Making Protein Packed Smoothies that Tastes Delicious!

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Kefir

Whether you decide to use milk kefir or water kefir, this is a great way to add in some super healthy probiotics. Milk kefir specifically has more probiotics than yogurt, so it’s a great source of healthy digestive agents and it can usually even be consumed by those who are lactose intolerant. Water kefir, though it doesn’t contain as much as milk kefir, also has beneficial probiotics that are great added into smoothies. And because kefir is a liquid, it can also provide the liquid you need during blending.

Almond Milk

Almond milk is a healthy way to add liquid to your smoothie as well. It’s non-dairy for those who can’t tolerate or are allergic to milk and other dairy products. It has almost 60% fewer calories and more calcium than milk and is loaded with vitamin E, which means it’s great for your skin. And because of it’s texture, it will add an extra creamy texture to your smoothies.

Banana

No matter what flavor smoothie I’m making, I always add a banana. Bananas are high in potassium, which is great for your muscles and cells. This is especially so if you’re working out. Bananas also add an extra level of creaminess to you smoothies!

Oranges

Oranges are a great way to make an immune boosting, vitamin c rich smoothie! Plus, it’s tastes great! With the aid of a high powered blender, you an simply peel your orange or mandarin and drop the wedges right into the blender. The blender will mix it up so well, you’ll never know you threw in whole orange wedges. And mixed with the right ingredients, you can make a smoothie that tastes like an orange creamsicle, but healthy! I’ve included a recipe for a creamsicle smoothie below!

Frozen Fruit

Whether you decide to use frozen berries, peaches, mangoes or some other sort of fruit, your smoothie is sure to taste amazing! Another great thing about using fruit is that you can make all sorts of flavors so you don’t get bored with your morning smoothie. You can also add in vitamins and minerals you may need. Berries of all sorts are loaded with immune boosting properties, boast antioxidant power and provide fiber to your smoothies. You can learn more about the many benefits of different berries in this HealthLine article.

Nut Butters

Nut butters are a great way to add extra protein and healthy fats to your smoothies. Depending on the nut butter you choose, you can also add an extra bit of flavor to your smoothie. You can also mix nut butters with other ingredients such as coacoa powder to make a tantalizing chocolate – nut butter smoothie when you’re craving something sweet!

Flax Seed Meal

Flax seeds are loaded with super beneficial dietary fiber, omega-3 fats and many other health benefits. And because they have so much great fiber, they also aid in helping to keep you fuller for longer periods of time. This can be a big win if you’re using a smoothie as an in-between meal snack while trying to lose weight.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are packed with a ton of healthy components; including fiber, protein, healthy fats, calcium and even minerals like zinc, magnesium and potassium. Zinc is especially good for the body during cold season. You can learn more about the amazing benefits of chia seeds in this HealthLine article.

Protein Powder

Protein powder is an essential ingredient in smoothies! But it’s important to get the right protein powder. When looking for a protein powder, try to focus on those brands that offer organic, raw blends without the additive of chemicals that may actually be harmful for your body. I use Garden of Life’s raw organic protein and greens mixture. It’s a plant based formula that’s packed with a ton of vitamins and minerals and super dose of healthy greens like kale, broccoli and alfalfa. Protein powders, as the name suggests, are loaded with protein, which helps build healthy muscles and satisfy hunger! This article from the ClevelandClinic provides some great information to help you find a protein powder that’s right for you!

Super Greens

I also use a scoop of powdered super greens in my smoothies. I also sneak a few scoops into various dinner dishes too, just to make sure the kiddos get the necessary vitamins and minerals that greens provide. Personally, I love Nature Plus You’s organic super greens blend. It’s made to blend in well in smoothies or even just water, so it doesn’t leave a gritty feel to your smoothies. I’ve also recently discovered that it has a bit of a sweet taste to it, so it’s also a great natural sweetener for your smoothie.

Greens

I love adding a handfuls of greens, such as spinach or arugula, to my smoothies. Arugula gives smoothies a little bit of a spicy kick, which I personally love. And greens in general are loaded with amazing amounts of vitamins and minerals to help you start the day off right!

Fruit Juice

Because smoothies are packed with whole fruits and other thick ingredients, it’s usually necessary to add a little liquid to your mixture before blending. If you’re going for a real fruity taste, fruit juice can be a great addition to your smoothies. If I’m using fruit juice, I try to make sure it’s 100% juice without any added sugars or other additives. Afterall, you are trying to power pack your morning with a healthy start and sugar does not boast those properties.

Water

If you’re not worried about adding more fruit flavor, water is a great choice as a liquid for your smoothie. I make many of my smoothies with water as the liquid. It’s a great way to put some water in the start of your day and water is just plain good for you! It’s also necessary for proper cell function.