You might assume that healthy food can’t also taste good… and that treats that taste good can’t possibly be healthy. But with a smoothie, you can have it both ways.
Health nuts rave about them, post pictures of them and offer interesting new ingredient ideas on the regular, so you probably know that smoothies are something of a dieter’s dream. But do you really know the answer to “why are smoothies good for you?”
Here are the five biggest reasons why sipping on a smoothie helps you get closer to your weight loss goal (and a few great tasty combos to try):
1. Green Up
Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals that keep your body functioning at its peak, burning calories and fueling active lifestyles. Getting in the recommended four daily servings of greens can be hard on busy days, but adding them to a smoothie takes care of this easily.
2. Protein Power
The most efficient source of energy to get you through your day is protein. Low- or no-fat milk is a protein-rich base for smoothies. Modern day dairy alternatives, like almond and soy milks, are even seeing a boost with added protein depending on the brand. When you’re recovering from a workout or just need an extra boost, you can add more protein with nut butter, whey or seeds such as chia or flax. (For an even easier way to pump up the protein in your smoothies, try adding in some Nutrisystem Shake Mix!)
3. Quick and Convenient
Healthy eating can be a challenge in our hectic lives, but smoothies are a smart solution. Smoothies are easy to make in minutes and they’re perfect for taking on the go. Breakfast time is especially rushed in many households, but if the whole family grabs smoothies on the way out the door, you’ll know everyone (including you) has started the day with a belly full of vital nutrients. Smoothies make great afternoon snacks, too, when you’re running off to appointments and activities.
4. Very Versatile
While smoothies are a great “to-go” option, they can be enjoyed in many ways. Today, people make up smoothie bowls for breakfast, lunch or a post workout pick-me-up. Like drinkable smoothies, smoothie bowls feature milk of some variety blended with fruits and vegetables—but they can be topped with crunchy ingredients such as granola or coconut flakes that might otherwise clog up a blender. Feeling even more creative? You can also turn smoothies into healthy treats by pouring them into Popsicle molds and freezing them.
5. Limitless Variety
The best ingredients for making smoothies are the ones you love, and the combinations are almost endless. You’ll never get stuck in a rut with the same old flavor. One small change in your ingredients can change the dynamic of the whole cup, so be a bit experimental.
In short, smoothies take the cool, creamy delights of a milkshake and combine them with the punch of nutrient-dense ingredients for a sweet, satisfying drink that fills you up and recharges your energy levels at just about any time of day. As a result, they are adored by many and worthy of your attention, too.
Looking for fresh ideas? The five smoothie recipes below are among our favorites, and each is perfect for anyone following a Nutrisystem weight loss plan.
Nutrient bonus: Almonds are high in healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help you feel full, while keeping your blood cholesterol levels in check. Click here for the recipe! >
Nutrient bonus: Mango skin (which you can include in your smoothie) contains a compound that inhibits your body from storing fat, according to a study published in the scientific journal Food and Function. Click here for the recipe! >
Nutrient bonus: Spinach triggers your body to produce the hormones that cause your appetite to be satisfied, say researchers from Lund University in Sweden. Click here for the recipe! >
Nutrient bonus: Coconut is high in lauric acid which your body burns right away. Click here for the recipe! >
Nutrient bonus: Ginger helps to stabilize your blood sugar levels, preventing the surges that can lead to between-meal hunger pangs. Click here for the recipe! >
