Dorothy
Administrator
96 posts
Nov 11, 2022
7:50 AM
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Even though smoothies are chock full of nutrients, they don't have to be boring. These healthy smoothie recipes are anything but dull, featuring sweet, colorful frozen fruit (and veggies!), unexpected herbs and spices and creamy add-ins like yogurt and banana to make the dreamiest sips ever. Plus, smoothies make the best quick breakfasts that you can enjoy on the go or as you sit down at your desk.
What are the healthiest things to put in a smoothie?
First, think nutrient- and vitamin-rich produce. Smoothies are a great way to make use of leftover fresh fruit or to sneak in some extra superfoods that you wouldn't normally eat on their own. Think beyond the classic add-ins and consider dark greens like spinach, a squeeze of a citrus fruit, spices like ginger (try grated fresh ginger!) and turmeric, herbs like fresh basil or mint, and if your blender is strong enough, veggies like carrots and beets. Then add some protein, like a spoonful of nut butter or a handful of walnuts, or some plain Greek yogurt, for an energy boost that will keep you going until lunch. Plant-based milks, unsweetened, are a great base, and you can add in a probiotic burst with a healthy pour of kefir.
Is it healthy to have a smoothie every day for breakfast?
That depends on what's in it. "As long as your smoothie contains some protein and isn’t loaded with sugar, it can be a convenient and healthy breakfast option that allows you to pack in a variety of nutrient-dense foods," says Stefani Sassos, deputy director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab. So keep the advice above about sugar in mind, and if you're dying to try out a smoothie recipe that doesn't have protein, you can still add one of the protein boosts above, or even a spoonful of a good-quality protein powder.
You don't have to have a smoothie daily, of course. But as long as you're keeping an eye on your total sugar content for the day, and being reasonable on the serving size of your smoothies, there's no reason not to have one each day. Remember that even if you're not adding sugar to your smoothie, the sugar fruit and dairy both add to your daily sugar intake, as do add-ins like maple syrup.
Are smoothies good for kids?
"Smoothies can be a nice option for kids since they're simple to make and give parents the opportunity to incorporate foods that their child may otherwise not eat," says Sassos. Even if your kid makes a face at even the idea of spinach, he'll probably love a "green monster smoothie" (or whatever you want to name your concoction!), especially if there are a few banana chunks in there to naturally sweeten it up. Another reason smoothies are great for parents is that you can make them ahead of time (hello, saner mornings!), or take the along in a spill-proof cup for a healthy between-games Saturday snack.
What is the best way to make a smoothie?
Learn how to make a smoothie like a total pro (hint: there's a certain order you should add ingredients to the blender!) then get ready to mix up a tasty breakfast or snack that's good for you, too. Our Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab also tested the best blenders for whipping up the smoothest, creamiest drinks. To make smoothies ahead of time, stash your dry ingredients (such as fruits, vegetables, powders and seeds) in the freezer in freezer-safe bags or food storage containers. In the morning, just add your liquid to the blender, followed by the frozen dry ingredients and blend. Breakfast in 5 minutes?
Easy!
SAMANTHA MACAVOY AND AMANDA GARRITY
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Dorothy
Dorothyl@womensselfesteem.com
(Site Administrator)
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