Whole Foods Smoothie for Breakfast

I can’t remember the last time I left my house in the morning without my smoothie. It has been my grab-and-go breakfast and often, lunch too. I have seen the benefits of treating myself this way, and my body thanks me for it. There are literally hundreds of ways to make a smoothie, and it all boils down to personal taste. I have experimented a lot over the years, and am always pleasantly surprised what I can come up with.

Because I am dairy free, I omit using milk, yogurt or ice cream (these can add added sugar and calories, so check the label.) But that doesn’t mean I must sacrifice great taste. I use almond or coconut milk in place of milk or yogurt. I also like to add a source of protein, whether it is almonds, almond butter, cashews, or walnuts. Another option is to use Protein Powder.

My favorite brand is Sun Warrior. It is a plant-based protein, that also includes all essential amino acids. There are no added sugars, and it is gluten and dairy free and non-GMO. One single serving is only 100 calories, and has 18g of protein.

When making a smoothie, it is important to consider whether you are just maintaining your weight or if you are trying to lose a few pounds. If it is the latter, you will want to limit the amount of fruit you put in your smoothie. If you want to add some fruit, stay with the low sugar fruits such as berries. I buy the organic strawberries, blueberries and raspberries in the freezer section at the supermarket. That way you don’t wait until they are in season, and can enjoy them all year long. When watching added sugar, make up for sweetness by using fresh lemon, lime, and spices. Yes, those spices like Apple Pie Spice, Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg, Pumpkin Pie Spice. Using an organic apple with cinnamon and you will feel like your drinking a delicious apple pie, less all the added sugar and carbohydrates.

You can’t go wrong when using greens and vegetables. I alternate, based on what I have on hand. Some day’s it’s kale, cucumber, celery, apple, and spices, a 1/2 of avocado (this really thickens up so be careful, a little goes a long way, but will keep you full longer, with the healthy fat), and protein. Another day, it can be arugula, spinach, celery, cilantro, green apple, lemon, lime, almond milk and Sun Warrior protein and a pinch of ginger. Add a little extra fiber with flax and chia seeds. Experiment!

Try making smoothies the next time your contemplating what to have for breakfast. It’s a great way to incorporate healthy, whole foods, and will give you that boost of energy you will need to get through your morning.