In dietary supplements, two prominent names often appear in discussions: Balance of Nature vs Juice Plus. Both claim to provide essential nutrients and support well-being, but what sets them apart?
This article will delve into the intricacies of Balance of Nature Supplements and Juice Plus Supplements, exploring their ingredients, benefits, and potential drawbacks. By understanding these differences, you can decide which supplement aligns best with your health goals.
What Are Balance Of Nature Supplements And Juice Plus?
Balance of Nature supplements is a brand of whole food supplements that claim to provide the body with the necessary nutrients from fruits and vegetables. These supplements are made by freeze-drying fruits and vegetables, grinding them into a powder form, and encapsulating them.
On the other hand, Juice Plus supplements are also whole food supplements but are made using a different process. Juice Plus uses a proprietary method called “juicing and drying” to create their supplements, where fruits and vegetables are juiced and dried at low temperatures to preserve the nutrients. While both brands aim to provide essential nutrients from fruits and vegetables, the main difference lies in manufacturing.
What Is Good And What Is Bad
Here is a comparison table of the pros and cons of Balance of Nature supplements and Juice Plus supplements:
Balance of Nature :
| Pros | Cons |
| Contains a wide variety of whole fruits and vegetables | Relatively expensive compared to other supplements |
| Whole Food Based | Limited independent research on the product’s effectiveness |
| Available in easy-to-take capsules or chewable form | Limited information on sourcing practices and organic certification |
| Free from artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives | Some users may find the taste or aftertaste unpleasant |
Juice Plus :
| Pros | Cons |
| Provides nutrients from 30 different fruits, vegetables, and grains | Can be costly for long-term use |
| Emphasizes the importance of whole food nutrition | Some studies funded by the company may introduce bias |
| Offered in capsule form or as a powdered drink mix | Emphasizes quality control but specific sourcing details are limited |
| Formulated without artificial additives or preservatives | Capsules may have an aftertaste; drink mix flavor can vary |
Ingredients And Nutrition
Balance of Nature supplements contains a variety of fruits and vegetables that are freeze-dried to preserve their nutritional value. The ingredients include apples, oranges, cherries, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, tomatoes, carrots, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, parsley, garlic, beets, kale, and more. These supplements are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. They are also free from additives, fillers, and preservatives.
The nutritional content varies depending on the supplement but generally provides a wide range of essential nutrients necessary for overall health and well-being.
| Supplement Name | Ingredients | Nutritional Content |
| Juice Plus+ Fruit Blend | Apple, Grape, Orange, Mango, Peach, and Pear | Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Beta-Carotene, and other essential nutrients |
| Juice Plus+ Vegetable Blend | Tomato, Carrot, Spinach, Beet, Broccoli, and Parsnip | Vitamins A, C, and E, Beta-Carotene, and other essential nutrients |
| Juice Plus+ Berry Blend | Cranberry, Raspberry, Blueberry, and Bilberry | Vitamins C and E, Beta-Carotene, and other essential nutrients |
| Juice Plus+ Tree Blend | Grape Seed, Pomegranate, and Açai Berry | Antioxidants, Vitamins C and E, and other essential nutrients |
Ingredients And Nutritional Content Of Juice Plus Supplements
Juice Plus supplements are made from a blend of fruits, vegetables, and grains that are dried and powdered to create capsules or chewable tablets. The ingredients vary depending on the product but commonly include fruits like apples, oranges, cranberries, papayas, and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, kale, and spinach.
Grains such as oats, rice bran, and barley are also included. These ingredients are carefully selected for their nutritional value and are processed using a proprietary method to retain their natural nutrients.
Juice Plus supplements provide many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial plant compounds. The nutritional content of Juice Plus supplements can vary slightly depending on the specific product and serving size.
However, they generally provide a significant amount of vitamins A, C, and E and various B vitamins. They also contain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Additionally, Juice Plus supplements are rich in phytonutrients such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which have numerous health benefits.
It is important to note that while Juice Plus supplements can be a convenient way to supplement one’s diet with additional fruits and vegetables, they should not be considered a substitute for consuming whole foods.
Vegetable Blend
| Ingredients | Nutritional Content |
| Spinach | Vitamin A |
| Kale | Vitamin K |
| Broccoli | Vitamin C |
| Carrot | Vitamin B |
| Beet | Vitamin E |
| Tomato | Dietary Fiber |
| Cabbage | Calcium |
| Cauliflower | Iron |
| Brussels | Magnesium |
| Sweet Potato | Phosphorus |
Fruit Blend
| Ingredients | Nutritional Content |
| Apple | Vitamin C |
| Orange | Vitamin A |
| Grape | Vitamin K |
| Pineapple | Manganese |
| Strawberry | Potassium |
| Papaya | Folate |
| Blueberry | Dietary Fiber |
| Cranberry | Calcium |
| Raspberry | Iron |
| Cherry | Magnesium |
How Do Balance Of Nature And Juice Plus Supplements Claim To Support Health?
Balance of Nature supplements and Juice Plus supplements claim to support overall health and well-being by providing a concentrated source of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients derived from fruits and vegetables. These supplements aim to bridge the nutritional gap in individuals’ diets, as they often need to consume the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables.
Balance of Nature supplements are made from whole food sources, ensuring the nutrients are naturally preserved. On the other hand, Juice Plus supplements use a proprietary process to create powders and capsules containing concentrated fruit and vegetable extracts.
