JUICING VS BLENDING
Juicing vs blending. Which is better for you? Which is healthier for you? Which is easier? These are questions for the ages. And the short answer is both!
The differences are clear and distinct. One has pulp, one doesn’t. One is easier to clean than the other. Both have health advantages that should be taken advantage of.
JUICING
Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed to nourish the human body. Juicing extracts these vitamins and micronutrients delivering them in a concentrated and nutrient dense form that is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect upon blood sugar.
Fruit and vegetable juices retain most of the vitamins and phytonutrients that are found in the whole versions of those foods. These nutrients help protect against cardiovascular disease, cancer and various inflammatory diseases. Valuable compounds called flavonoids are abundant in a variety of fruits and vegetables and guard against oxidative cell damage.
Juicing allows you to consume an optimal amount of fruits and vegetables in an efficient manner and are naturally low in toxic fats, added sugars and salt. Juicing is an easy way to add fresh fruits and veggies to your diet. Juicing extracts juice from the fruits and vegetables and leaves the pulp behind. The benefits of juicing are many. Vitamins and minerals are instantly absorbed into the bloodstream. Juices are easy to digest and provide an opportunity to consume larger amounts of fruits and vegetables in a nutrient dense concentrated form.
JUICE RECIPES
BLENDING
A smoothie is a thick, creamy blended beverage with shake like consistency, usually pureed in a blender. Smoothies are very versatile in that there is no right or wrong way to make them. They can be completely customized to satisfy one’s personal taste and nutritional needs.
Smoothies consist of three main parts. Some type of liquid, an assortment of fruits and/or vegetables, and ice. If frozen fruit or vegetables are used, the cool temperature can be achieved without using ice. The thickness of a smoothie is determined by the ratio of liquids to solids, so to thicken any smoothie recipe you can generally reduce the amount of added liquid.
Blending is different from juicing in that it leaves in all the fiber. Blending pulverizes all the produce to make a smoothie leaving no leftover pulp. The fruits and veggies are whirled and pureed into a thick smooth concoction with all the gut-friendly fiber included. The fiber ensures a slow and steady absorption of sugar into your bloodstream.
Smoothies can help you feel fuller longer. The protein, fiber, healthy fats and complex carbs create sustainable energy. Fill your smoothies with nutrient-packed ingredients and they can serve as well-rounded and convenient meals. Have one to start your day, as a midday snack or refuel post workout. They are ready in no time and involve minimal clean up after.
SMOOTHIE RECIPES
JUICER RECOMMENDATION
Omega VRT350 Masticating Juicer
On AMAZON’S CHOICE list, it’s durable, easy to clean and well made. It produces delicious juice day in and day out.
BLENDER RECOMMENDATION
NINJA PRO COMPACT 900 WATT BLENDER
This is the best blender on the market! Powerful 900 watt motor breaks down whole foods, vegetables, ice, and seeds with ease.
GET INSPIRED
REAL MEN JUICING documents the personal struggle of Chad and Kenny as they work to overcome their own fears and habits in an effort to adopt a healthy new lifestyle.
They haven’t always been overweight, but years of unhealthy eating have finally caught up with them. Diet after diet have failed, leaving them frustrated and confused. Can Chad and Kenny survive going from fast food to fresh juice?
Juicing is the train that drives the film, but other themes such as male body image, plant based nutrition, exercise and wellness are also explored. Juicing also puts them at an interesting juxtaposition where conflict, change and habit really highlight the inner struggles they are dealing with.
The film includes facts on juicing, the personal struggles of the main two characters as well as interviews from leading medical professionals.
