Juicing is here to stay, but it is an evolving science. It seems that the louder adherents and advocates of juicing become, the louder the naysayers and critics sound.

There are some definite things you should—and should not—do if you decide to begin juicing. They will make all the difference in your success, or lack of success.

They are divided here into five sections: general, health, weight control, financial and social. Take them with a grain of salt and use what you can in your own juicing adventure.

JUICING IN GENERAL:

• DO plan for where and when you will make juice.
• DO plan for carrying and storing your juice away from home, if applicable.
• DO wash all produce.
• DO peel all non-organic produce.
• DO clean up after yourself every time you clean and prepare fruits and vegetables.
• DO dissemble and wash—or at least soak—your juice machine after every production.
• DON’T add too many strong/bitter greens to your juices. Get used to how much they can affect the taste and your enjoyment of your juices. Same goes for onion and garlic.
• DO aim for a ratio of 4:2 green (vegetable) to pink (fruit) for your juices.
• DO keep a notebook of the combinations that you like the best (and least)! This will help when planning your grocery shopping lists.

HEALTH:

• DO have a plan for your juicing. Study the best practices so you can go into it with a chance for success.
• DO know what particular vegetables, fruits and greens will best work with any health issues you may have.
• DO plan for balance and variety, both for health as well as to keep yourself interested in your juicing.
• DON’T stop taking any prescription medicines.
• DO consult with your doctor if you take medications that could be affected by concentrated amounts of foods such as grapefruit or broccoli. (When in doubt, DO ask.)
• DO be careful if you have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Stick with low-sugar fruit like lemon, lime, cranberries and rhubarb.

WEIGHT CONTROL:

• DO understand what you are getting into, if you decide to do a juice fast.
• DO plan your juice fast by taking into consideration your work schedule, family obligations, and travel plans.
• DO allow yourself to transition into your juice fast and plan to transition out of it.
• DO think about the food/eating plan you will follow once your official juice fast has ended.
• DON’T look at your fast as a “once-and-done,” or the weight you lost will come back overnight.
• DO use your newly-awakened taste buds’ excitement to propel yourself into a lifestyle that includes enjoying and exploring lots more fruits and vegetables.

FINANCIAL:

• DO look at your budget and make an informed decision about the juice machine you will buy.
• DO understand that the volume of produce you will buy is much more than you are used to.
• DO expect to have larger than normal grocery bills for the short term, at least.
• DO plan to shop for smaller size clothing in a few months if you keep to your healthy lifestyle!

SOCIAL:

• DO realize that some people will criticize you for juicing, especially if you are juice fasting.
• DON’T try to convert others to your new way of life. Let your results speak for themselves.
• DON’T find yourself unprepared for how to eat at business luncheons or travel.
• DO offer to let family members try your juice combinations. It’s fun!
• DO keep an optimistic attitude. Remember your original goal, whether it was for general health, specific issues, or weight control.

FINALLY:

DO applaud yourself for taking positive steps for your life. Congratulations!