JUICES VS SMOOTHIES: WHICH IS THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU?
Both juices and smoothies are excellent foods for any healthy diet. Both support the immune system, promote detoxification of the body, and are rich in nutrients. However, although many people use these two terms as synonyms, it turns out that the preparation and composition of each one turns them (in a certain way) into opposite poles. But then, what makes them so equal and so different at the same time? What are the specific benefits of each one? And which is the best option for you? Well, don't worry, you ask, and I answer! Below I share a small comparison between the two drinks, so that you understand their similarities, differences and choose the one that best meets your needs.
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JUICE |
SMOOTHIE |
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PREPARATION |
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To make juice, you will need a juicer. |
To prepare a smoothie you need a blender. |
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COMPOSITION |
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The juice is just liquid. Juicing removes the pulp and all insoluble fibers from the selected foods. |
You preserve and combine all the parts of the selected foods, thus obtaining a dense and voluminous drink. |
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NUTRITIONAL VALUE |
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The juice contains large proportions of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, among other nutrients of plant and fruit origin. |
Smoothies, in addition to containing vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, are also full of fiber, and depending on the ingredients you add, they can have high amounts of protein and healthy fatty acids. |
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PROS |
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- By eliminating insoluble fibers, it doesn't take long for the body to digest and absorb the juice. In that sense, the nutrients found in the liquid reach the bloodstream in a matter of seconds, as if it were an injection of energy. - It is a healthy and easy way to increase your intake of vegetables and fruits, and ensure that their nutrients are not lacking in your daily diet. |
- The fibers present in smoothies make this drink less easy to digest and create a slow, but sustained, process of absorption and release of nutrients. In this way, smoothies leave a feeling of greater satiety, which helps calm hunger and cravings between meals. - Your ingredients do not have to be limited to fruits and vegetables. You can add almost any food you want: nuts, seeds, yogurt, or even protein powder. |
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CONS |
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- Juices tend to be more expensive because you need a larger amount of products per serving. With the amount of food you use for 1 glass of juice, you can make 3 smoothies. - Blood sugar levels may spike as nutrients (including glucose) are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. To avoid this I always suggest that the juice contains a greater amount of vegetables than fruits. |
- Some nutrients can adhere to the indigestible fibers that are present in smoothies; This makes their absorption difficult, and therefore, the body does not end up receiving them. |
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WHAT IS THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU? |
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- The juice is better for people with digestive problems or who are looking for a low-fiber diet. - If you are looking for an energy boost or want to speed up your recovery process when you feel sick, I recommend drinking juice for its rapid absorption and release of nutrients. |
- If you are looking to replace a meal or control cravings/hunger, a smoothie is ideal. - If you want more variety of foods in your drink. |
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MY FAVORITE RECIPES |
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This recipe is perfect for cleansing and detoxifying the body: Ingredients: 1 cup spinach 2 stalks of celery 1/2 lemon 1/2 inch ginger root |
The best anti-aging smoothie : Ingredients : 1/2 cup almond milk 1/2 cup blueberries 1 cup of strawberries 1/2 banana Stevia |
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