Smoothie versus Juice? The Controversy

Some of the most common questions we get from readers is Buy a Juicer? Or buy a Vitamix? Which is better, smoothies or juicing? And today Meredith Baird and I are here to bust the myths and explain the difference between smoothies versus juice.

Meredith Baird is here sharing her current favorite smoothie recipe, Beyond Beautiful Berry Protein Smoothie, as well as to help clear up the smoothies versus juice debate:

"First off, they are completely different", Meredith says.

Juice is a supplement.

The nutrients absorb easily because there is no fiber to slow them down. Because they absorb so quickly I prefer (and recommend) juices that are very low in fruit and sugar. Generally, juices aren't that filling. 

Smoothies are a meal.

They are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.  Smoothies are a great way to combine fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and proteins for a complete nutrient-dense experience.There is no right way to make a smoothie. Throw ingredients in that make you happy! This is my most frequent (and favorite) combination. You can't go wrong with the combination of berries and spinach- so nutritious! 

Plus, Summer is on its way- and so are amazing smoothies! I don't know about you, but winter makes it really hard for me to get into smoothie mode. It might be because I live in Maine and frozen fruit seems counterintuitive in the winter (as it should!), or perhaps it is nice just to change it up a bit- either way, smoothies are an amazing way to really pack in the nutrition. 

Here is my concoction, try it, and then experiment with your own. 

Other smoothies you might enjoy

Tropical Greens Smoothie

One & A Half Green Smoothie

Creamy Papaya Smoothie

Meredith's Skin Saver Smoothie

Beyond Beautiful Berry Protein Smoothie Recipe

Serves 2 Large Smoothies 

INGREDIENTS

2-3 Cups Frozen (or fresh) Berries - I always make sure that some blueberries make there way in! 
1 Young Coconut- Meat and Water 
1 Cup Brazil Nut Milk (or Nut Milk of your choice) 
2 Cups Spinach 

SUPPLEMENTS

• Beaming Protein Powder - This is a proprietary blend of vegan protein made by or friends and colleagues at the Be Beaming cleanse squad in San Diego. I am LOVING it. 
• 1 Scoop Green Vibrance 
• 1 tablespoon Coconut Butter
• Bee Pollen- *I like Bee Pollen on mine 

*If you like it sweeter, add a date or a few drops of stevia. 

DIRECTIONS

Throw all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth! (It helps if you put the spinach and liquid in first!) 

Sip, Relax and Enjoy!