Secrets to Smoothie Success

Smoothies aren’t just a breakfast food. Making a smoothie is a simple way to pack fruits (and yes, vegetables) into your diet very easily. Smoothies are a quick, refreshing option for a pre- or post-workout snack. They also make a convenient meal for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Here’s a breakdown of how to make the perfect smoothie based on your favorite flavors. Choose one from each of the basics below and add as many extras as you like!

The Basics:
Liquids: 1 cup of almond milk, coconut water, coconut milk, soymilk, milk or regular water (less flavor)
Greens: ½ – 1 cup of spinach, kale or spring mix (more bitter)
Berries: ½ – 1 cup of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries or a mixed selection for antioxidants
Nut butters: 1 tablespoon of peanut butter, almond butter, sunflower seed butter or cashew butter
Seeds: 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, flax seeds or hemp seeds

Extra extra: (add as many as you want)
½ – 1 whole banana for potassium and sustenance
½ – 1 cup frozen pineapple, mango or papaya for a tropical taste
1 teaspoon of cinnamon, which can reduce blood sugar levels and heart disease risk factors
½-1 cup of cherry juice, which prevents muscle soreness and inflammation
1 tablespoon of organic unsweetened cocoa powder, which contains iron, manganese, magnesium and zinc

Texture:
½ of an avocado to create a smooth and creamy texture, and also contains many healthy fats, fiber and potassium
¼ – ½ cup of oats for a thicker texture and contain protein, fiber and add a more nutty flavor

Cool Factor:
Add as much ice as you want for your desired temperature