Are wellness shots actually healthy?

Wellness shots, also known as cold-pressed juices, have become increasingly popular in recent years. Marketed as an easy and nutritious way to get a concentrated dose of fruits and vegetables, wellness shots promise a myriad of health benefits. But are they really as healthy as claimed? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of wellness shots.

What are Wellness Shots?

Wellness shots are typically 2-4 ounces of cold-pressed, raw juice. Unlike traditional juices which may use heat and oxidation in processing, cold-pressing uses high pressure to extract juice from fresh fruits and vegetables. This preserves more nutrients compared to traditional juicing methods. Wellness shots emphasize ingredients perceived as “superfoods” like ginger, turmeric, wheatgrass, spirulina, and chlorella.

Common Ingredients in Wellness Shots

Some of the most popular ingredients found in wellness shots include:

Ingredient	Description	Potential Benefits
Wheatgrass	Juice made from wheat sprouts	High in antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin A, iron
Turmeric	Bright yellow spice, main component is curcumin	Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
Ginger	Pungent, spicy root	Reduce nausea, aid digestion
Cayenne	Spicy chili pepper	Anti-irritant, circulation support
Spirulina	Blue-green algae	Protein, antioxidants, vitamin B12
Chlorella	Green algae	Protein, chlorophyll, vitamin B12
Apple Cider Vinegar	Fermented apple juice	Digestion aid, alkalizing
Lemon	Sour citrus fruit	Vitamin C, immune support

Potential Benefits of Wellness Shots

There are several touted benefits of incorporating wellness shots into your diet:

• Nutrient density – Since wellness shots use concentrated juices, they contain a dense amount of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from whole fruits and vegetables. This can help increase your daily nutrient intake.
• Antioxidants – Many popular wellness shot ingredients like wheatgrass, turmeric, and ginger contain antioxidants which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
• Digestion support – The combination of juices along with ingredients like apple cider vinegar and ginger may support digestion and improve gut health.
• Energy boost – Some shots contain metabolism-boosting spices like cayenne and black pepper to provide a quick energy lift.
• Hydration – Although small, wellness shots are mostly water which can help with hydration, especially first thing in the morning.
• Convenience – Shots are quick and portable, making it easy to get a dose of veggies on-the-go.

Downsides of Wellness Shots

Despite the upsides, there are some potential downsides to consider:

• High in sugar – To counterbalance the strong flavors, many shots have added juices like apple, orange, pineapple which increases the sugar content.
• Lack of fiber – Juicing removes all the beneficial fiber from whole fruits and vegetables.
• Not a substitute for produce – Shots shouldn’t replace eating a diet high in fresh produce which provides more complete nutrition.
• Processed ingredients – Some shots use processed supplements like spirulina and chlorella instead of real food sources.
• Cost – Pre-made shots can be expensive, ranging from $3-10 each.
• Possible drug interactions – Ingredients like turmeric may interact with certain medications like blood thinners.

Are Wellness Shots Right for You?

Wellness shots can be a convenient way to increase nutrient intake throughout the day. However, consider your specific health goals and needs before incorporating them long-term.

Wellness shots may be beneficial if you:

• – Struggle to eat enough fruits and vegetables
• – Need an occasional energy boost or pick-me-up
• – Want to reduce inflammation
• – Have occasional digestive issues
• – Are looking for simple ways to upgrade your nutrition

You may want to avoid shots if you:

• – Already eat plenty of fresh produce
• – Need to watch your sugar intake
• – Are taking blood thinners or certain medications
• – Have issues with oxalates like kidney stones
• – Are watching your budget

Pregnant women should also use caution and consult their doctor before regularly consuming shots with ingredients like wheatgrass, ginger, and turmeric.

Making Your Own Wellness Shots at Home

Want to get in on the wellness shot trend but don’t want to spend a fortune? Luckily, it’s easy to make your own custom blends at home. Here are some tips:

• – Invest in a good quality cold press juicer like a vertical masticating juicer.
• – Choose fresh, organic produce whenever possible.
• – Mix and match fruit and vegetable combinations catered to your needs.
• – Start with a base of milder juices like apple, carrot or cucumber to cut bitter flavors.
• – Add just small amounts of strong ingredients like ginger, turmeric, or cayenne.
• – Finish with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to help preserve.
• – Drink shots immediately or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Here are some easy shot recipe ideas to try at home:

Everyday Wellness Shot

1/2 lemon, juiced
1 inch knob ginger
1 inch knob turmeric

Pinch cayenne
Apple juice

Wake Up Shot

1 orange, juiced
2 carrots, juiced
1⁄2 lemon, juiced
Small handful spinach

Green Detox Shot

1 cucumber
1 cup kale
1⁄2 lemon
Pinch spirulina

Apple juice

Anti-Inflammatory Shot

1 beet, juiced
1 inch ginger

1⁄2 lemon
1⁄2 teaspoon turmeric
Pineapple juice

The Bottom Line on Wellness Shots

When consumed in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet, wellness shots can be a convenient way to flood your body with extra nutrients, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Focus on quality ingredients and avoid shots with added sweeteners or artificial supplements when possible.

However, wellness shots are no “magic bullet” for good health on their own. They are not a replacement for eating a diet focused on whole, minimally processed foods like fruits, veggies, lean proteins, legumes, whole grains and healthy fats.

As with any supplement, speak to your doctor, especially if you take medications or have specific health conditions before making wellness shots a regular habit.