Are you ready for everyone’s favorite topic?! Everyone is talking about the difference between juicing and blending. One of my favorite movies I’d like to recommend is “Food Matters.” You’ll be amazed at all there is to learn!

Today, I want to educate and inspire you to learn the benefits of juices and smoothies, too! These drinks are guaranteed to change your life, because they alkalize your body, regenerate your cells, and allow you to consume different fruits and vegetables in an easy to digest form.

Here is a great article explaining the difference between juicing and blending:

http://foodmatters.tv/articles-1/juicing-vs-blending-which-one-is-better

This article mentions the possibility for increased blood sugar when you juice, and this is possible when you’re only juicing fruits. The recipes I have given you are designed to help balance your blood sugar, but again, pay attention to your unique body. You can also reduce unwanted spikes in blood sugar by consuming 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or 1 teaspoon of flax oil when you juice, which will provide the essential fat your body needs for digestion.

When you juice and remove the fiber, the nutrients are absorbed quickly into your body. If you have concerns about blood sugar issues, make sure you choose juices that are green juices and have either carrot or apple to avoid sugar spikes.

Refer to your Recipe Guide under “Liquid Assets” for some tasty juicing recipes. I suggest juicing once a day for a snack or even before bed. There is no right or wrong time to juice!

JUICING 101

Juicing vs. Smoothies (or Blending)

Now, I want you to understand the difference between a juicer and a blender. When you drink a juice, you are drinking it without the pulp and the fiber. You are still getting the beneficial nutrients, but in a very easy-to-digest form. Many people with digestive issues find juices are easier on their body. And, believe it or not, it’s important to chew your juice, as digestion begins in the mouth. Fascinating, right?

Juices are an important part of the detoxification process and, for many, a very effective and easy way to assimilate nutrients that may be difficult to digest otherwise.

As far as blending or using a Vitamix, you are consuming the fiber, the skin, and the pulp to create a slow and even release of the nutrients into your bloodstream.

A special note from me, your health cheerleader:

Some people do better juicing while others thrive on blending.

Take the time during this program to see which one is better for you.

To learn even more about juicing vs. blending, click here:

http://www.drsearswellnessinstitute.org/blog/2012/04/12/juicing-vs-blending/

AND, if you don't have a juicer, you don’t actually have to go out and buy one! 

You can juice using a blender by following these simple steps:

1. Throw in your celery or cucumber and a little water. Blend until it becomes liquid.
2. Add in the rest of your chopped fruits and veggies a little at a time, adding water as needed.
3. Blend.
4. Pour mixture into a cheesecloth and squeeze out the liquid into a large bowl, leaving the pulp behind.
5. Pour juice into a glass and enjoy! 

Lastly, here is another green juice option. This method works wonders to alkalize your body and creates the ideal setting for good bacteria to grow in your digestive system.

Buy some chlorophyll at your local natural foods store (or online) and add 1 tablespoon to 20 ounces of water with lemon. You have just made a healthy at home SUPERFOOD green drink! This drink actually regenerates your cells on a molecular and cellular level.

Happy juicing!

Kat

NOTE: For Vitamix and Blendtec users, you can create a fabulous juice by only using ¼ of the ingredients in the smoothie recipes or you can just add more water. I suggest filling the Vitamix or Blendtec halfway with water or simply refer to your Vitamix or Blendtec Guide for juicing instructions.