We all know that to lose weight we have to eat less and most importantly we need to eat foods that are high in nutrients, but lower in calories. If they taste great and keep us full for hours on end, that’s an added bonus. It’s also what makes smoothies the perfect “food” to help you eat healthier and lose a few pounds. Let’s take a look at how they can help us reach our nutritional goals.
Smoothies are Packed With Nutrients
You can pack a lot of nutrients in your smoothies by adding things like fresh or frozen berries, various other fruits and of course plenty of dark leafy greens. Use coconut water instead of plain water to get the consistency you like while adding a lot of minerals and electrolytes to your smoothies.
Smoothies can Be Very Low in Calories But Very Filling
Use a lot of leafy greens including spinach, kale, and chard for a smoothie that’s low in calories, but high in fiber. Cucumbers, peppers, and even tomatoes are also great green smoothie additions that will fill you up without much added sugar. Use fruit sparingly and stick to low sugar varieties like berries for best results.
Smoothies are Versatile & You Can Add Foods for Nutritional Needs
One of the beautiful things about making smoothies is that you can add whatever you like to them. If you know your other meals for the day are low in protein, add a scoop of protein powder to your meal. If you’re lacking in healthy fats, use half an avocado and some flax seed meal in your smoothies. Mix and match ingredients to fill any nutritional holes you may have and always be sure to add plenty of greens and a serving or two of fruit.
Smoothies are Quick & Easy to Prepare
Healthy meal prep doesn’t get any easier than making a smoothie. Pick your ingredients, measure as needed, and put it in the blender. Blend and pour and you’re ready to go. Even clean-up is a snap with nothing more than a quick rinse, then blending a bit of hot water and soap to clean out the smoothie maker. The only dishes left to clean are the glass you poured your smoothie in and possibly the knife you used to chop up your produce.
Smoothies Taste Great
Last but not least, smoothies taste great and that’s a good thing. Sure, not every smoothie will be a big hit, but a little trial and error will help you find a few favorites that you don’t mind drinking week after week. Overall, they will make a delicious and nutritious addition to your healthy diet.