Anna Maria Richards
Smoothies are great on-the-go meals in a glass. But you have to make sure you whip up ultra-delicious and nutritious smoothies. You don’t want to satisfy just your taste buds, but you must work on meeting nutritional requirements, too.
Load up on vegan protein powder, different kinds of fruit, and other leafy greens to ensure a well-balanced super smoothie that will energise you for your daily activities. Here are six super ingredients that dietitians say will help you make nutritious and filling smoothies.
Include Dark, Leafy Greens
The number one staple for smoothies is dark, leafy greens like spinach and kale. You can also try celery with the leaves for a different flavour profile. Greens are very low in sugar, so it will not cause blood sugar spikes that promote those cravings. They also provide more iron and protein than fruit.
On top of that, leafy greens are very rich in fibre, which aids in your digestion. They also contain folate and phytonutrients that help keep you healthy. Adding greens to your smoothie is one way to keep your smoothie balanced.
Add Vegan Based Powders
To boost the protein factor in your smoothie, add a scoop or two of vegan protein powder. Plant-based protein powder is lactose-free and gluten-free, so this is easier on your stomach. Apart from providing you with a quality source of protein that will help you build lean muscle, this has the power to defeat your cravings and make you feel full longer.
Unlike animal-based powders, these vegan versions are entirely non-GMO. This means you’re not loading up your body with harmful chemicals and antibiotics that are commonly found when farming animals for human consumption. Most of all, these powders come in a broad range of flavours to perk up the taste of your smoothie.
Boost with Nuts, Seeds, and Their Butter Versions
Protein stabilises your blood sugar levels, which means you curb your cravings, and you feel satiated longer. When you take in protein, you’re less likely to keep on reaching for those unhealthy snacks. Nuts, seeds, and butter versions like peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or almond butter are a great addition to your smoothies. They add much-needed fat and protein to help in your digestion.
Aside from those, flaxseed is another great add-on because it is a fantastic source of Omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and protein.
Mix Greek Yogurt and Other Milk Alternatives
These products can make your smoothie a genuine meal replacement because they are rich in healthy protein. Plain Greek yogurt and tofu are great alternative sources of protein. Some even come with different flavour variants. You may also try almond or soy milk if you want that extra creamy taste.
Load Up on Berries
If you love the taste of fruit, berries are an excellent smoothie addition that boosts the flavour of your drink. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and more add both a sweet and tart taste. They are also rich in fibre, which helps promote good bowel movement and healthy digestion. Unlike other fruits that spike your blood sugar quickly, berries help your body maintain a low glycemic index.
Perk Up with Spirulina
Add a tablespoon or two of this sea vegetable that comes in dried powder form to your smoothies. This is a great powerhouse that offers a lot of nutritious benefits without adding calories and sugars. Two tablespoons of this powerhouse contain only 40 calories, 3.4 grams carbs, and 8 grams of protein.
Spirulina is so rich in amino acids that are great for nourishing your muscles. The only caveat is spirulina interacts with certain immunosuppressant drugs. It would be best to ask the advice of your doctor if you have health issues before starting this product.
Final Word
With these six wonderful ingredients, you can stock up your kitchen to make a nutrient-packed smoothie every single day. You can make your taste buds supremely happy while nourishing your body with the right products to keep you in optimal health.
