Smoothies: One of the tastiest, most versatile meals you can have. You can have a smoothie for breakfast, lunch, snack, or even dinner, and you probably have your own preferences on what you put in yours to make it taste perfect. But what if I told you that with the addition of one or two ingredients, you could give your daily smoothie a HUGE health boost that will leave you with long-lasting health benefits and the feeling of satisfaction all day long? It’s possible, delicious, and easier than you think! You’ll definitely want to add some of these ingredients to your smoothie recipes to feel and look great all day long:
Leaner Creamer
That’s right, it’s not just for coffee! Leaner Creamer tastes delicious in smoothies of all kinds, adding a yummy flavor, and can promote appetite suppression and weight loss. It’s so easy to add to smoothies -- all you need to do is pour a teaspoon into your smoothie and blend. You get a subtle but creamy flavor with almost no extra work. On top of that, you’re getting only ten added calories, and no extra sugar or trans fat! What are you waiting for?
Acai berries
Acai is the antioxidant powerhouse of the food world, as it contains more antioxidants than any other known food. Antioxidants are important in fighting against the production of free radicals, which leads to the growth of cancer. But since it’s widely considered a superfood, this little purple berry does more than just that! Regular consumption of acai helps lower cholesterol, increase energy, and since it is low in calories, you can consume it without worrying about weight gain. The best way to add acai to your smoothies is by blending its frozen pulp into the mix. Make sure to include other naturally sweet fruits or flavorings to enhance the flavor of the acai.
Chia Seeds
You’ve probably heard about chia seeds, but do you know why they are so popular in recipes of all kinds? They’re incredibly nutritious, versatile, and virtually flavorless in smoothies. That means you’ll only notice their presence when you feel the awesome benefits they have! Chia seeds are high in protein, omega-3s, and omega-6s. Their high fiber content helps aid in weight loss and improves digestion. It also is great for your blood, as chia seeds help maintain appropriate blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and control blood sugar level as well. It also gives you a boost in energy, which makes it great to consume before a workout! The easiest way to consume chia seeds is to sprinkle it on top of your smoothie or blend it in with the rest of the ingredients, and consume as normal.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil. We use it for just about everything – medicinally, for beauty purposes, and it even has household applications like acting as a laundry detergent! However, have you ever actually used coconut oil for what it was intended for… to eat? If not, you should start! Coconut oil is an awesome superfood that helps lower LDL levels (bad cholesterol), and raises HDL levels (good cholesterol). It’s antibiotic properties also help destroy acne-causing bacteria when consumed… hello clear skin! Add a tablespoon to your morning fruit smoothie for a light coconut taste, and major health benefits.
Goji Berries
Goji berries are great for vegetarians and vegans alike, because it offers tons of plant-based proteins. They’re rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and they taste great too! These bright red berries offer protection against heart disease, improves overall eye health, is anti-aging, and helps to strengthen your immune system. What’s not to love? The best way to eat goji berries is to use them to top your smoothies, but don’t be ashamed to eat them alone as a snack too!
Hemp seeds
Hemp seeds are amazing for your heart, and aid in the prevention of heart disease. In addition to this, it also helps to increase metabolism and lower bad cholesterol. When consumed regularly, hemp seed can also help improve overall skin health, and decrease inflammation. A scoop in your morning smoothie is nearly flavorless, but offers so many health benefits you’ll surely find yourself coming back for more.
Bee pollen
You might already add honey to your smoothies for an extra sweet kick of nourishment and deliciousness, but there’s another gift from the bees that you probably haven’t considered adding to your smoothies yet – bee pollen. You might think I’m crazy, but hear me out. Bee pollen is one of the most nutritionally dense foods on the face of the planet, and it contains almost all the necessary nutrients needed for human survival. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and contains tons of antioxidants to help fight against free radicals. If you have allergies, you’re in luck – bee pollen actually helps reduce symptoms in allergy sufferers with regular consumption. Toss it on top of your smoothies and enjoy the feeling of doing your body good.
