Eating fruit is incredibly good for the body. An easier way to consume multiple types of fruits is through smoothies. Smoothies are incredibly beneficial in many ways. Not only are they fast and easy to make, they are packed with nutrients that your body craves for optimal health. The ingredients used in these smoothie recipes promote good health and can reduce your risk for problems such as heart disease and cancer. Drink a smoothie a day and reap in the benefits! From apples, to bananas, and berries, you will be sure to brighten your morning with these smoothies.
Apple-Banana Smoothie
Apples and bananas are popular for a reason! These fruits can lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of cancer, asthma, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Throw them in a blender for a tasty and healthy morning treat!
Blend together:
¾ chilled apple juice
¼ cup frozen apple juice concentrate
⅓ cup applesauce
1 cup frozen diced apple (Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, or Gala)
½ frozen sliced banana
Pinch of ground cardamom
This recipe makes about 2 cups. Each serving is about 387 calories, 1 gram of protein, 98 grams of carbohydrate, 1 gram of total fat, and 26 milligrams of sodium.
Source: Good Housekeeping Juices & Smoothies: Sensational Recipes to Make in Your Blender
Berry-Banana Smoothie
Strawberries are not only sweet, but they can protect your heart by increasing the good cholesterol (HDL), lower your blood pressure, and guard against cancer. The ingredients in this recipe also help to boost your immune system and detoxify your body.
Blend together:
2 cups frozen strawberries
1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
1 sliced banana
½ cup oats
½ cup orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Each serving is about 190 calories, 6 grams of protein, 41 grams of carbohydrate, 2 grams of total fat, 3 milligram of cholesterol, and 43 milligrams of sodium.
Source: Good Housekeeping Juices & Smoothies: Sensational Recipes to Make in Your Blender
Berry Yogurt Flip
Berries in all forms are a good source of fiber, great for your health and bones as well! Certain types of berries can reduce inflammation and reduce your risk for cancer. The plain yogurt in this recipe contains probiotics which promotes healthy bacteria in your gut.
Blend together:
½ cup cranberry-raspberry juice
1 cup blueberries, or elderberries (cooked)*
½ frozen whole acai berries or acai berry pulp, partially thawed
6 almonds
½ cup plain yogurt
This recipe serves 2. Start the blending process with the cranberry-raspberry juice, blueberries, acai berries, and almonds. After about 30 seconds, add yogurt and blend on high until the texture is smooth.
Source: The Smoothies Bible: Second Edition
You can find more smoothies like these in “The Smoothies
Bible” and “Good
Housekeeping Juices & Smoothies: Sensational Recipes to Make in Your
Blender”. Smoothies are a great in between meal snack and can be
cheap! They are delicious, nutritious, and incredibly quick and easy to make.
Check out your local farmers market or purchase frozen fruit in bulk at your
local Costco or Sam’s Club.