By SAND Treasurer Kristina Arslain
I have a great addiction with smoothies. I make them at least once, if not twice a day. They are so easy to make and taste so good! The limited effort required is perfect for breakfast when I have just woken up and am still groggy. They are also great for when I am craving something sweet. Smoothies are basically the healthy version of ice cream or gelato. I wanted to share a few tips on what you can add to improve your smoothie further.
Increase Creaminess
Yogurt: Yogurt is a good source of calcium, B-2, B-12, potassium, and magnesium. It is also full of probiotics, and while more research is needed, probiotics have been shown to strengthen one’s immune system. Depending on how thick you want your smoothie, you can choose between no fat, low fat, regular, and Greek yogurt.
Avocados: Avocados are a great source of potassium, healthy fats, fiber and also help to lower bad cholesterol. In fact, avocados contain more potassium than bananas! And don't worry; you cannot taste it in your smoothie!
Increase Vegetables
Spinach: Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, and can help lower high blood pressure. Other than the change in color of your smoothie, you will not know that there is spinach in your smoothie.
Kale: Kale is extremely nutrient dense, with high levels of vitamins A, K, and C, magnesium and potassium. It is one of the best sources of vitamin K and can help lower bad cholesterol.
Increase Protein
Tofu: Tofu contains all 8 essential amino acids, making it a good protein choice, and is also a good source of iron and calcium. Growing up I was not a fan of the tofu, but my mom would sneak tofu into smoothies and I would have no idea.
Protein Powder: Protein powder also works to sweeten your smoothie.
Increase Caffeine
Tea: Instead of using water or juice, consider using a caffeinated tea such as green tea.
Smoothies are great and are so versatile. Comment in the section below about your experience with the add-ins or how you prefer your smoothies.
Resources
http://www.lvac.com/blog/satisfying-summer-smoothies/
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/benefits-yogurt#
http://www.empowher.com/acute-myelogenous-leukemia/content/avocados-could-be-new-treatment-leukemia
https://authoritynutrition.com/12-proven-benefits-of-avocado/
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270609.php
https://authoritynutrition.com/10-proven-benefits-of-kale/
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/ingredient-focus-tofu
I have a great addiction with smoothies. I make them at least once, if not twice a day. They are so easy to make and taste so good! The limited effort required is perfect for breakfast when I have just woken up and am still groggy. They are also great for when I am craving something sweet. Smoothies are basically the healthy version of ice cream or gelato. I wanted to share a few tips on what you can add to improve your smoothie further.
Increase Creaminess
Yogurt: Yogurt is a good source of calcium, B-2, B-12, potassium, and magnesium. It is also full of probiotics, and while more research is needed, probiotics have been shown to strengthen one’s immune system. Depending on how thick you want your smoothie, you can choose between no fat, low fat, regular, and Greek yogurt.
Avocados: Avocados are a great source of potassium, healthy fats, fiber and also help to lower bad cholesterol. In fact, avocados contain more potassium than bananas! And don't worry; you cannot taste it in your smoothie!
Increase Vegetables
Spinach: Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, and can help lower high blood pressure. Other than the change in color of your smoothie, you will not know that there is spinach in your smoothie.
Kale: Kale is extremely nutrient dense, with high levels of vitamins A, K, and C, magnesium and potassium. It is one of the best sources of vitamin K and can help lower bad cholesterol.
Increase Protein
Tofu: Tofu contains all 8 essential amino acids, making it a good protein choice, and is also a good source of iron and calcium. Growing up I was not a fan of the tofu, but my mom would sneak tofu into smoothies and I would have no idea.
Protein Powder: Protein powder also works to sweeten your smoothie.
Increase Caffeine
Tea: Instead of using water or juice, consider using a caffeinated tea such as green tea.
Smoothies are great and are so versatile. Comment in the section below about your experience with the add-ins or how you prefer your smoothies.
Resources
http://www.lvac.com/blog/satisfying-summer-smoothies/
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/benefits-yogurt#
http://www.empowher.com/acute-myelogenous-leukemia/content/avocados-could-be-new-treatment-leukemia
https://authoritynutrition.com/12-proven-benefits-of-avocado/
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270609.php
https://authoritynutrition.com/10-proven-benefits-of-kale/
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/ingredient-focus-tofu