Smoothies are very popular, but so much can go wrong in such a short period of time inside that blender!  Yet, there is hope.

It really is a great idea.

Smoothies are portable, quick, and easy and most kids and adults alike are happy to have a “milk-shakey” kinda thing for breakfast.  That being said, I cringe when I hear what’s going into these smoothies.   It’s a sugar rush disguised as a healthy meal replacement.

Consider this.

Many of us are making a fruit smoothie.   While fruit is filled with natural sugars, it is sugar just the same.   Add in some yogurt and milk or sweetened almond milk, and you’re starting your day with more sugar than is really good for you.   I’m certainly not advising you to give up fruit.  What I would encourage you to do is add some nutrient-dense foods to your smoothie.   See how many veggies you can throw into the mix.   Very few of us are eating as many servings of veggies a day as we should be.

Smoothies are a sneaky way to get some more into your diet, especially leafy greens.

What about healthy fats and essential fatty acids?  How about protein?  To bump up the nutrient content AND slow the sugar rush, consider adding 1 tbsp of coconut oil.  Coconut oil is great for your brain and for your skin.  Not ready to try coconut oil? How about an avocado?  Either will give your smoothie a creamy texture and you may be able to add water instead of a sweetened beverage.  A handful of nuts will add EFA’s and a bit of protein.  NOW we’re talking breakfast.  What about replacing the yogurt with kefir?  Kefir is a fermented food that will help to build good gut bacteria.  There are many healthy things that can be added.  As long as you have a good blender, you won’t even know they’re there.

Just think how great you’ll feel starting your day with a healthy smoothie!

You can be all smug inside, knowing that you’ve given your body and mind the very best start to the day that you can.

I’m including a list of some of the things that I put in my smoothies.  I don’t use them all in the same smoothie.   Mix it up!  Our bodies need variety.

• walnuts
• flax oil
• coconut oil
• spinach
• collard greens
• beets
• you could do kale but I don’t as I have a thyroid condition
• cucumber
• avocado
• banana
• pineapple
• dates
• frozen berries
• pecans
• hemp seeds
• chia seeds
• pumpkin seeds
• sunflower seeds
• mixed leafy greens
• snap peas

I’m probably forgetting something. I just open the fridge and start grabbing.  My smoothies are typically about 3/4 veggies with a bit of fruit for taste and of course, nuts and oil.

Happy mixing!!