Healthy Smoothies
Healthy smoothies put you in the drivers seat. Give your body a healthy boost by blending a mix of natural ingredients and antioxidant rich fruit to fill you up on the go. You can mix in extra protein and fiber for weight loss or add extra fruit for a carb loaded pre-workout drink. Eat healthy and keep your wallet full at the same time. In our busy lives convenience rules. Whatever your needs are, healthy smoothies are a way to incorporate whole foods into your diet without any hassle. Anyone can do it and everyone can afford it. Here's how to make a smoothie. How To Make A Smoothie Smoothies contain a base of milk or juice, fresh or frozen fruit, and ice blended together.The key is to blend whole foods together without the added sugars and preservatives that rob them of their nutrition. As long as you keep it natural your body will benefit. Find a base you like. Milk or juice works, but there are healthier alternatives that you can try. Soy milk is high in protein and contains no saturated fat. Coconut milk is creamier and makes any smoothie a tropical delight. You can even make your own smoothie base by blending almonds and water first before you add the fruit and ice. As long as you have a good blender it will turn out smooth and healthy. Add fruit. Try familiar fruit first that you already enjoy. Bananas are always a good choice along with apples, pears, grapes, and strawberries. Once you have perfected the art of healthy smoothies, you may want to venture out and order some superfoods from around the world. Add ice to your liking. I personally like less ice (Brain-Freeze) but it's zero calories and makes it thicker. If you're using frozen fruit you will need less ice or none at all depending on your preference. Blend And Enjoy! Blend slowly at first and increase the speed for about a minute.
Understanding the 5 basic components of Nutrition will help you make the right kind of smoothie for your needs.1.Protein builds muscle and tissue within the body. It's low calorie and high density keeping you full longer. See my Good Sources Of Protein page for more info. 2.Carbohydrates are the body's fuel or energy. Low glycemic carbs sustain energy and high glycemic carbs promote fat storage. Learn more on my Glycemic Index page. 3.Fat (Good and Bad) is essential in the body. The "Good Fat" is UNsaturated fat (Polyunsaturated/Monounsaturated). Bad fat is saturated and trans-fats or "hydrogenated oil" is terrible for your body. 4.Fiber is undigestable carbs. They aid in digestion and can even lower cholesterol levels. Read more on my High Fiber Foods page. 5.Micronutrients (Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants) are crucial in maintaining your body's immune system and all functions on the cellular level including anti-aging and disease prevention. Visit my Facts About Vitamins for more on micronutrients. |
