Have you ever wondered if there is a difference in the health benefits between juicing and blending? If you are looking to start doing one of these two healthy options, wouldn’t it be nice to know which is more beneficial to your health before you invest in either a juicer or a blender. So let’s take a look at the differences between the two!
What are the Differences?
The primary difference is that when you juice, you are extracting all of the fluid and nutrients from the fruits or vegetables and discarding all of the fiber. This can be both a good and a bad thing.
The good comes from the fact that the nutrients are more easily absorbed by the body without the fiber. This can be good if you are trying to get a rapid does of nutrient into the body, such as when you are trying to overcome an illness.
The bad part of this is that without the fiber you are losing out on the colon cleansing aspect of fiber. The fiber helps to clean the colon and intestines by gently scrapping the surface and helping to dislodge build up of toxins.
Another aspect that fiber helps with is keeping you feeling full. Without the fiber from your produce, you will become hungry again much sooner than if you had blended it. So for weight loss endeavors blending has the edge.
The Verdict?
If I had to choose only one, I would go with blending. They make you fell fuller for longer and are better for detoxification. However, if you are able to invest in both, each methods have their ideal uses.
A Few Tips for Better Smoothies and Juices:
Don’t overdo the fruit! Too much fruit can lead to blood sugar spikes and weight gain. Instead use mostly vegetables and add in a small amount of fruit for sweetening. Ideally use fruits that are low-glycemic, such as apples, and berries.
Add an antioxidant punch to your smoothies by using fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants such as blueberries, kale, spinach, and blackberries.
Add protein to help keep you fuller, longer. Make sure you are using a clean source of protein and avoid using protein sources that are derived from common allergens such as dairy and soy. Instead I recommend using a vegetable based protein powder such as pea protein.
I hope this has been helpful for you. Please leave any comments or questions below, and happy blending…or juicing!
