Why is fruit juice not a substitute for whole fruit?

When we weigh the pros and cons of fruit versus juice, it seems that whole fruit (and vegetables) win.  Here are some points to consider:

1.  Many commercial juices have removed the fiber from the fruit to make juice; so you lose a nutrient rich, disease fighting component. 
2. Some "juices" (usually called “juice-based drinks”) even add additional sugar or are made from a variety of concentrates and sugar derivatives so there's not much nutrition in there at all!
3. Loads of research shows that beverages do not register in the same way as foods do in terms of filling us up.  So, if you have a weight loss or weight loss maintenance goal, stick to the chewable food!
4. For the pros on the juice side, if you are having a hard time eating the recommended number of servings of fruits and vegetables, and if you have a home juicer THAT PRESERVES THE FIBER, this might help you increase your intake. To make a healthy juice simply use 3 vegetables to every 1 fruit and do not add additional ingredients like sweeteners, protein powders, etc.

According to the USDA MyPlate guidelines, 100% fruit juice can be counted as a serving of fruit. However, it’s not recommended to get all of your fruit servings from fruit juice. While it might provide a more concentrated source of some nutrients such as vitamin C, fruit juice pales in comparison to whole fruit for fiber content and satiety. Fruit juice is also a very concentrated source of calories so drink it in moderation. 

Whole fruit provides us with fiber along with vitamins and minerals. It often takes time to eat & chew whole fruit which can add to our feeling of satiety (feeling satisfied after eating).

A small glass of 100% fruit juice can be counted as one of your daily fruit servings however as it contains the natural fruit sugar from several pieces of fruit it will contribute calories & portion control is important. One small glass a day is sufficient and whole fruit is recommended for the other daily servings.

Many other types of fruit juice are available which may contain a lot of sugar, artificial flavorings but no fruit so care needs to be taken when choosing which juice to drink. Reading the ingredients label will show you if it's 100% fruit juice.

Fruit juice is not a great substitute for whole fruit; first, the fiber has been removed, and second, liquid calories are not as filling as calories from solid food, so you can easily go over your calorie threshold when you drink fruit juice.