What Makes A Healthy Smoothie
A healthy smoothie comprises a mix of fruits, vegetables, and spices. Healthy smoothies are the perfect breakfast alternative and have immense weight loss benefits. However, its not ideal to have smoothies for lunch, because your body needs some carbs to sustain it through its daily energy-sapping tasks.
Healthy smoothies are filling and keep you from running to the fridge for a quick snacka plus for your weight loss journey. Daily healthy smoothies will increase your vitamin intake and aid your weight loss journey.
A healthy smoothie should contain fruits, vegetables, nuts, and spices but the secret? The secret to healthy smoothies is the natural ingredients. These ingredients keep you full the entire day, and smoothies high in protein and fiber like the creamy kale smoothie, are good for weight loss.
Savory Weight Loss Smoothies
A smoothie can be a lot of things: a pre- or post-workout boost, a cold and refreshing thirst quencher, a thick and creamy dessert, a perfectly balanced breakfast. But one thing most of us never think of when we think of smoothies: comfort food.
These recipes, from the book Zero Belly Smoothies, stake out a new territory in the smoothie landscape, a culinary point of departure into a taste realm you might not have considered. While these smoothies are still cold and refreshing, they’re going to taste more like a savory soup than a bright pick-me-up.
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop plant-based plain protein powder
- 3 ice cubes
- Water to blend
NUTRITION: 232 calories / 2 g fat / 28 g carbs / 3.5 g fiber / 10 g sugar / 26 g protein
Do Smoothies For Weight Loss Actually Work
When you replace your standard breakfast with a weight loss smoothie, you can lose weight.
On the Zero Belly Smoothies diet, a 39-year-old emergency-response adviser from Katy, Texas, Fred drank Zero Belly Smoothies as part of his weight-loss program. “I noticed results in the first week,” he says. “It really was amazing.” Fred lost 21 pounds and 5 inches off his waist over the next six weeks.
Ohio’s Martha Chesler, 52, who lost 21 pounds and 7 inches off her waist in less than 40 days, had the same experience. “I saw results immediately,” she says.
In fact, in our original Zero Belly Test Panel of more than 500 men and women, many lost up to 16 pounds in the first 14 days. Now you can achieve results like these even more quickly with this carefully created, highly effective collection of Zero Belly Smoothies.
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Best Green Smoothie Recipe
Enjoy my favorite green smoothie recipe, which is really a tropical energy drink in disguise. I’ve blended it in kindergarten classrooms and the kids ask for seconds, no joke! I try and drink at least one kale or spinach smoothie each day to boost my energy levels and fuel my passions.
I know a green smoothie doesn’t sound very appealing at first sight, but when made right it can be beyond delicious. With over a thousand 5-star reviews, it’s time for you to see why blending spinach into a smoothie is a great morning routine.
Green Tea Blueberry And Banana Smoothie
To prepare this smoothie featuring antioxidant-rich green tea, simply heat 3 Tbsp. of water in a bowl in the microwave until its steaming hot. Then, add 1 green tea bag and allow it to brew for 3 minutes. Remove the tea bag and stir in 2 tsp. honey until it dissolves. Combine 1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries, 1/2 medium banana, and 3/4 cup calcium-fortified light vanilla soy milk into a blender. Add the tea and process all ingredients until smooth.
Nutrition: 269 cal,3.5 g pro,63 g carb, 8 g fiber, 38.5 g sugars, 2.5 g fat
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Healthy Smoothies Nutrition Experts Swear By
When’s the last time you really considered what a culinary marvel the smoothie is? Think about it — you can literally put a head of kale, an entire banana, half a box of strawberries, and a cup of yogurt into a blender, and get something you can slurp down in no time at all. And unlike with fruit juices, you don’t lose any fiber from the fruits and vegetables — it’s just in a more “sippable” form.
To celebrate the smoothie, we asked nutrition and fitness experts to share their favorite recipes . Check out five of them below.
Editor’s note: We added a few ice cubes to each of these recipes to make them thicker, but feel free to add or omit ice cubes per your taste preference!
Green Smoothie 1 cup spinach 1 cup kale 1/2 banana A small handful of almonds 3 to 5 raw brazil nuts 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1-2 tablespoons cacao or carob powder 1/2 can of full-fat coconut milk
— Ben Greenfield, fitness and triathlon expert, Get-Fit Guy podcast host
Carrot Mango Smoothie 1 medium mango, peeled and cubed 1/2 cup shredded carrots 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup coconut water 1/4 cup water — Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD, CSSD, LDN, certified specialist in sports dietetics
Kale Banana Smoothie 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk 1 ripe banana 1 cup loosely packed chopped kale 1/4 cup water — Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD, CSSD, LDN, certified specialist in sports dietetics
Peaches And Cream Oatmeal Smoothie
No time for a leisurely meal? Try this grab-and-go, probiotic-rich take on morning oatmeal. Whole-grain oats contain prebiotic fiber that promotes gut health.
This recipe from Preventions Smoothies & Juicesmakes two smoothies: Blend 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 cup frozen peaches, 1/2 frozen banana, and 1/2 cup ice until smooth.
