Smoothies are a blender’s best friend. They’re quick, easy, and healthy–or at least that’s what we’re told. But what really happens to your body when you drink a smoothie every day?
Let’s take a closer look.
Increases consumption of fruits and vegetables
Eating enough fruits and vegetables is crucial to good health. One to two or three cups a day of each can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing some types of cancers, lower the risk of developing diabetes, and reduce cardiovascular and stroke risk.
Increases fiber intake
Fiber helps the digestive system and may help reduce the chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, and colon cancer. Some high fiber foods to add to smoothies include raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, pears, apples, bananas, dark leafy green vegetables, chia seeds, sunflower kernels, ground flaxseed, and almond butter, to name just a few.
Can be a meal replacement
If you’re trying to lose weight or simply watch your calorie intake, substituting a smoothie for a meal can help you reach your goals. Just be sure to make your smoothie filling by adding protein-rich ingredients such as yogurt, milk, tofu, peanut butter or almond butter.
Boosts energy levels
Smoothies made with fresh fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals which help convert food into energy. If you find yourself dragging in the afternoon, consider reaching for a smoothie instead of coffee or an energy drink.
Promotes hair and skin health
The nutrients in fruits and vegetables can also promote healthy hair and skin. For instance, beta-carotene found in carrots (and other orange veggies) can help keep skin supple while also providing protection against sun damage while vitamin C found in berries helps produce collagen which keeps skin looking young and fresh. As for hair health, copper helps prevent graying while biotin strengthens strands from root to tip.
Aids in digestion
Not only does fiber help keep things moving along but the liquid content of smoothies also aids in digestion by keeping things hydrated. And when things are running smoothly (pun intended), the entire body benefits including the brain which requires gut bacteria for optimal function according to recent studies.
Detoxifies the body
Many fruits and vegetables are known for their detoxifying properties thanks to their high water and fiber content which helps flush out toxins as well as potentially harmful substances like excess cholesterol and fat from the body naturally.
Reduces inflammation
Some ingredients often used in smoothies such as turmeric , ginger , pineapple , kale , parsley , collard greens , spinach , almonds , chia seeds , avocados , and blueberries have all been shown to help fight inflammation thanks to their antioxidant properties .
Lowers stress levels
The nutrients in fruits and vegetables can also help lower stress hormone levels in the body while also increasing levels of feel-good hormones like serotonin which helps improve mood .
Improves cognitive function
Because some of the nutrients found in smoothies like omega-3 fatty acids , flavonoids , carotenoids , vitamin E , magnesium , B vitamins
Conclusion
There are plenty of good reasons to make drinking a smoothie part of your daily routine but it’s important to remember that not all smoothies are created equal .
Be sure yours contains plenty of fresh fruits vegetables
Additional Tips
Use frozen fruit instead of ice cubes whenever possible Stick with mostly veggies with just a few pieces fruit for low sugar options Choose yogurt kefir or milk for added protein stay full longer Get creative experiment different flavor combinations And as always speaking with your doctor before making any major changes to your diet is always advised .