Broccoli, kale, spinach, avocados, kiwis, lettuce, cabbage and many more green fruits and vegetables are an incredible source of vitamin C, E, D, K & B12. Think about these greens like your daily immunity boosters or multivitamins. They are the multivitamins of nature, coming straight from the soil, not manufactured in the factories. When they are digested, these nutrients help our body to produce oxygen rich blood cells. This is super important for the health of our heart, functioning of our vascular system, raising our energy levels, boosting our immunity, improving our brain health & memory, and giving us beautiful, dewy skin.
Unfortunately, for many of us, greens are not our favorite food, and most of us don’t have enough greens in our diet. Let’s be honest, it is not easy to incorporate the right amounts of fruits and vegetables in our daily diet. That is why green juices and smoothies became a very popular alternative.
When is the best time to drink my greens?
Green juice at any time of the day is better than no juice at all. But, the best time is on an empty stomach, before breakfast, before coffee. And then wait at least 1 hr to have breakfast. Because in the morning our stomachs are empty and well rested for at least 8-10 hrs. This is when we best absorb all the nutrients from our greens.
Which is better? Green Smoothies or Green Juices?
Again, incorporating any form of greens is better than not having any at all. Here is a comparison between smoothies and juices:
Smoothies require blenders and the fiber is still intact. Vegetable fiber makes you feel full for extended amounts of time. Smoothies are a great option if you are concerned about elevated blood sugar levels. Smoothies tend to be chunkier than juices, especially if you are blending very fibrous veggies such as celery or kale, therefore they might be a little bit more difficult and unpleasant to drink.
Juices require juicers. Nowadays you can find some great slow juicers in the market; but, they tend to be a little pricier than blenders. I use Hurom HZ, and I am very happy with it. I heard from friends that Breville has great juicers as well. Think about juices as a straight shot of vitamins and enzymes on an empty stomach. They are much easier to digest because in the process of juicing, vegetable fiber is removed. If you are worried about digestive issues or feeling bloated, juicing might be a better option for you.
You do you, whether it is juicing, blending or just eating raw greens all day long it really doesnt matter as long as you have an adequate amount of greens in your daily diet.
Xoxo, Irem
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