We all want to believe in miracles, right? That there is one magic thing we can eat or drink that will make all of our health problems disappear. Well, it doesnt quite work that way. There is no replacement for a healthy lifestyle that includes a diet of whole, plant-based foods, exercise, and mindfulness practices.

There are, however, certain superhero foods that give us an extra boost. Some combinations can reduce the likelihood of developing cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. As with any other cure, prevention is always the best medicine.

But whether you are perfectly healthy, a little under the weather, or suffering from a debilitating illness, the miracle drink can probably help you.

Carrot, Beet, Apple Juice: Magic in a Glass

Popularly called the Miracle Drink, this concoction does pack a lot of nutrients that combat disease and can make us healthier. It contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K, folate, magnesium, calcium, niacin, zinc, potassium, and manganese.

But even more important than these essential vitamins and minerals are the special micronutrients in this drink.

~ Carotenoids Give carrots and beets their rich colors. Powerful antioxidants that prevent the cellular stress that causes cancer and other diseases. Support the health of the eyes, heart, and lungs. Boost immunity.

~ Betanin, Isobetanin, Vulgaxanthin, and Beta-cryptoxanthin Anti-inflammatory phytonutrients that reduce the likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis and many other diseases. Most of the diseases we develop are caused or worsened by inflammation.

~ Betalain Detoxifies the body, especially the liver.

Other properties of this drink include: Lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, improving eyesight, toning the kidney, liver, and pancreas, strengthening the heart, lowering blood pressure, and boosting immunity.

Reduces the likelihood of developing most cancers due to the combination of potent anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients.

Making the Juice

Play with the formula until you find one that works for you, but this is a good base. Always use organic, washed produce.

1 whole apple, stem removed
1 whole carrot (use a purple carrot if you can find them, more anti-oxidants)
1 whole dark red beet, including root and greens (discard the hard part where the greens meet the root)
1/2 lemon (reduces oxidation and increases detoxification powers)
1 ginger root (optional, aids digestion and increases anti-inflammatory properties)

* Note that drinking beet juice may cause your urine or stool to turn red. This is normal and not something to worry about.

Why I Blend Instead of Juicing

As with most other nutrients, the ones in this drink work the best in their whole forms. There are synergists (nutrients that work together with other nutrients) that get lost with juicing. For example, the pectin fiber in apples helps our bodies absorb some of the vitamins and phytonutrients apples contain.

Also, apple, carrot, and beet juice are all quite high in fructose (sugar), and without the fiber of the whole fruit/vegetable, they can significantly spike blood sugar levels.

While I still enjoy some extracted fresh juice, I also frequently blend whole apples, carrots, beets, ginger, and peeled lemon and drink it like a smoothie. This ensures I get the fiber and other essential nutrients that can get lost juicing, and maintains even blood sugar levels. This works best in high-speed, 3+ horsepower blender.

The true miracle is a diet full of whole plant foods and a healthy lifestyle. But enjoying this power drink can help you live a long and vital life.