JUICING AND BLENDING- WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
Drinking vegetables is an easy and efficient way to supercharge your diet. Homemade vegetable smoothies and juices are a great addition to any diet. This is a cheaper, healthier (you control ingredients and portions), and more environmentally friendly than purchasing at juice shops. I am often asked which is best: to juice or blend. What’s better to buy; a juicer or a blender? It’s important to state here that they’re both healthful options, and you can’t really go wrong with either one. In both cases, you’re taking control of your health and introducing more greens into your life. You’ll see the benefits. However, one might be better suited for your needs. I've broken down the differences below to help you decide! I myself use both because their benefits are so varied.
Blender
Pros:
-You don't need to buy as many vegetables, making this a cheaper option.
-Can usually make due with leftover veggies in your refrigerator.
-Keeps you full since you don’t lose the fiber.
-Good for weight management.
-Generally less calories than juice, since you use fewer vegetables.
-Feeds the beneficial bacteria in your intestines.
-Supports colon health and keeps things "moving".
Cons:
-Not as nutrient-dense compared to juice.
I LOVE my Vitamix and it's hands down the best blender on the market. It's great for vegetable/ fruit smoothies, protein shakes and soups! I make a lot of green smoothies because it helps keep me full and “regular”. Costco has great deals on Vitamix's, or you can use BB&B coupons. I suggest finding a deal because they can get kind of pricey! I like the Vitamix 7500 model. It has preset speeds, so you can choose a "smoothie" or "soup" setting that will run automatically and stop on it's own. I tend to make smoothies more often than juice because it’s easier. A quick veggie/ fruit shake is a great way to start the day!
Juicer
Pros:
-Juice has the highest content of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and antioxidants.
-Easy way to get the health support of a TON of vegetables without having to eat so many in a day.
-Very beneficial to those that have a compromised immune system or for someone lacking nutrient dense foods in their diet.
Cons:
-Juice lacks fiber, which is useful for regularity and satiety (feeling full).
-The process of juicing is labor intensive!
-More expensive than smoothies.
I like a slow juicer (cold press) as opposed to a centrifugal one because it masticates (chews) vegetables. It doesn't heat the juice as centrifugal juicer do. Heating the juice oxidizes the nutrients, making them inactive. It takes a little longer to use a slow juicer compared to centrifugal ones: they’re slow. Slow juicers tend to be a little more sensitive, but it's worth it. The juice tastes better, lasts longer (keeps in the fridge for 2-3 days) and is much more nutrient dense. I like to make the juicing experience meditative because it is a bit of a process! The Omega Nutrition Center Masticating Slow Juice Extractor is known to be the best and is my all time juicing favorite. You can use Bed Bath and Beyond coupons!
