Smoothies Vs. Juice

Some of you have asked us which is better...juicing or smoothie-ing?

The main distinction between the two is the "F" word . . .Fiber.
(You guessed that, right?)

As most of you know, juicing eliminates the pulp (the main source of fiber), which allows the micronutrients (good, dense vitamins and minerals) and phytochemicals (more good plant stuff) of the fruit or vegetable to be very easily absorbed by the stomach and put into the bloodstream quickly.  If an individual is sick, it might be more advantageous to juice in order to speed up the healing process.

Vitamix

However, having pulp in smoothies also has its advantages. Fiber is important for proper digestion.  Also, it makes us fuller faster.  Plus, you're getting all the micronutrients and phytochemicals, too.  You really can't lose either way.

Ultimately, it is a matter of choice and goals.  How do you want the food to work for you?  Is it a meal or  supplement? Medicinal (Though, I'd argue all organic fruits and veggies are medicinal) or Treat? And then there's the all important budget concerns.

The question that might likely proceed is about the equipment. What should you buy--a juicer or blender?  First, I am totally going to sway anyone who asks me about blenders to invest and buy a Vitamix. This thing liquifies wooden blocks. You think I'm joking.  But It's costly--between three to four hundred smackeroos.  Though, consider it a health investment if you are committed to eating a good portion of your food raw. The Vitamix comes with a five year warranty and is VERY easy to use. Also, you can juice with it if you have cheesecloths.




I just purchased two cheesecloths for approximately $5. This allows me to solely utilize my blender (and not have to buy a juicer) so I can strain all the pulp out of the smoothie for a pure juice. It's a marvelous little invention (the cheesecloths) since I can also make my own nut milks and utilize the pulp to make nut cheeses.   In general, pulp is very useful in various recipes.

But if you only have a juicer, great! Use it! The only other problem, though, is that you will likely spend more money on produce if you want to drink a lot of juice, use them as meal replacements or for fasting.  Just something to consider.

Otherwise, it's ALL good!

Juice it or blend it up!