Homemade Smoothies

It is quite evident that the sun is no longer on vacation. It is back and ready to show off. The humidity it brings invites sweat and thirst to tag along for the ride. In trying to combat the heat summer brings, we have to stay hydrated. There are so many options; sweet-tea, water, sodas, milkshakes, slushes, and more, but almost all are loaded with unhealthy sugars and calories. They may satisfy your thirst, but they wreak havoc on your health.

Like Daniel, let us choose not to defile our bodies with the food and beverages we consume. “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” (Daniel 1:8) Think about your health and choose wisely!

How about a smoothie?

Well, not all smoothies are created equal. The ones you buy normally contain added sugar too. In addition, you’re not one hundred percent sure the fruits and or vegetables are fresh; they may even be artificial. So I am suggesting “homemade smoothies.”

Not only will a tall glass of ice-cold smoothie quench your thirst, it’ll also provide great health benefits. It’s filled with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also a good source of energy. You get to control all your ingredients…skim, soy, non-fat milk, or you can switch out milk entirely for low-fat yogurt or water. The flavor profile of your smoothie is also in your hands. Try one or a combination of these to elevate the taste: vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. Plus, smoothies are a great way to sneak vegetables in you or your kids’ diet. Kale, spinach, and carrots are a few of my favorites.

Another benefit of smoothies is they’re low in calories yet, so filling that you can actually substitute one for a meal. Swapping breakfast, lunch, or dinner for a glass, will cut your calorie intake in half. This tiny change can also make a difference in weight loss, especially if you add more veggies than fruits and a little protein powder to balance the nutrients value while keeping you fuller for longer—coupled with exercise of course.

As you experiment with homemade smoothies, you’ll realize the fruit and vegetable combinations that you can invent are endless. Every batch can be a new creation—a masterpiece even. You don’t have to be specific in following a recipe, just use whatever is available. Today it may be bananas, spinach, and pineapple. Tomorrow it might be apples, carrots, and pears. Go wild!

Try this Summer-in-a-Glass Smoothie:

• Mango
• Pineapple
• Kale
• Silk coconut milk
• Strawberry low-fat yogurt
• Cinnamon
• Vanilla

NB: (Ice is a must, portion is to your liking, and you can add protein or flax-seed powder if desired)