Let's make smoothies!

Smoothies are a great way to stay hydrated, they also offer an amazing amount of nutrition all packed into one cup.  They are an affordable way to try some exotic fruits as the frozen versions work great! Smoothies can be a snack on the go, an addition to your meal or a treat at the end of a busy day. You can even make a large batch and freeze some for later, or make popsicles. The possibilities are endless and offer fun with the family while everyone creates new combinations. 

Building a balanced smoothie is a perfect way to fuel your body with a burst of nutrition! It’s all about using a variety of ingredients that balance each other out.  Let's break down the steps and learn how to create a nutritious and delicious smoothie that you love. 

You want to start with your liquid, try different bases to help you decide on the texture you enjoy! There are plenty of options. You could start with water, milk (dairy or plant-based), yogurt or even coconut water. The base helps with blending and aids in hydration. 

Next add some greens.  Add a handful of your favorite, mine are spinach and kale, but cucumber, romaine and even beet greens work great! This is your powerhouse, the greens you pick will add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

Now add fruit. Pick your favorite fruits whether they are berries, stone, tropical, or a mixture. Frozen or fresh will work! This is how you add sweetness that is healthy and natural. Fruits also provide fiber that will aid your digestive system.

Then comes the protein. This boost will help you feel energized and help with muscle repair. Greek yogurt, silken tofu, hemp seeds or protein powder are all great choices. Adding protein keeps you feeling full and allows you to maintain an active lifestyle. 

Possibly the most important step, pick your healthy fat. Try different nut butters, coconut milk or an avocado. This provides essential nutrients that improve your heart health and decrease common inflammation. Healthy fats also help you feel full longer, improve your gut health and help with hormone function.

Add some extras, here is where you could try chia seeds, flax seeds, fresh herbs like mint or even some oats. These can all offer an extra kick of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Then you can add some extra flavor to give your smoothie a boost. You could try cocoa powder, turmeric, ginger, matcha or my favorite honey and cinnamon.  

Now it’s time to blend and there you have it, a balanced smoothie that's delicious and nutritious.  Get excited about creating your favorite smoothie! Try different combinations to explore the many flavors and textures you can create. Don’t forget to write your creations down so you can make them again, my family has a little black notebook that we keep our favorites in!  Enjoy each sip as you fuel your body with natural goodness. Your body will thank you and have the energy to kick start any task that comes your way.