Feast on the Fruit or Just Juice It?

It seems like everyone these days juices.  I have heard people become obsessed with concoctions that I just could not stomach...

So what`s the deal?  Are homemade smoothies and juices a good idea?

That depends on what goes in them, how much, and what you are using the juice or smoothie concoction for.

People often juice their favorite fruits and veggies as a way to fit more nutrients into their diet, a great idea! 

However, I do have a few thoughts:

1. Consider the fiber in those fruits and veggies.  Fiber is often in the peel and pulp, which sometimes gets strained out of juices. You need fiber!
2. An adult needs anywhere from 1.5-2 cups of fruit daily.  Many people have this in just one of their juices or smoothies.  While fruit is good for you, eating too much of it takes up calories that might otherwise be used up in the other food groups that you need: whole grains, lean protein, veggies, and healthy fats.
3. Watch what you add!  I have heard everything from wheat germ to protein powder to blackstrap molasses in various juicing and smoothie concoctions.  Adding certain supplements for added benefits is advised, but just make sure you don`t kick up the calorie amount so much that you are canceling out the benefits! 
4. We like to eat.  Our brains communicate with our tummys when we chew and swallow food to help us know when we are full and satisfied.  Drinking your food does not always have the same result!  You may feel like you are hungry even though you just drank 300-400 calories!
5. Just because you add honey or agave, both considered natural since one comes from bees and another from a plant, does not mean you aren`t adding calories and sugar!