… Just not having anything that gives that thought of being, I would say lazy, or just wanting to take a nap with them, or anything like that. So a lot of energy with it. 

My stomach is actually feeling better. Didn’t really used to, I would say, have a lot of bowel movements, but now with it actually helping me out to have it consistent. And I slowly see my weight slowly going down, but not as quick as one would thought. But, just drinking the juices and making all sorts of juices with even the fruits that we never thought that were available. Start pressing them and something different comes out. And just by pressing and taking the organic residue out with the PURE Juicer, it’s something different that I seen, and this tastes really better than just smoothies, in general.

JL: Yeah.

EM: I wasn’t really a fan of smoothies at all. My wife liked smoothies, but I really didn’t like ’em. Just.

JL: Yeah.

EM: I thought it was like the whole healthy, “Let’s eat smoothies.” But just with the PURE Juicer, actually I wanna drink more, ’cause it’s just kinda like a water base, but with nutrients and flavorful, actually.

JL: And surprisingly there’s a lot of soluble fiber and which speaks to just your digestion and your regularity that you get from it. There’s actually, the juice is thicker, it’s smoother, it’s like silky smooth.

EM: Right.

JL: And, you know, the hypothesis is that, you know, there’s soluble fiber in there, so it’s drawing in more water to your system and helping you get rid of all of that. So you might not see the weight loss necessarily, but I, it’s such great news to hear that your body is working the way that it’s supposed to. So now that it’s building trust, I like to say it’s building trust with you. So it’s, you know, at over time it will, you know, the weight will take care of itself. You know, your body will get to where it wants to be, so that’s wonderful.

EM: Uh-huh, nice.

JL: Do you have a juice that you like? Is there a go-to juice for you and for your family, and is it different

EM: The go juice is the orange and carrots. That’s usually what my kids like and that’s only, the only juice that I started even drinking at the beginning.

JL: Yeah.

EM: It’s just carrot juice with orange.

JL: Yep.

EM: And when I start adding more stuff, that’s when it gets intrigued. But the go-to, that’s always even for before I start juicing, was the orange and carrot.

JL: Orange and carrot. That’s so good. I just figured out that you can just cut the ends off the oranges and maybe just take like four pieces of peel off, wrap it without even a liner, and press it. And it’s delicious. And it’s, it works really, really well. So it’s super slick, in case you wanna try that method.

EM: Yeah, I’ll try that one. Yes.

JL: Yeah. Let’s see. Did it take a certain, so you started in October. I’m wondering when you, if you were to tell a customer, like how long for you did it take before you started to see the benefits of juice?

EM: I would say in the, I would say like a month. About a month, about a month, yes.

JL: Yeah How much juice do you say you drink in a week, or in a day, however you wanna do it?

EM: I think we have 64 throughout the week.

JL: Yes.

EM: So we go through a 64 ounce through a week. We have it in the fridge and we press it again and again.

JL: Yeah. Oh my gosh, this is great. It’s making me thirsty.

EM: I usually do twice a week. It’ll be on Monday and Thursdays.

JL: Yep.

EM: For me, obvious ’cause I have my kids most of the time, and have enough time for me to press on those days and ask any of my friends, anybody that follows us on IG, if they want any juices while I’m pressing for ourselves.

JL: Yeah.

EM: And then I’ll add more for them if they would like also.

JL: That’s great. Are you able to sell, or is there people that want the juice?

EM: Yes. I have continuous flow of people or clients that actually come. A few friends that are, I would say, subscription-wise.

JL: Yes.

EM: That they wanted every, every time in the fridge. So I’ll just press it and get it ready for their fridge. And other friends will have a good enough order for them to drink like throughout the whole week.

JL: Yeah. Yeah.

EM: So it’s a, it has a few following that actually love what we’re doing, and they want to try our juices as well.

JL: That’s good.

EM: And how we separate certain juices, it’s something different that you won’t see on the market, ’cause it’s, we don’t really specify much as a healthy option, but a flavorful option.

JL: Mm. I think that’s what people are looking for, and flavor doesn’t remove health–

EM: Right.

JL: So I think it’s such a great entry into juicing. You know what surprised me too, is I learned that black and red grapes, and even green grapes, are so good for our brains.

EM: Oh.

JL: So you think that it’s just sugar, but the neurologist, who’s our medical advisor, she’s like, “That’s actually what our brains feed on.” “That’s what our brains need.”

EM: Yeah.

JL: And those grapes are some of the best things for our brains, so. And they taste delicious.

EM: Awesome. Yeah, we do have a few line of just with grapes. The, what is it, the Blood Dragon Split, that will have the grape. It has a pink pineapple and also has the dragon fruit, the red dragon fruit.

