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I'm a juice-lover and I used to drink it a lot, but now do so in moderation.
Fruit juice is good for you - again, in moderation. Even fructose as found in juices can be bad for you in excess. It is best if it is freshly made via your own juicer, but it doesn't have to be. It's best if the juice is not from concentrate. I actually recommend cutting your fruit juice 50/50 with water if possible (I understand there is a serious water shortage going on in South Africa). It really doesn't affect the taste too much. I sugges tthis because it allows for a more gradual, healthy increase in your blood sugar levels and is easier on your teeth. (Incidentally, I try to have any fruit juice about 30-60 minutes before brushing my teeth. It's also far better for the teeth if you drink your juice all in one go, rather than sipping it throughout the day.). You can also try mixing fruit juices with veggie juices as well.
I've been vegan for nearly 22 years...In that time, I've enjoyed - and still enjoy: still spring water, Perrier, some juice (both vegetable and fruit), both homemade and store-bought smoothies, coconut, almond and rice milks as well as certain herbal teas (I find peppermint, spearmint, lemongrass and red raspberry leaf to be especially delicious.). There are even herbal 'coffees' made with things like chicory root, but I've not tried these since I'm not a coffee drinker. If you enjoy wine on occasion, there are organic, sulfite-free wines available (I confess to not having sampled these either since I am a teetotaller!).
Vegan can have a more difficult time putting on weight than can a vegetarian who still consumes dairy (I am speaking from experience here!).
Fruit is better for you than fruit juice is because the sugars are less concentrated. This means you are less likely to get a sharp 'blood sugar spike' followed by a 'dip' because your body is working to more slowly digest that whole piece of fruit (which will allow for more stable blood sugar) - whereas with juice, your body processes it rapidly. When your body experiences sharp blood sugar swings on a regular basis, it can cause weight gain issues for some, skin problems, hormonal issues (more so in women), headaches, increased susceptibility to illness and a continual yo-yo effect of blood sugar levels.
I hope you find some tasty beverages to enjoy!
I drink to your health! ;-) Salute!
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