One of our most commonly asked questions: Is it better to juice or to blend? As with most good questions in life the answer to this depends upon numerous factors and there is no black or white. As the saying goes – it’s like comparing apples to oranges.
JUICING
- Juicing renders densely concentrated nutrients that are easily digested. You are able to literally mainline all of the phyto anthocyanins, minerals and micronutrients that plants have to offer.
- Because of this infusion capacity juicing is the absolute best way to receive a mega dose of food-based vitamins, minerals and enzymes IF they are non-sweet. When sweet veggies and fruits are stripped of fibers, healthy toddy’s become agents of blood sugar irregularity leading to energy crashes and increased cravings.
- Veggies, herbs and roots we recommend juicing: Celery, Cucumbers, Cilantro, Parsley, Ginger, Turmeric, Jalapenos (if you’re not Nightshade sensitive) and Leafy Greens such as Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard (if you’re not suffering from hypothyroidism).
- Tip: If you wish to sweeten up your green juice, add just one carrot rather than an entire base of carrot, OR eat some protein along with your carrot juice. Hemp or Chia Seeds are a perfect antidote. Happy Hemp is our personal fave.
- Juicing is also preferable if you’re someone whose digestive system has a harder time with fibrous roughage.
- Since juice is less filling than a blended drink, it’s easier to drink copious amounts and to therefore crank up the wattage on your nutrients.
BLENDING
- Since blending retains fiber, opt to blend when using sweeter veggies such as carrots and beets or when mixing fruits. Though this will still spike blood sugar, its effects are less intense As mentioned above, you can help to counteract the blood sugar spiking effects by adding a protein boost
- Looking for a healthy meal replacement? Blending might be a good option, especially in the summer months or in warmer climates when the digestive system is more capable of processing cooler, richer drinks.
- Some constitutions are sensitive to food combining principles or have more sensitive digestive systems. If this is you, experiment and attune to the following signals to find out if your body appreciates blending: How are your cravings during the day? Energy levels? Are you experiencing afternoon crashes or holding strong? How about your digestion?
- If you have a strong digestive system, follow our Green Smoothie Equation below or check out our downloadable Green Smoothie Guide + Recipes here.