5 reasons why smoothies are not a shortcut to a healthy diet (2024)

FAQs

5 reasons why smoothies are not a shortcut to a healthy diet? ›

However, it is important to remember that the nutritional value of a smoothie is determined by what ingredients are used. Some recipes include excessive amounts of added or natural sugar that can contribute to dental carixes (also known as cavities), diabetes, and obesity (Palacios et al., 2009).

However, it is important to remember that the nutritional value of a smoothie is determined by what ingredients are used. Some recipes include excessive amounts of added or natural sugar that can contribute to dental carixes (also known as cavities), diabetes, and obesity (Palacios et al., 2009).

Smoothies – may count as more than one portion if they contain all the edible pulp as well as the juice. However, realistically, because the fibre content would still be lower than a fresh piece of fruit, smoothies only count as a maximum of two portions of your 5-A-Day.

You can get a lot of nutrients packed into one little glass," says Fye. But too much of a good thing can be unhealthy. "An unhealthy smoothie, it would be one that maybe is just all fruit or has a lot of fruit juice — one that's really laden with added sugar and that's not very balanced," says Fye.

It depends on what's in it. If it's balanced, and has all the components a typical meal would contain (protein, fat, fibre, carbohydrates), then yes, a smoothie can be a meal. But if it's on the lighter side, with only fruit and ice, then no, it's not a meal. To be clear, a smoothie doesn't have to be a meal.

Commercially prepared and store-bought smoothies often contain added sugar, honey or other sweeteners, protein powder that's often sweetened, or milk, yogurt, nut butters and other ingredients that make them more filling — and more palatable — but also add calories.

Smoothies rich in fiber and protein keep you full longer, while those made with fruits and vegetables increase your daily vegetable servings. As long as you are drinking smoothies made from a variety of fruits and vegetables and low in refined sugar, there would be no problem with consuming smoothies every day.

Include one or more sources of protein like yogurt, kefir or milk, as well as healthy fats from nuts, seeds or avocado. Both adults and children should consume smoothies no more than one portion per day.

The mechanical action of blending can break down the cellular structure of the fruit, which can result in a faster rate of absorption of sugars into your bloodstream compared to eating whole fruits. However, the fiber isn't completely lost; it is just not in its original, intact form.

Drinks and 5 A Day

The current advice is to limit consumption of fruit or vegetable juices and smoothies to a combined total of 150ml a day (1 portion).

Can I survive on smoothies? ›

Smoothies offer a great way to take in calories and vitamins in liquid form. So, in conclusion, the answer is yes you could live on smoothies if you took in the correct amount of vitamins, nutrients and proteins.

Green smoothies in moderation can be a great way to get extra vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. But, excessive intake of green smoothies may increase your levels of oxalic acid and this can lead to aching muscles and joints, gout, kidney stones and other health problems.

The bottom line. Despite containing no added sugar, preservatives, or artificial flavors, Naked Juice drinks are still high-calorie, high-sugar beverages. Though they may provide antioxidants and some vitamins and minerals, they're low in fiber and may lead to weight gain over time.

Smoothies are a nice option if you have IBS or other digestive problems. Plant fiber is pulverized when blended and therefore may be easier for your digestive system to handle. The "good guy" bacteria in your gut will be thrilled by the increase in the number of plant foods that smoothies provide.

Although it's better to eat whole fruit than drink fruit juice or smoothies, ifyou want to have some it's better to limit the quantity to the recommended portion of 1 small glass a day (150ml) and make sure your drink goes further by diluting it with water.

And blending shouldn't degrade the vitamins or minerals found in fruits and vegetables, Dr. Lila said. Nor will it immediately harm certain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, like anthocyanins and flavonols, she said.

The most common 'ill effect' of mixing fruits and veggies is gas, because fruit digests faster and uses different digestive enzymes. Carrots and apples are considered exceptions – carrots go well with any fruit and apples go well with any veggie.

Does blending fruit destroy nutrients? “No, blending in a smoothie does not break down the nutrients sufficiently to affect their value,” she assures. Learn more about making healthy smoothies.

New Research Reveals Why You Shouldn't Add a Banana to Your Smoothies. Researchers have found that the enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in certain fruits like bananas can reduce the absorption of heart-healthy flavanols, especially when combined with flavanol-rich ingredients like berries.