Juicing and smoothies have been a hot topic for the last couple of years. EatingWell’s nutrition editor, Brierley Wright, M.S., R.D., was asked the question, “Which is healthier juicing or making smoothies?”
The question peaked my interest since I have juiced for more than a year and a half—–and have always enjoyed smoothies throughout the spring and summer months! A few key points from her response—-and if you are wondering, she says that smoothies are the better choice (because of the pulp left behind for our bodies to digest):
- Both boost your fruit & vegetable intake
- Pulp in smoothies contain fiber & nutrients
- Boosts vitamins & minerals
- Skins left intact deliver phytochemicals
- Smoothies may included added calcium—if milk/yogurt are added
- Smoothies can turn into high calorie drinks if they included sweetened additives from yogurts, juices, etc. (Beware of made-to-order & bottled smoothies that you buy while you are away from your house…)
Wright’s bottom line: “DIY smoothies reign supreme—you know what you’re getting or, for that matter not getting. But they are no substitute for whole fruits and vegetables in your diet because it’s easier to take in more calories when you drink instead of eat them. Thus, the Produce for Better Health Foundation recommends no more than 8 to 12 ounces of blended or juiced produce daily.”
What’s my personal take? I (Litsa) believe that we should follow these guidelines in addition to listening to our own bodies. Your personal fitness level and schedule throughout the day will help you regulate how much food to take in whether it is in the form of juice, a smoothie, and/or whole foods. Personally, I take in more than 12 ounces of diy juice/smoothie on an average day but my body desires the added whole foods too. Thus, I eat and juice daily. I don’t skip meals but when I want a few more calories I do reach for a second juice and/or smoothie (but do note that I create my own recipes with whole fruits/vegetables). I’m always disappointed to find a recipe that calls for apple juice (from a plastic bottle)—-I was even served a juice that was made to order with juice from a jar!?!
Whole apples for me please, regardless if I order a juice or a smoothie!
Thank you to Eating Well for addressing this hot topic while juices/smoothies are all the rage!
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