Living Smoothly with Some Cool Smoothies

By Avanti Vadivelu
 
This summer is getting off to a hot start with above average temperatures. What better way to take a break and cool off than with a cool, and refreshing smoothie? The best part about it… they’re easy to make right in your own home or office. So why not make this naturally yummy nutritious treat part of your daily summer routine?
 
First things first… Why ARE smoothies so good for you? According to Tara Burner, Natural Health & Wellness Coordinator, fresh smoothies provide an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Vitamins activate enzymes, and without enzymes we could not absorb, digest or convert food properly. Burner says enzymes produce energy at the cellular level and are critical for most of the metabolic activities taking place in your body.
 
Of course, knowing how to make these fresh smoothies properly is key to ensuring that you’re getting the promised nutrition. Keep on hand some fresh fruit that go well together (i.e. strawberries and bananas, or mangoes and peaches, etc.). Also have handy some plain, fruit or organic yogurt. You can also use milk or even soy milk for a more high protein smoothie. Depending on your health goal or diet, it’s up to you whether you want to use low-fat ingredients. You may also choose to use frozen, unthawed fruit straight from the freezer. Sandy Moyer of BellaOnline.com even suggests freezing bananas that are getting ripe and using those in your delicious smoothies. Fruit juice, such as apple, pineapple or orange juice, is also necessary to make a good smoothie. Besides these basic ingredients you can always add your own touch by adding things like honey, cinnamon, or vanilla. Desiring even more nutritious fuel? How about tossing in some flax seed (about a tablespoon)?
 
Here is a basic smoothie recipe you can try in your kitchen with little to no appliances, courtesy BellaOnline.com:
 
1/2 to 1 cup fruit
1 cup plain or fruit yogurt
1/2 cup fruit juice
4 ice cubes (or none if using frozen fruit)
Combine all the ingredients in a blender. Process on high until the ice is completely crushed and the drink is smooth and creamy.
 
This quick and easy treat is something you and your family can enjoy making and drinking together on those hot and dry summer days. So go ahead and quench your thirst while adding some nutrition to your diet at the same time!
 
Do you have a recipe for an especially yummy or nutritious smoothie? Please share your wisdom with the rest of us and post your recipe on MyHealthGate.com today!