After the post about debunking myths, I got a few questions on other platforms about juicing as a means to weight loss and a sort of fall-reset.

Let’s start with defining “juicing.”

Juicing is a process that extracts the juices from fresh fruits and vegetables.

Why “juice”?

Juicing has been said to boost your immune system, help with weight loss, lower your risk for cancer and other health issues, and provide balance to your digestive system.

Drinking fresh, pure fruit juices also provides phytonutrients, which are powerful nutrients that increase the strength of your immune system.

Some people choose to replace meals with juice in order to lose weight.

But here is the thing – all of those nutrients that you are getting from juicing are the exact same nutrients that you would be getting if you ate the fruit whole.

And a major con of juicing (aside from the work, clean-up and large amounts of fruit you would have to buy) is that you don’t consume the fruit skin, which is where all of the fiber is held. So by juicing, you are actually losing some of the benefits of eating the fruit.

Fiber plays a key role in weight loss – so if you are juicing to lose weight but missing out on the fiber, it is a little counter intuitive.

A great alternative would be to blend your fruit. There are some juices/cleanses that you can purchase nowadays that are whole-fruit juices too. They are better and way more pricier. For me and my money (and, quite honestly, my satiety), clean, whole foods are the way to go.

Plus, you can throw in some protein or fat for a balanced meal versus an all-carbohydrate fruit juice (because fruit is a carbohydrate) – that will likely leave you hungry short after!.

That being said, sometimes it is easier to grab a drink and go!

So, is juicing worth it?

As with all things – in nutrition and life – there are varying theories.

Based on the loss of fiber (a necessary part of your diet) when juicing and the fact that you can get all of the same nutrients from eating fruit – juicing might seem like a lot of work for a lesser effect.

If you feel you are not able to eat enough fruits and vegetables throughout the day, juicing may help you get those important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

But if you are using juicing as a means to lose weight or in an attempt to get all that you can from fruit, eating or blending whole fruit is the better alternative. Stay tuned for a post about apples-a fabulous, fall fruit that is also abundant, inexpensive, tasty, versatile and a nutrient-dense powerhouse!

When all things are considered, would you try your hand at juicing? Why or why not? Comment, like, follow, and share!