Last Updated on September 5, 2019 by Femniqe
Let’s face it, life is busy and finding time to eat a healthy meal can feel like an impossible task.
That often ends in a shameful trip through the drive-through. 😉
If you want to make a healthy change, because come on, who doesn’t?
Then smoothies are a perfect way for you to have a healthy meal that doesn’t involve hours of meal prepping, expensive shopping lists and time spent in the kitchen.
They’re the perfect choice for a busy gal like you and I, as they can help you shed a few pounds.
If you change just one meal a day for a healthy smoothie you will find yourself slimming down while increasing your energy.
It’s all about learning to choose the right ingredients and keeping your ingredients simple.
If you do this, not only will you have a shorter and less expensive shopping list but you will also have shorter meal prep time and less clean up.
That is more time on your hands for your busy life, plus you’ll be slimming down with very little effort.
A smoothie can offer a variety of nutrients in just one glass.
They are very portable; require no pans, cooking or cleanup. Well, besides your blender but that’s easy peasy.
Below you will find some smoothie dos and don’ts to keep in mind when creating your own delightful meal in a cup.
If you are going to do it, do it right.
Smoothie do’s
Berries: Pick this bite-sized yumminess for your fruit edition because they are packed with flavor and are low in calories.
Kale or Spinach: They are also low in calories and high in fiber. Adding them to a smoothie is a great way to get a serving of veggies without even tasting them.
Cayenne Pepper: Some like it hot! You can add a little POW to that smoothie and cayenne pepper also helps control appetite.
Chia Seeds: These little babies are packed with fiber and protein to help keep you feeling full and satisfied. They also contain calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.
Cinnamon: Not only does it smell so good, it helps to regulate blood sugar levels by improving how your body metabolizes glucose.
Coconut oil: I’m obsessed with coconut oil. This magic stuff is great for everything.
If you haven’t already read about all the amazing things coconut oil can be used for, I recommend you do.
“Coconut oil isn’t the new kid on the block — over twenty years of research has proven its worth, from aiding in weight loss and decreasing your risk of heart disease to protecting your brain and immune system!” [1]
Greek Yogurt: If you want to add dairy to your smoothie stay away from the calories by choosing a non-fat Greek yogurt.
Plus, it’s packed with protein.
Liquids to use: Tea, water, ice, almond milk or coconut water. Green tea is often used for weight-loss because it helps to speed up your metabolism and curbs your appetite.
It also comes in liquid or powder. Try adding Matcha powder for a power packed green smoothie.
Dairy: Go easy on using milk as it’s high in calories. If you don’t like using it then go for almond, hemp or cashew milk.
Smoothie don’ts
Don’t worry, the naughty list is short and you can be a savvy smoothie chef, slimming down is easier than you think. Just say no to:
Canned fruits or vegetables: The goodness has been taken right out of what’s inside.
Say goodbye to all of the nutritional value, fiber and vitamins because these now sit in syrup, sugar and preservatives.
Canned Veggie juice or Fruit juice: The same goes for these, it may seem like a good idea but do you need all of those extra ingredients, salt, sugar and preservatives? Simple is better.
Protein powders: I hate to completely mix protein powders because there are some good ones out there that can help add protein to your shake for meal replacement purposes.
I am putting them on the don’t list simply because most protein powders are chalked full of weird ingredients.
Personally, I like the brand Pure Protein but finding the right one for you may take a little trial and error because not all protein is the same.
This list will help you decide.
Sugar: Do not add sugar to your smoothie. With all the yummy fruit options, it should be plenty sweet enough, but if you really need a little boost of sweetness try adding just a little Stevia.
YOU KNOW HOW TO MAKE A HEALTHY SMOOTHIE NOW!
See, that wasn’t so painful.
You can get pretty creative with your smoothie by using seasonal fruits and veggies to experience the taste of the season.
Think pumpkin, cranberries, etc. If you are like me you worry about your fruits and veggies going bad before you can eat them all.
That has an easy fix that actually works really well for a smoothie-master like you.
Freeze them!
Frozen fruit and veggies work great in a smoothie and can often replace the need for ice.
Switching out a meal a day for a yummy smoothie is a great way to cut calories and get the nutrients you need to slim down healthfully.
It’s time to get creative and blend up something delicious today! 🙂