Roitfeld Beauty Secret: Jus De Julia
mercredi 2 mars 2011 
Merci mille fois to Milla Msa, editor-at-large in Paris, for her superb contribution today in which she explores one of Julia Restoin-Roitfeld's secrets to beauty — her daily ritual of fresh apple, carrot, and ginger juice.
Roitfeld Beauty Secret: Jus De Julia
By Milla Msa
Luminous skin and luscious hair are just two of the healthful benefits that Julia Restoin-Roitfeld derives from her favorite morning beverage of freshly juiced apples, carrots, and ginger. Not only is this concoction absolutely delicious and sweet, it is booming with nutrients.
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene which offers vital protection against heart disease and cancer; although not a vitamin in its own right, our bodies convert beta-carotene into vitamin A which is essential for our skin, growth cells, and, of course, vision.
One thing Julia and I have in common is her use of ginger, which is a staple in my household. Not only does it taste divine, ginger contains both gingerol and zingiberene which are known to improve circulation. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and therefore a wonderful spot-fighting ingredient, as well as being an antiseptic, which means it fights the bacteria that causes spots. The ancient Greeks used ginger as an antidote to poisoning, whilst medieval herbalists and many nutritionists today believe in the warming properties ginger offers. Now we understand Julia's skin a bit better...
You know the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” right? In looking at Julia, clearly the humble apple is doing more. According to studies conducted by scientists at Cornell University, eating just 100 grams (or approximately 3.5 ounces) of apple per day provides an antioxidant effect equivalent to taking some 1,500 mg of vitamin C. Given that antioxidants are said to protect against cancer, I suggest we all get juicing! Who said healthy couldn't be delicious?
It is my belief that no home should be without a juicer. This is one of those kitchen appliances you should invest in — spend as much money as you can afford to. My experience is that the cheaper versions produce juice which tastes rather watery. [Editor's note: I am very happy with the Breville BJE200XL 700-Watt Compact Juice Fountain.]
It is so simple to get started: if you buy organic, just wash and juice. If not, top and tail the carrots but skins are to be left on as they hold many nutrients as well. I use six medium sized carrots, one large green Granny Smith apple, and a slice of ginger approximately one inch thick which makes it very spicy so be warned. I suggest people start small with the ginger because it is very strong. Personally I never peel the apple or remove the core, just wash, chop, juice, and drink. The perfect start to any day.
My favorite juicing book, Super Juice by Michael Van Straten, discusses concepts such as simply washing the fruits and vegetables without removing the skin. I recommend this book if you are interested in juicing.
Apple, carrot, and ginger photograph courtesy of foodthinkers.com.
Julia Restoin-Roitfeld in Beauty Secrets, Milla Msa 