Nutrition: 283 cal, 13 g pro, 53.5 g carb, 2 g fiber, 48 g sugars, 3.5 g fat
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Dark Chocolate Banana Nut
If you want your weight loss smoothies to taste like dessert, this recipe should be your go-to. Four words that combine to sound like a jam session at Ben & Jerry’s house. The density of the banana will have you convinced you’re drinking a milkshake, while the omega-3s in the walnuts will keep your mind sharp and your belly lean.
- ½ banana
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- â cup plant-based chocolate protein powder
- Water to blend
NUTRITION: 280 calories / 3 g fat / 31 g carbs / 7 g fiber / 9 g sugar / 31 g protein”
What Ingredients Are In The Best Weight Loss Smoothies
Healthy smoothies for weight loss are made with the right blend of weight loss foods that are scientifically proven to decrease body fat. Some of the common ingredients we include in these smoothies for weight loss are:
- Protein powder for weight loss: these powders are low in sugar or other sweeteners, low in calories, and rich in high-quality protein that, in combination with strength exercises, will help build metabolism-boosting muscle mass
- Healthy fats: healthy fats like nut butters, avocado, and MCT oil will help to slow digestion to keep you fuller longer to prevent overeating
- Fiber: consuming fiber-rich ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, leafy greens, and oats can help prevent spikes in blood sugar that can lead to the storage of carbs as fat
- Low sugar: fruit is the base of all smoothies, and because fruit naturally contains sugar, there’s no need to add extra sweeteners like honey, orange juice, or frozen yogurt that only serve to add empty calories
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Best Smoothie King Smoothies
With over 1,000 locations throughout the United States, Smoothie King proves one of the most popular smoothie bars in the country.
The company offers a variety of customizable smoothies, which are grouped into four main categories, including:
- Get Fit Blends: contain protein-rich ingredients
- Stay Slim Blends: provide fewer than 350 calories per 20-ounce serving
- Be Well Blends: made with vitamins and minerals to support overall health
- Take a Break Blends: designed to be delicious and flavorful
However, with their massive menu and huge selection of mix-ins, Smoothie King may overwhelm you with its list of ingredients. You may find it tricky to figure out what to order especially if you have any specific health goals or dietary restrictions to keep in mind.
This article covers 10 of the best Smoothie King smoothies to help you find an option that fits your needs and preferences.
Our 6 Best Healthy Smoothies
Smoothies are a go-to for many of us looking for something quick and healthy. Whether you’re in need of a grab-and-go breakfast or a fuss-free snack, smoothies are a great option that can satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
With that said, not all smoothies are created equally. Loading up on high-sugar fruit and juices or adding lots of sweeteners can result in a less than healthy offering. Instead, try to balance the different elements in your smoothie when aiming for something that will keep you fuller for longer. Mixing both fruits and vegetables can result in a higher fibre content, while still maintaining a sweet taste. Additionally, including items like nuts, milk and yogurt can boost the protein and healthy fat content, helping you to feel fuller throughout the day.
For advice on the best kitchen equipment for making smoothies, see our reviews of the best smoothie makers and best blenders.
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Best Healthy Smoothie Recipes
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.
From green smoothie recipes to a basic strawberry smoothie, weve got all the smoothie inspiration you need right here!
Check out 100+ healthy smoothie recipes and learn how to make your own unique healthy smoothies at home with our basic smoothie equation.
Say hello to the most beautiful smoothies on the internet! Smoothies are such a great healthy breakfast idea, snack, or even dinner! In less than 5 minutes you can enjoy multiple servings of fruit, veggies, healthy fats, and more!
PS: Check out our best Protein Shake Recipes, too!
The Best Carbohydrate For Sweet Breakfast Smoothies
Hands down the best carbohydrate for sweet and creamy breakfast smoothies is one half frozen banana.
It is essential that you use a frozen banana to achieve that delicious creamy consistency.
It is also the most natural sugar you can add to your smoothie.
If you dont like bananas, replace them with ½ cup of frozen mango. Thats the next best thing.
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Playa Bowls Vs Healthy Smoothies
Theres a lot of debate about whether Playa bowls are healthier than smoothies. While there may be health benefits attached to playa bowls, you cannot be sure if it contains additives. On the other hand, if you are sure of the ingredients inside your smoothie, then you know that the sugar comes from natural sources. Hence, smoothies are healthier than playa bowls.
The best way to make your smoothie? Use blenders with high-powered blades for making healthy smoothies. Grinding fruits and vegetables requires adequate pressure, so your blender needs to have strong blades and a strong container. The best blenders for healthy smoothies made at home are cleaned regularly.
OjaExpress is your one-stop shop for fresh ethnic ingredients for making the best healthy smoothies. Now, lets look at some quick-fix smoothie recipes:
What Is The Best Way To Make A Smoothie
Learn how to make a smoothie like a total pro 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 in the freezer infreezer-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!
Get the Coffee Banana Smoothie recipe from Little Broken.
