Juicing and blending each provide different health benefits directly related to the way the fruits and vegetables are processed.
Juicing – the process of extracting water and nutrients - removes the indigestible fiber, or pulp, from fruits and vegetables. Without this fiber the body doesn’t have to work as hard to break down food, making the nutrients easily absorbed and readily available. Because they restore the body at a cellular level, juices are often used for healing and detoxification.
It is important to note that when fiber is removed from product, the liquid juice is absorbed into the bloodstream quickly. This could cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. Avoid tropical fruit; use green apples, which are low in sugar, and aim for 80% organic raw green veggies.
Smoothies, on the other hand, are composed of the entire fruit or vegetable, including the fiber - they are made by pulverizing the ingredients in a blender. Because the fiber is retained, nutrients are released slowly and evenly into the blood stream creating a feeling of fullness. Nuts, nut butters and superfood powders can be included for additional energy.
When concocting a smoothie, try to focus more on green vegetables than fruit. Aim more towards making a portable meal than a dessert.
Try to experiment with both these methods to see what works for you – it may be just one or a combination of both. Your preferences may vary depending on the state of your health or even the seasons – discover what is right for your body.
Juicing – the process of extracting water and nutrients - removes the indigestible fiber, or pulp, from fruits and vegetables. Without this fiber the body doesn’t have to work as hard to break down food, making the nutrients easily absorbed and readily available. Because they restore the body at a cellular level, juices are often used for healing and detoxification.
It is important to note that when fiber is removed from product, the liquid juice is absorbed into the bloodstream quickly. This could cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. Avoid tropical fruit; use green apples, which are low in sugar, and aim for 80% organic raw green veggies.
Smoothies, on the other hand, are composed of the entire fruit or vegetable, including the fiber - they are made by pulverizing the ingredients in a blender. Because the fiber is retained, nutrients are released slowly and evenly into the blood stream creating a feeling of fullness. Nuts, nut butters and superfood powders can be included for additional energy.
When concocting a smoothie, try to focus more on green vegetables than fruit. Aim more towards making a portable meal than a dessert.
Try to experiment with both these methods to see what works for you – it may be just one or a combination of both. Your preferences may vary depending on the state of your health or even the seasons – discover what is right for your body.