JL: Oh yeah. How do you? That’s pretty slimy, isn’t it? Yeah.

EM: At the beginning, there was no process, but eventually I had a good sign how much to press, what pressure time, or like slowly press it and slowly open out, instead of just one stop and it’ll make a mess.

JL: Yeah. Yeah. And no need to grind it. Just pressing is the way to go.

EM: No, just the seed. The black seeds will be left on the mesh.

JL: Yeah. Starfruit is really good too. And you can just press starfruit, in case you haven’t done that one yet. It’s really yummy.

EM: I actually had the star fruit at the beginning. I did not know how to press it, I just saw it. I’m like, “How am I gonna press this?” It doesn’t really have so much. And me thinking a little bit longer, it kind of went spoiled on it. So I’m like, “All right, I’ll try another time.”

JL: Yeah. You can just press them.

EM: But, I’ve tried, but that was my option once.

JL: Yeah. And in the future, you can always just message us, and if we’ve done it, we’ll let you know how we did it.

EM: Awesome.

JL: And that way, you know, we’re happy to share that. We don’t always keep everything on social, so if we’ve done it, we would love to share how we did it.

EM: Oh, sweet. I like that.

JL: What led you to PURE Juicer and, you know, like just why did you choose PURE Juicer for your family and for your business?

EM: At the beginning, I was actually in a restaurant business for a quite while, like little over eight years.

JL: Oh.

EM: And I seen a bunch of juices throughout my experience there. And when I, I came across the PURE Juicer, it was something different that I never seen before. And with the mesh, how it removes the granite material, just leaves the the pure juice itself, that was something different that I seen, and I advised my wife about it. Like, “Look, this is something different. I seen a bunch of different juices but nothing like this.”

JL: Yeah.

EM: So for me, I was just trying to get for it and I couldn’t actually afford it, ’cause it is on the high end and it’s obviously a great machine. 

And throughout time I was looking on OfferUp, and that’s where we actually got it from. A friend on OfferUp were like, “Hey, you want your juicer?” And they’re like, “Yeah, we were trying it so much for myself, but it’s too much work.” I’m like, “Yes, I seen it’s too much work, but I’m willing to go for it.” 

JL: Yeah.

EM: And I got it from them, from OfferUp. And then slowly had it with us.

JL: That’s awesome. Do you find it’s that much work? ‘Cause I think sometimes people say that, but it’s actually not as much work as you would think. But what’s your impression?

EM: It depends on certain produce or the fruits. It’ll be much work. But if you have a consistent, I’ll say a certain juices that like, not certain juices, certain fruits, just like oranges, some apples, pineapple. Any of those you already have, know way how to cut it, know how to prep it and clean it, and then press it right away.

JL: Yeah.

EM: But I feel like some other people think that they have to go exceed on cleanliness or exceed on prepping it.

JL: Yeah.

EM: So that’s where the time consuming comes along for a lot of people.

JL: Yeah.

EM: But if I did it a couple times, and I, for us to give away to our clients and our friends, it makes us go through trials and errors throughout, and we find better ways when we start juicing. We find better ways to juice more and more.

JL: Yeah.

JL: Efficient. Good, good. Yeah, I found that I can make 24 ounces of carrot apple in 10 minutes. From the very beginning to the very end. Like putting the cloths to dry. So it’s, so I need to do that more so people can see that it is quite easy to do in the process. So, but that’s great feedback. That’s great, and I’m glad that, I mean, that’s great too that you found it on OfferUp. So that you’re able to get a bit of a discount. Way to go.

EM: So eventually, when all this gets more, I will end up buying another one, ’cause how it’s getting busier. I don’t want one day to just fail on me. So hopefully, at the, I have enough, or to have a second one in the near feature.

JL: What do you like using about the PURE Juicer?

EM: I like using it. The features what I use? Like…

JL: Yeah. Like I mean, so it, so work the press is pressing, you know, what do you think of the grinder? Do you, do you use the grinder too, very much? Or is it mainly the press?

EM: I use the grinder on carrots, I use it on celery. I use it with, what was it, the beets. Like gold beets or red beets. Anything that I’ll say, vegetables, or some tough that needs to be grind up, I’ll go through there. It’s easy to clean, not too much hard. It’s just of like two pieces comes off, rinse it, hot water rinse, and let it dry with sanitize. And not that much crazy with it, but the press is just extraordinary, how it just works. It just puts all the fruit and then just comes out very clean.

JL: Yeah.

EM: I like the press a lot.

