I have been juicing for about one year now. My 10 o’clock snack usually consists of vegetable juices that I have combined from my juicer. It looks rather unappetizing as it is green. However, it is packed full of vitamins and nutrients. My co-workers were asking me about this weird concoction I was drinking when it came to my attention that there was confusion over juicing and blending. Both can be vegetable juicing and vegetable blending can be beneficial; but keep in mind that they are different!
Juicing
Juicing involves extracting the juice from the pulp of a vegetable or fruit using a juicer (preferably a masticating juicer). The thought is that the pulp and fiber are not as easily digested by the body. Juicing allows the body to quickly absorb vitamins and minerals since the juice is easily digested. Plus, you are able to get the nutrients from more produce at one time. For instance, you might only be able to eat one whole carrot but with juicing you could easily get in three carrots. This is due to the fact that you are not filling up on the pulp.
Since the juice is quickly absorbed by your body, you don’t want to juice just fruits. This would give your blood stream a sugar spike! The goal is to get in as many vegetables as possible; especially green vegetables.
Blending
Blending is done with a blender and contains the whole fruit or vegetable. Most of the time we refer to blending as smoothies! The blender helps break down the fiber but a smoothie is still going to be more filling than juicing. A smoothie will take a bit longer for your body to digest over a glass of juice. In my experience, most smoothies are made with other ingredients which can add up in calories (i.e. milk, yogurt, ice cream, honey, etc.).
Blending is an easier process with less cleanup than juicing.
Both juicing and blending have their pros and cons. Juicing is going to be more expensive because you need to use more produce. However, for me, juicing makes me feel energized and keeps me healthy! I do enjoy smoothies on occasion as they are really refreshing!
For more information on juicing, checkout my post on what type of juicer to get.
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Solid explanation, Renae. I get the odd question here and there at work about the juice I bring in most days too. I think they’re getting used to me.
Hi Barry,
Thanks for the comment! Yes, my co-workers are getting used to my juice! I finally convinced one co-worker to give a try so I am not the only “weird” one now! Have a good night!