Is fresh fruit juice as healthy as whole fruit?
Whole fruit is usually a better first choice for fibre and fullness. Juice supplies some vitamins but makes it easy to consume substantial sugar quickly, even without added sugar. UK guidance limits juice and smoothies together to 150 mL daily; it does not require drinking them.
Details
Is blending the same as juicing?
A smoothie may retain more fibre than strained juice, but volume, ingredients and drinking habits still matter. Avoid turning several fruit portions into a large drink with added honey or syrup. Water is a suitable thirst quencher.
Diabetes and teeth
Include juice carbohydrate in your diabetes plan and have it with a meal rather than sipping throughout the day. “Fresh” does not prevent an effect on blood glucose or tooth decay.
Juice safety
Unpasteurised juice can contain harmful microbes. Pregnant people, young children, older adults and those with reduced immunity are more vulnerable to severe illness. Choose pasteurised or appropriately treated juice; washing alone is not a guarantee that juice is free from pathogens.
Related reading: Are frozen fruits less nutritious than fresh fruit, and are they safe?.