Whether you are focused on incorporating more nutrients into your diet or creating healthier overall eating habits, smoothies are a great way to pack a nutritious punch into your day. If you are a little lost when it comes to blending a smoothie that tastes great but is still healthy, look no further.
Read on to discover five ingredients you need in your smoothie:
Healthy Base
One mistake new smoothie enthusiasts make is not adding a good base. Sweetened, flavored yogurt and full-fat milk may make your smoothie taste like a milkshake, but it will create a calorie bomb rather than a healthy meal. Try to opt for a healthy smoothie base instead. You can add unsweetened yogurt, Greek yogurt, low-fat milk, or plant-based milk such as almond milk. If you want a lighter smoothie, opt for natural fruit juice or coconut water.
Greens
Most of us can admit we aren’t eating enough greens in our day-to-day lives, despite our doctors and parents telling us that they are good for us for decades. A smoothie is a great way to add greens to your diet, especially if you’re not crazy about the taste, as the fruits and other ingredients tend to mask their flavor. Try adding a handful of spinach or kale to your smoothie. Be sure to blend thoroughly, so you don’t suck up any fibrous bits of leaf.
Whole Fruit
A crucial component of any smoothie is fruit. Most fruit works well in a smoothie, so it is all about finding the combinations you like best. Bananas are great for a thick and creamy smoothie, while most berries will add loads of sweetness and antioxidants. Citrus will create a bright flavor and is sure to deliver your daily amount of vitamin C. If you prefer, you can even use frozen fruits. Try to steer clear from canned fruit in syrup, as it will add unnecessary sugar to your smoothie.
Acai Powder
Acai is a fruit native to the rainforests of South America. It has become increasingly popular in the last decade due to its health benefits. This fruit is packed with antioxidants, which may reduce your disease risk and improve your overall health. While acai is challenging to find in its natural fruit form, you can still get the benefits of this superfruit from acai powder. It is easy to add to your smoothies and provides the same value as the whole fruit without the hassle of removing the stone.
Extra Filling
Fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients and fiber, but they often lack adequate fat and protein, which is necessary to form a complete meal. Adding protein and fat is especially crucial if you are drinking your smoothie as a meal rather than a snack, as you want to be satisfied and not reach for snacks in between meals. Some great additions to your smoothie are protein powder, nut butter, chia seeds, and oats.
Smoothies are a great way to add extra servings of fruits and vegetables into your daily diet. Use a variation of these five ingredients to create a super smoothie packed with nutrients and flavor.