JL: I know, the press is amazing. There’s actually a video out there, where this woman presses everything from like jelly beans, to cupcakes, to sandwiches.

EM: Go on.

JL: Yeah. She’s, and she uses the PURE Juicer, so.

I think a lot of people like the press. Question for you, so you mentioned that, how you’re feeling, which I love that your digestion is working better. So that’s actually huge, and that it’s building sort of gut health. Have you noticed a difference with your kids, and do they like the carrot orange juice as well?

EM: Yes. They’ll just see me certain places that we go pick up raw material, and they’ll be like, “Oh we’re gonna go get some juices.” ‘Cause they already know if I go there, they’re eventually gonna drink some juices right after. So they’re excited every time we get any fruits, ’cause they just wanna try it. And then if they see me, they just look like, “Is that a different juice?” or “What color is that juice?” It’s just the intrigued of the colors, also.

JL: Yeah, yeah. Oh, colors! You know, remember the blue spirulina lemonade is so good. Yummy! If you ever wanna put spirulina in your lemonade, ’cause then it’s a beautiful blue color. And then we’ve also done charcoal, activated charcoal, which is great when you’re teen–when you get teenagers, for it clears up your skin a little bit. It’s activated charcoal is really great to pull toxins out of the body. And a lot of times I take, if I eat something that doesn’t sit right, you can take it and that kind of soaks it all up and then you get rid of it, so.

EM: Okay.

JL: So you can get black and blue, and yellow and red.

EM:Interesting.

JL: All kinds of things.

EM: Oh, okay. I will try those things, also.

JL: Yeah. Yeah. Okay, we’re almost done. Is there anything else that you’d like to share?

EM: The almond milk, it’s a very interesting one. My wife actually just drinks almond milk, and we’ve been actually looking at that. Probably going forward with the almond milk soon.

JL: Yeah.

EM: But I think from any other juices, how I’ve seen it, I think this will have like the biggest yield with it. ‘Cause I’ve seen other juices that you just put everything out, just come out on the other side. But I haven’t really seen it personally, or kind of noticed it correctly. So that’s something that we are gonna try.

JL: It’s really great. I just talked to a friend today who said she used to just make it by hand. She said she literally makes twice as much with the same recipe, using the press.

EM: Right. Yeah. Crazy.

JL: And you know, I just did the one where we did the strawberries, so you can just press the strawberries separate. You can press blueberries separate. You can press beets separate as well. So just know that you can make straight up almond milk and then you can have little shots to like add to the milk.

EM: Cool.

JL: If you wanna add those varieties. And talk about fun options for color. You’ve got pink, you’ve got purple. You’ve got, you know, any kind of color. I’m sure you can make a green one too. But, I mean there’s so many different options.

EM:That’s right.

JL: And it’s nice, ’cause you know, there’s no preservatives or anything. And almond milk froths quite well, so, yeah.

EM: Ah, exactly.

JL: And the other thing, I dunno if you saw that, but you can make your own peanut butter. And for kids, and like different nut butters. You can make almond butter and just run it through the feed shoots using a four grid, and it’s the best nut butter you’ve ever had.

EM: Mm, I will try that too. My kids actually like peanut butter, but I haven’t tried it yet.

JL: Yeah, yeah. There’s a video on Instagram on that, so. Is there any way, would you like to share your business? Maybe your social handle? Or a website or anything, that we can, if people wanna connect with you and order juices, or follow your social media, what would you like folks to do, if they wanna contact you?

EM: For now it’s on Instagram, at the moment.

JL: Okay.

EM: At Let’s Smash at, Let’s Smash For Juice.

JL: Okay, okay. Is there anything else that I might have missed?

EM: Those who are on the sidelines thinking about juicing, I’ll say just go for it. It’s something that’ll probably change your life, one way or another. ‘Cause it has changed my way of thinking and consuming fruits and vegetables, from, ever since I started seeing, working with PURE Juicer. 

And if my kids see them, and they’ll be tasting this for while we still are juicing, and if they start drinking something else from the streets, or from the, I’ll say from the gas station or anywhere, they’ll be like, “Oh, this doesn’t taste great. I want my juice.” I think that’s, that’s where this ultimatum was. I hope that it happens though.

JL: It will. It will. You are setting such a phenomenal example. It’s just such a pleasure to meet you in person. Thank you so much for your time. And, all right. Well, Eduardo, thank you so much. Please tell Bellen thank you so much for your time too, and you guys are amazing.

EM: Yeah. She’s over there.

JL: Yeah, good.

EM: Awesome, thank you.

JL: Awesome. Well, happy juicing to you!

EM: Thank you, you too.

JL: Take care.