Benefits of Smoothies – Why I Think Smoothies Are Awesome!

If you have been following along you would know that I have been on a smoothie kick lately. Though we are having colder-than-normal summer temperatures here in Vermont, I have been enjoying one smoothie every day since the beginning of May.

As a matter of fact, I switched from my usual oatmeal breakfast to a glass of smoothie in the morning. It has been so great that I thought I could share a few of the reasons why I think smoothies are awesome during the summer months.

With that being said, before I continue, I have a few disclaimers:

– You already know this, but I have to say: I am not a doctor so take these with a grain of salt. If you have a health condition you should always consult to your doctor before eating or drinking certain foods.
– As in everything, you should drink smoothies in moderation. Though they can be good for you, they contain a lot of sugars. The ideal amount is 8-12 ounces a day. If you are having more than that you might be doing more damage than good.
– The smoothies I share here on the blog (and drink every day) are free of processed sugars. Also, they are all homemade and I 100% know what goes in there. If you are using store-bought smoothie mixes (and powders) and thinking that they are good for you, you maybe mistaken.
– I do my best to live an active life. Even if it is a 30-minute walk, I make sure to get some sort of an exercise every day. If you are not able to do that then you should limit the calories you take in a day. Like I mentioned earlier, smoothies are high in calories and sugar and if you are unable to burn it off, then it might be better to not have any.

Whew… Now that we are clear, here are the reasons why I think 1-smoothie a day is good for you:

They are a great alternative to fruit juices and even ice cream: I have never been much of a fruit juice drinker. However, my husband loves fruity ice teas, orange juice, store-bought so-called healthy drinks so I know how addicting they can be, especially when it is hot outside. My weakness, on the other hand is ice cream. Nothing makes me happier than a bowl of Ben & Jerry’s butter pecan ice cream. However, since we have been regularly having smoothies, we no longer feel the need to drink fruit juices or eating excessive amount of ice cream. We both think smoothies are just as satisfying.

Want to try a fruit-juice like smoothie? Try this Vegan Peach Mango Smoothie. Or love chocolate ice cream? Try this Vegan Banana Split Smoothie.

They are the best afternoon pick-me-up or daily snack: I am sure you know that feeling; 4 o’clock hits and you feel the weight of the day on your shoulders. You need something to get you feel energized again.
Most people think of smoothies as morning food. While I think that is perfectly fine, I also think that smoothies make the best afternoon snack. They immediately give you the energy boost you need and get you going until you are ready for dinner.

You need an afternoon snack, perhaps one that taste like a cake? Try this Banana-Free Carrot Cake Smoothie, Pineapple Acai Bowls or Orange Smoothie.

They are a great way to incorporate healthy produce you don’t enjoy in your diet: You would know this one very well if you have a child who doesn’t like vegetables. The good thing about smoothies is that you can easily blend a cup of spinach (or kale). With the help of sweetness coming from fruits, you can easily disguise the taste while you are still having the nutritional benefits of green leafy vegetables.
Not much of a spinach person? Try this, Peanut Butter and Spinach Shake

They strengthen your immune system: It is no secret that in our modern daily life, we are not consuming the suggested daily intake of fruits and vegetables. However, by blending yourself a cup of smoothie made up of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods, you would easily be able to get your daily need of nutrient-dense foods. As a result, you can increase your vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant intake to strengthen your immune system.

Don’t know where to start? Try this Immune Boosting Multi Colored Beet Smoothies that you can make in 3 different ways.

Regular Bowel Movements: It is a little embarrassing, but this one is my favorite. With one smoothie a day (especially if it is a green smoothie) on a regular basis, you will start having regular bathroom visit and less digestive discomfort, which will eventually help with bloating and even
weight loss.

Whether you are trying to incorporate more vegetables and fruits into your diet or simply trying to cool off with a healthy beverage, I cannot imagine a better than blending up a smoothie. If you agree, make sure to join me as I share a new smoothie recipe with my summer smoothies series every week here on the blog.

Want to continue reading about the benefits of smoothies? Here are a few articles I enjoyed reading on the internet:

Healthy Smoothie HQ: 21 Reasons to Consume Healthy Smoothies
Time Magazine: Should I drink smoothies?
Eating Well: Health Benefits of Juicing vs. Smoothies