There’s quite a lot of confusion about the difference between juices and smoothies and which is actually better for you. Remember it’s well worth making your own because shop bought ones often aren’t as good for you with many brands still loading them with extra sugar. Homemade juices and smoothies are both healthy but can contain vastly different ingredients and nutrients. Read on to have any confusion you might have cleared up on Juices V Smoothies!
1. The obvious difference between smoothies and juices are their consistencies
Smoothies are thicker because the fibre of the fruit is more intact and they’re made with milk or yogurt. When juicing the pulp is removed, so smoothies have more fibre content than juices. Because of this they will keep you fuller for longer and are good for your gut health.
2. Smoothies are made mostly with fruits whereas juices tend to be made with vegetables
I’m sure you’ve seen the famous green juice on Instagram that looks super healthy (and no, it won’t turn you into the Hulk in case you’re wondering) but unfortunately, it’s not very tasty to most of us! So if you have a sweet tooth then smoothies are for you, but otherwise juices can be made with everything from carrots to celery so that you can get a wide variety of vitamins in your diet.
3. If you want an extra health boost then smoothies are really handy
You can add pretty much anything you like, for example chia seeds, maca powder, kefir or avocado. You can add these supplements for extra omega 3’s, fibre and protein, or add oats to make a breakfast smoothie.
4. If you’re trying to lose weight then be aware that smoothies tend to be higher in calories
This is because of the added yogurt or milk. If weight loss is your goal don’t use high-calorie foods like avocados, bananas and nut butters. But if you’re less focused on losing weight and more on feeling fantastic, then add those ingredients for extra good fats in your diet.
5. Juices don’t have as much fibre but are still packed with nutrients
If you make fruit juice the sugar will absorb into your bloodstream quicker in the form of liquid and spike your blood sugar levels, which isn’t the best scenario. That’s why it’s best to stick to vegetables if you want to juice and if you add apple (like the ‘Pink Lady’ variety for example) you’re less likely to taste the vegetables.
Whether you have smoothies or juices you’ll be doing your body the world of good, even if you make a rule of having them twice a week rather than every day. It’s completely up to you, but if you make a plan and stick to it you’ll feel amazing! Check out our previous article on the Top 10 Best Smoothies and have fun making your own creations too!
