Are Juices or Smoothies Better For You?

Smoothies and juices provide large servings of fruit and vegetables without the sit-down meal. You can drink them before you go to work, after you hit the gym, or whenever you need a burst of energy. Some people even make large batches and freeze them for later use.

While some use the terms "juice" and "blend" interchangeably, each beverage has a unique taste, texture, and nutrient profile. Evaluate your needs before you buy a juicer or blender.

Benefits of Juicing

You can juice virtually anything: oranges, grapes, spinach, apples, lemons, and other produce in your fridge. Make a simple beverage, such as orange juice, or blend several ingredients together for a high dose of nutrients. The bright colors make your juice look refreshing and appetizing.

Juice is easier to digest than blends because juicing filters out the pulp and fiber. The remaining liquid offers a higher concentration of vitamins and minerals than the fruit itself. If you're having a meal later, juice refreshes you without making you feel too satiated.

Benefits of Blending

When you blend fruits and vegetables, you get everything, including the pulp and fiber. Pulp in a smoothie isn't like pulp in orange juice--the texture is smooth that you probably won't notice. However, you'll get extra nutrients that you can't get with juice alone. The fiber also improves your digestion and lowers blood sugar levels.

Smoothies are more versatile than juice because you can add extra ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, peanut butter, and protein powder. They're also more filling if you're looking for meal replacements. Juice is better as a side drink that accompanies your whole grains and lean proteins.

Overall, juices and smoothies both provide a quick boost of nutrients throughout the day.