Are fresh fruit and fruit smoothies equally nutritious?

Answer

I would say one is not better than the other because both options are a different means to meet your daily recommendation of fruit (What is a Serving of Fruit?). Whether you choose to eat fresh fruit or sip a smoothie depends on your appetite or personal preference.
Fresh fruit can be served with a meal, eaten as a snack, or be used in a recipe such as a smoothie or salad.  Eating fruit can help with weight control while providing nutrients and antioxidants the body needs.  Fresh fruit is low in calories, high in water and fiber to help fill you up.
Smoothies prepared with whole fruits and vegetables are a great way to meet daily recommendations, nutrients, and antioxidants. Additional ingredients like milk, yogurt or peanut butter increase the nutrient value as well as caloric content so be mindful of the portion size.  Smoothies are also a great way to sneak veggies into a picky eater’s diet. Make sure to check the ingredient list of packaged smoothies which may contain excess sugar.
With a wide variety of colors, textures, taste and forms, don’t limit yourself to only your favorite fruits, be adventurous and improve your health with More!  Visit our fruit and vegetable database to check out the vast variety of fruits and vegetables.  We also have many exciting smoothie recipes you can try.