Alright, let’s spill the juice on fruit juices! While they may seem like a healthy sip, some can be secret culprits behind weight gain and blood sugar rollercoasters. We’ve all been there, thinking we’re doing our bodies good by downing that fruit juice, but guess what? Some of them can pack a punch in calories and send your blood sugar soaring. With an expert’s insight, we’ll uncover which one might be worth cutting out of your daily routine to keep that waistline in check and avoid those sneaky sugar spikes.
We spoke with Jesse Feder, a personal trainer & registered dietitian, to learn about the one fruit juice you should eliminate from your diet because it’s negatively impacting your weight and spikes your blood sugar levels. Feder revealed that all types of artificially flavored juices (known for being sugar-loaded) should be avoided for our overall health.
Artificially Flavored Juices
In the colorful world of fruit juices, there's a vast variety that tempts our taste buds. From classic orange and apple to exotic blends, these beverages often offer a convenient way to get a dose of vitamins and refreshment. However, not all juices are created equal. Some, loaded with added sugars and lacking fiber, can send blood sugar levels on a rollercoaster ride, potentially leading to weight gain over time.
"Artificially flavored fruit juices with high amounts of added sugars are the worst for weight gain and blood sugar. These typically include things like fruit punch, lemonade, Hawaiian punch, high-c, and fruit cocktail juices. These fruit juices contain very little fruit if any at all," says Feder.
He further adds that "they are loaded with artificial colorings, ingredients, sugars, and calories. These things will not only spike your blood sugar but can lead to weight gain over time if consumed consistently." Noted!
Healthier Alternatives
It's crucial to be mindful of the choices we make in the juice aisle, opting for whole fruits or freshly squeezed options that maintain the natural balance of nutrients without the downside of added sugars. Feder suggested a number of healthier and more nutritious alternatives that won't compromise your weight or blood sugar.
"Juicing the actual fruit is much better for you. This way you won't be getting any artificial ingredients as well as a lot of added sugars. Even better is juicing the fruit and leaving the pulp and fibers in the juice for added fiber which can help control blood sugar spikes. Making a smoothie using the whole fruit is the best option as you will not only be getting the juice but the added fiber and nutrients from the rest of the fruit as well," he recommends. Cheers to making smarter sips for a healthier and happier you!
