As I understand (I'm a new member), all ingredients put in a nutribullett should be raw, is that so? Some people says that cooked vegetables are more digestible and releases more healthyb ingredients (like carrots). Would it be enough to eat the vegetables raw, or should we eat some raw and some cooked? Could you relieve me of this confussion?

I am actually writing an article about this topic to be posted soon! In the meantime, you are correct, it is important to get a variety of cooked and raw foods. Most foods when cooked, except for a few, lose valuable nutrients when heated beyond a certain temperature (around 118 degrees F). Carrots and tomatoes are a couple that actually have a few phytonutrients (mostly carotenoids) enhanced. There are charts online that show how various foods are affected by different cooking methods. In addition, some people need a little help breaking down their food and therefore cooking is easier on their digestion. You've also got raw foodists on the other side claiming that the enzymes in raw foods help with digestion (this is a continuing debate and needs to be further researched). Raw foods do contain enzymes, however the Q is do these actually survive in the digestive tract in high enough amounts to positively influence human health. We shall eventually find out hopefully! It is up to you if you'd like to use raw or cooked or a combination of the two. The NutriBullet can handle both. I particularly like steamed beets vs. the raw.

When using beet roots in receipes, do you need to cook them or can they be used raw? With skin or without? and if you need to cook them how long before using them? I use the beet greens in my daily drink, but I'm left with all of the beet roots. Since I'm not a fan of cooked beets would love to put them to use instead of throwing them out... Suggestions welcome!

Thanks so much!

I actually think steamed beets are less "earthy" tasting than raw, however you can use both in the NutriBullet. Simply scrub off the dirt and slice into smaller cubes or circle slices. I'm actually not quite sure how long it takes to steam a beet because I've never timed it...I just steam it until fork tender...I'm assuming it's somewhat like a sweet potato - about 10 minutes or so. You could also try to roast them and add them to a salad! You're right in that these do have a strong flavor...so the key may just be what you mix it with. I find raw cacao an excellent combination!

Roasted beets are phenomenal--roast them in a hot oven rubbed with olive oil until fork-tender. The flavor is really heightened through this method, which is a great thing for those of us who are down with beets in general.