When you start juicing, use vegetables that you like, possibly carrots, celery and cucumber. Later, begin incorporating vegetables that are new to you or that you may be less fond of, such as kale and beets.

While sweet fruit juice is a delicious treat, most fruit contains a fair amount of sugar, so use fruit juices sparingly to keep calorie and sugar content in check. Choose fruits that contain a large amount of water, such as watermelon, and fruits that are less sweet, such as pomegranate, for optimum benefits.

- Drink juice on an empty stomach for optimum absorption and health benefits.

- Ginger is a delicious addition to almost any juice and will aid digestion, stimulate circulation and balance blood sugar. Researchers at the American Heart Association and U.S. Food and Drug Administration have found that ginger can dramatically affect cardiovascular health, helping to prevent atherosclerosis, lower cholesterol levels and inhibit oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, aka bad cholesterol).

- Whenever possible, use organically grown produce to prepare juices and prevent chemical residues from ending up in the drink. If organic produce is not available, peel or thoroughly wash produce using a vegetable brush to remove wax coating and reduce chemical residues.

- Drink juice that’s as fresh as possible to retain and obtain the peak of nutritional benefits. If you need to store fresh juice, use a narrow- necked glass bottle to reduce its exposure to oxygen, which over time, breaks down delicate, vital nutrients.