Nothing compares to a cool treat in warmer weather. Instead of opting for an ice cream cone or ice pop, both of which are packed with refined sugar, smoothies are healthier alternatives that boast many nutritional benefits. Preparing these smoothies throughout the season will ensure that the next time you are craving something sweet, you can opt for a nutritious alternative to cool down instead. I’ve found three recipes for super-charged smoothies packed with ingredients to help you feel your best.
A fruit smoothie made with seasonal berries is a summer staple. It’s sweet and delicious, so it’s ideal if you’re having trouble fulfilling your daily serving of fruit. This simple raspberry fruit smoothie recipe from Prevention is perfect for beginners:
Prevention’s Berry Good Workout Smoothie
- 1 ½ cups chopped strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
- ½ cup raspberries
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup ice cubes
Berries are loaded with polyphenols, which are antioxidants that eliminate damage-causing radicals in your body. Berries also help boost immunity with vitamin C, and can promote eye and heart health, and lower blood pressure. Honey, also found in this recipe, is not only an effective natural sweetener but is also an excellent source of energy, so you can drink this in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Protein is known for many benefits, including aiding in muscle growth and its ability to make one feel fuller for longer periods of time. However, it also helps the body build and repair tissue, cartilage, and bones. Men’s Health’s Very Berry Super Shake is made with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and probiotics.
Men’s Health Very Berry Super Shake
- 12 oz. water
- 1 cup spinach
- 2 cups frozen mixed berries
- ½ cup plain low-fat yogurt
- 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder
- 1 Tbsp of walnuts
- 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed
The flaxseed in this smoothie is rich in fiber, protein and omega-3s, which help lower cholesterol and boost heart health. Make sure to use ground flaxseed rather than whole so your body can fully digest and enjoy the full benefits of the ingredient. This smoothie, with 57g of protein and 14g of fiber, is packed with superfoods to help you achieve your essential daily nutrients.
Green smoothies often turn many people away because of their color and the fear of their taste. However, simply adding a fruit can alleviate the sometimes-bitter veggie taste and texture. This smoothie from Real Simple adds just the right amount of fruit and green vegetables, so it’s not too overwhelming.
Real Simple’s Kale-Apple Smoothie
- ¾ cup kale, ribs and thick stems removed
- 1 small stalk celery, chopped
- ½ banana
- ½ cup apple juice
- ½ cup ice
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Kale has more iron per ounce than beef. Its vitamins also help boost your immune and cardiovascular systems. Also in this smoothie? Plenty of hydration. Containing 95% water, the celery will help keep you cool.
These smoothies are simple recipes that can be customized to your own preferences. For instance, adding bananas creates a creamier texture and adds potassium. Adapting recipes for your dietary needs can ensure that you get the most out of your smoothie, including the taste you prefer and the vitamins and minerals needed daily.
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