"Avoid all smoothies and juices. Chew your food." (from this FaceBook Group).
Dr Esselstyn FAQ explains why:
Note that Dr Esselstyn offers two distinct concerns: his first concern applies to leafy greens; his second concern applies to fruits. Note that Dr Esselstyn is a former heart surgeon. His focus is on fortifying our endothelium for heart health. Both of his concerns explains how our endothelium is impacted if we puree fruits and veggies.
Personally, I wonder if Dr Esselstyn would be okay with a coarse green smoothie (made of leafy greens and veggies) with some fruit toppings — chopped banana or pomegranate — served in a bowl with a spoon by the side to encourage chewing.
What do other Whole Food Plant-Based luminaries say about smoothies and juices?
"Leafy greens are the best vegetables!" — Dr Greger. More info:
How to eat leafy greens?