For whatever reason it is easier to drink hearty servings of
fruits and vegetables than it is to prepare and eat them. That’s why smoothies are our go-to method of vitamin consumption.
Not only are smoothies delicious and nutritious, they are also easy to make and take when we’re running to work or
yoga class. We love blending our liquid perfection with seasonal fruits, but first we make sure our smoothies are packed with the following beneficial elements:
Key ingredients for a healthy smoothie:
1. Greens
Green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, swiss chard, or dandelion greens are the foundation of your healthy smoothie. A couple handfuls will provide your body with vitamins A, C, K, calcium and fiber. Your immune system, heart and skin will be better for this staple smoothie ingredient.
2. Protein
Since you’re drinking your veggies, you might as well make your meal complete with added protein. Protein is essential for cell renewal, muscle health, and it also helps you feel full longer. ToeSox ambassadors
Amy Ippoliti and
Courtney Miller opt for
Vega One Protein Powder.
“I love this stuff because it's yummy but also because I can
easily travel with it and know I will get plenty of plant-based protein, greens, probiotics and fiber on the go,” says international Pilates trainer Courtney Miller.
3. Good fat
Good fats (polyunsaturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fats) provide our bodies with essential fatty acids, keep our skin soft and deliver fat-soluble vitamins. When good fats are consumed in moderation, they help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Add coconut oil or avocado to your smoothie to ensure you’re getting this good kind of fat.
4. Water
What better way to hydrate and sneak in another serving of H20 than to add water to your smoothie? If you like your smoothie a little creamier, try half water and dairy substitute (like hemp milk or almond milk).
5. Special touch
After you’ve added the above ingredients, it’s time to get creative! Before you start blending,
add more love to the mix. Here are a couple ideas:
- Add persimmons and cinnamon for rich Fall flavor
- Add fresh strawberries and almond butter for a drinkable PB&J (this is YogaSlackers Raquel Hernandez-Cruz’s personal favorite)
- Add orange slices and vanilla Greek yogurt to make a vitamin C-packed orange creamsicle
- Add bananas and raw honey for a frothy, sweet drink. (Ambassador Koya Webb loves bananas in her smoothies. “I love bananas because they are filling, packed with nutrients and make my smoothies creamy! The more ‘nanas the better!”)
Now that you’ve compiled a colorful array of nutrients, it’s time to add ice, blend, pour and
enjoy your concoction! Make smoothies part of your daily ritual.
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