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Drinking a smoothie is a fast, portable and tasty way to give your body the nutrients it needs… if the right ingredients are used. Below are seven healthy ingredients to add to your smoothie to ensure you start your day filled with energy!
1. Protein Powder
Adding protein powder is a guaranteed way to make your smoothie more filling. With the numerous options of protein powders available, it’s easy to choose the right one for your needs. The hemp-based protein powders are great for vegans and vegetarians, whereas whey protein helps with muscle gain.
One of the best protein supplements for weight loss is casein protein, whey protein, or a combination of the two.
2. Flax &Â Chia Seeds
Perfect for adding into your smoothie, ground flax seeds provide us with healthy omega-3 fats, protein, and fibre. If you prefer your smoothie to be smooth, consider purchasing a flax powder instead.
Chia seeds are also rich in omeg-3 fats and fibre, in addition to being a great source of calcium. Keep in mind that chia seeds and powder will both thicken when mixed into liquids.
3. Coconut
Whether in liquid or powdered form, coconut fruit provides many benefits. Besides providing us with nearly fat-free hydration and electrolytes, coconut provides us with energy and healthy fats for absorption.
4. Nut &Â Seed Butters
As ironic as it may seem, a little bit of fat in your smoothie is not a bad thing! Instead, healthy fats help with absorbing fat-soluble vitamins like A and E. A little bit of a natural butter from a healthy nut or seed can provide your smoothie with just enough healthy fat. Consider making your own hemp butter by mixing hemp hearts, hemp oil, and butter in a food processer.
5. Greens
We all know that a healthy diet includes plenty of vegetables, but have you considered getting some of those vegetables easily ingested via your morning smoothie?
Throwing in a handful of kale or spinach into your smoothie can add extra vitamins and minerals, including healthy polyphenols. Another option is to use a green-vegetable powder or some liquid greens to fulfill this requirement.
6. Kefir
Adding kefir into your smoothie is a great alternative to regular yogurt or milk. As a fermented milk drink made with milk from goats, sheep or cows, many people find kefir easier to digest compared to whole milk. Kefir can also be made from soy or other dairy alternatives.
7. Cacao
For chocolate lovers, cacao provides a great alternative for adding a chocolatey taste to your smoothie – without the added fat and sugars. Cacao beans are full of flavonoids and have their nutrients left largely intact since they’re not overly processed like regular chocolate. Look for cacao powder or nibs (pieces of the bean) to add to your smoothie.
Brant Arts IDA Has Your Smoothie Ingredients!
Want to start your day off right each morning by enjoying a flavourful and energizing smoothie? If so, come to Brant Arts IDA to pick up a few ingredients! We carry many of the items listed above.
In addition, ask our experts for their knowledgeable advice on what supplements and vitamins you can take with your smoothies.