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More Smoothie Blender Recommendations
I did want to share some other great blenders that I have personally owned and recommend depending on your price point.
Low cost:Ninja BL480D Blender$99 this is a great single serve blender for those that want to conserve space. Plus you cant beat the price point.
Medium cost:Ninja Kitchen System $229 Ive owned the Ninja Kitchen System for about 5 years and I love that its interchangeable between a blender, food processor, and single-serve smoothie blender. For $229, you really do get it all!
High cost:Vitamix 5200$429 at the highest price point, the Vitamix is THE BEST kitchen appliance Ive ever owned. It will literally crush, pulverize, mix, or puree anything and everything because its so powerful! I highly recommend, 10/10!
Green Weight Loss Smoothies
Popping into a juice bar for a cold cup of extruded kale juice may be all the rage, but when it comes to both nutritional impact and weight-loss power, juices can’t hold a candle to smoothies.
- First, most commercial juices use apple juice, which is a high-sugar, low-nutrient base.
- Second, juicing strips all the natural fiber out of produce: the rough stuff is what makes it good.
- And third, juices lack fat and protein without these crucial elements, you’re getting no fat-burning, metabolism-boosting benefits.
Next time you want to drink your veggies, blend up one of these seriously nutritious recipes from the book Zero Belly Smoothies.
All recipes make one serving.
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How To Make The Healthiest Green Smoothie
by Lisa Bryandisclosure policy
Want to know how to make the healthiest green smoothie? You dont even need a recipe, just grab a variety of greens, fruits and these superfood add-ins.
Are you a green smoothie lover like me? I mean, whats not to love, right? Theyre convenient, portable, easily digestible and nutrient-dense. A glass of green goodness. Which.is why I make them several times a week.
These healthy little drinks can be a meal replacement, immunity booster or jolt of energy, depending on what you put in them. And trust me when I say, the ingredients and combos are endless.
I remember when I first started making green smoothies years ago. For me, it started as a post-workout breakfast . But I soon fell in love with the fact that I could throw virtually anything into my Vitamix blender. Leftover salad greens. Yep. Fresh herbs. Yep. Veggies that I dont normally love to eat. Yep .
Whats more, if you opt for mix-ins and superfood options you can uplevel your green smoothie in no time. Brilliant, eh?
The key here is to not be afraid to experiment. There really isnt a wrong way to make a green smoothie .
What Are The Health Benefits Of Green Smoothies
Kale – Insanely low in calories. Powerful anti-oxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Helpful for arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Helps to create that youthful glow.
Spinach – The beauty of spinach lies in how easy it is to disguise the taste. It’s mild tasting yet packed with an abundance of vitamins, has anti-cancerous properties and is one of the healthiest foods on the planet.
Cucumber – Since it’s 95% water, its an incredible detoxifier. Helps with liver and kidney function.
Lemon – The “happy fruit” – one of the most important items to stock in your kitchen. It’s a highly effective cleansing agent and cuts through the bitterness of greens.
Banana – An essential in smoothies as it adds creaminess, a touch of sweetness, and helps you feel full longer. Plus, it’s rich in potassium and fiber and gives you natural energy.
Pure Apple Juice – Since it’s packed with Vitamin C, it’s a friend to your immune system. The sweet juice counteracts the bitterness of the greens and leaves a refreshing taste.
If you want to up the ante on the health benefits, swap your apple juice with water and add a whole apple instead. You will be increasing your fiber as whole fruits are always preferable to juice. My kids definitely prefer the apple juice but we do both in our home.
This isn’t your overly sweet smoothie that you will be sipping for hours. It’s best consumed right away and use a straw because you will want to stir around all of the amazing blended whole foods.
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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” , 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 , or take the along in a spill-proof cup for a healthy between-games Saturday snack.
Smoothie Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Can you taste the spinach in a green smoothie?
You won’t be able to taste the spinach if you use the proper ratio of fruit to spinach. This green smoothie tastes like a mango pineapple smoothie with a hint of banana flavor.
Are green smoothies healthy?
Blending spinach into a smoothie is a great way to boost your immune system and increase fiber intake, as well as naturally energize you. A kale or spinach smoothie has incredible health benefits with additional phytonutrients. What we eat can truly transform our bodies and our lives in powerful ways.Most smoothies you buy or find online are made with just fruit and fruit juice. This makes them crazy high in sugar, which can cause inflammation and consuming excess calories. A green smoothie, on the other hand, is made with fruit, plant-based liquidsand leafy greens, typically spinach or kale. They’re loaded with iron, potassium, fiber and vitamins galore. If you’re not sure which leafy greens to use in your smoothie, check out my Ultimate Leafy Greens Guide for Smoothies.
What blender do I need to make a spinach smoothie?
Any blender will work, yet to get the creamiest green smoothie you’ll need a high speed blender. Check out The Ultimate Blender Guide, where I reviewed countless blenders to find the best ones for green smoothies. The key is to get rid of leafy chunks, blend quickly and provide tons of value for the price. Hint: not all of them cost $400.
Can I make a green smoothie ahead of time
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