Both supplements claim to enhance immune function, support cardiovascular health, promote healthy digestion, increase energy levels, and provide overall nutritional support for optimal health and well-being.
Effectiveness Of Balance Of Nature Supplements And Juice Plus
There needs to be more scientific studies or research supporting the effectiveness of Balance of Nature supplements and Juice Plus supplements. While these products claim to provide essential nutrients and promote overall health, there is limited evidence to support their efficacy.
It is important to note that the supplement industry needs to be more closely regulated, and many claims made by manufacturers may not be backed by rigorous scientific research. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any dietary supplements into your routine.
Side Effects Or Risks
Balance of Nature is a brand offering various dietary supplements from fruits and vegetables. While these supplements are marketed as natural and beneficial for overall health, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects or risks associated with their consumption. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Allergic Reactions:
Some individuals may be allergic to fruits or vegetables used in Balance of Nature supplements. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like itching and hives to severe reactions such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis. If you have known allergies to specific fruits or vegetables, it is crucial to carefully read the ingredient list before consuming these supplements.
Digestive Issues:
The high fiber content in Balance of Nature supplements can cause digestive issues in some individuals. Increased fiber intake may lead to bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, or changes in bowel movements. It is important to gradually introduce these supplements into your diet and drink plenty of water to minimize the risk of digestive problems.
Interactions with Medications:
Certain ingredients in Balance of Nature supplements may interact with your medications. For example, grapefruit extract found in some formulations can interfere with the metabolism of certain medications, leading to increased or decreased drug levels in the body. To avoid potential interactions, you must inform your healthcare provider about all the supplements you are taking.
Potential Side Effects or Risks Associated with Taking Juice Plus Supplements:
Juice Plus is another brand that offers fruit and vegetable-based dietary supplements. While these supplements claim to provide concentrated nutrition from various fruits and vegetables, it is essential to consider potential side effects or risks before incorporating them into your routine. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable.
Gastrointestinal Upset:
Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset when taking Juice Plus supplements. This can manifest as bloating, gas, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort. These symptoms are more likely to occur if the supplements are taken on an empty stomach or the recommended dosage is exceeded. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it may help minimize these side effects.
Vitamin Overdose:
Juice Plus supplements contain concentrated amounts of vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables. While these nutrients are generally beneficial, excessive intake can lead to vitamin overdose or toxicity. This is especially relevant for fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, which can accumulate in the body over time. It is essential to follow the recommended dosage and avoid taking additional vitamin supplements without consulting a healthcare professional.
Quality Control Concerns:
Some concerns have been raised about the quality control practices of certain supplement manufacturers, including those producing Juice Plus supplements. It is crucial to ensure that your chosen brand follows strict quality control measures and adheres to good manufacturing practices to minimize the risk of contamination or substandard ingredients.
How did we evaluate the Balance of Nature?
When assessing the Balance of Nature, I personally focused on its impact on my overall well-being. I started by incorporating their fruit and veggie supplements into my daily routine. Over a few weeks, I noticed increased energy levels, improved digestion, and a generally enhanced sense of vitality. The simplicity of adding these natural supplements to my diet made it convenient, and the positive changes in my health were evident.
Overall, my experience with Balance of Nature was marked by noticeable improvements in my daily life, making it a valuable addition to my wellness journey.
Is Balance of Nature safe?
In my personal experience, I found the Balance of Nature to be safe for me. I consulted with my healthcare provider before incorporating their supplements into my routine, and I didn’t experience any adverse effects. The natural ingredients in their products reassured me, and the gradual positive changes in my health further affirmed the safety of the supplements.
It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before making such changes, but based on my journey, I felt comfortable and secure using Balance of Nature as part of my daily wellness routine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the critical differences between Balance of Nature supplements and Juice Plus supplements lie in their composition, sourcing, and overall approach to nutrition. Balance of Nature supplements are derived from whole fruits and vegetables, providing a concentrated dose of essential nutrients.
On the other hand, Juice Plus supplements are made from a blend of fruits and vegetables that undergo a proprietary juicing and drying process. While both products aim to bridge the gap between dietary intake and optimal nutrition, Balance of Nature emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods naturally. At the same time, Juice Plus focuses on capturing nutrients through juicing and drying. Ultimately, choosing these two supplement options depends on individual preferences and dietary needs.
References:
- Williams, E. J., Baines, K. J., Berthon, B. S., & Wood, L. G. (2017). Effects of an Encapsulated Fruit and Vegetable Juice Concentrate on Obesity-Induced Systemic Inflammation: A Randomised Controlled Trial. Nutrients, 9(2), 116.
- Food and Drug Administration. (2019, August 20). Warning Letter: Evig LLC dba Balance of Nature. FDA.
- County of Santa Clara. (2023, July 26). Supplement Company to Pay $1.1 Million in False Advertising Settlement. County of Santa Clara, Office of the District Attorney.
- The Nutrition Source. (n.d.). Vegetables and Fruits. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture. (n.d.) What is MyPlate? USDA.
- Dhalaria, R., Verma, R., Kumar, D., Puri, S., Tapwal, A., Kumar, V., Nepovimova, E., & Kuca, K. (2020). Bioactive Compounds of Edible Fruits with Their Anti-Aging Properties: A Comprehensive Review to Prolong Human Life. Antioxidants, 9(11), 1123.
