America has seen an explosion of juice bar and smoothie franchises since the early 90’s and health-conscious consumers all over the country have embraced this nutritional drink. The juice and smoothie bar industry now brings in 2 billion dollars a year in the U.S. alone and for good reason. Healthy smoothies are packed full of nutrition and fiber, easy to eat on the go, and thoroughly delicious. 

Unfortunately, many store-bought smoothies are not so healthy. With added sugar and ingredients like sherbet and ice-cream in the blender, what may look like a nutritional snack on the surface can turn out to be a very unhealthy choice. Luckily, there is now an abundance of frozen fruit available at your local supermarket and it’s never been easier or cheaper to prepare a truly healthy option at home in less than 5 minutes. 

We’ve put together a comprehensive smoothie guide to help you create your own delicious drink, you’ll just need a few simple ingredients from your kitchen and a good blender. For added health benefits, try adding a Parker Naturals supplement like Berry Green Superfood, Beet Root Powder or Chocolate Superfood Brain Supplement to the mix. 

Step 1. Liquid (approx 1 cup) 

• Water is great zero calorie choices if you’re watching your waistline. For a little extra flavor with no added calories substitute with a cup of your favorite cold herbal tea.
• Milk (Low fat, almond or soy) will add a creamy texture to your drink and boost the nutritional value with added calcium and protein.
• Coconut Water for extra hydration and added electrolytes. 

Step 2. Supplements

Supplements are an effective, easy and comprehensive way to add extra health benefits to your smoothie. 

Try Parker Naturals Berry Green Superfood for a powerful blast of protein and antioxidants or our energizing Beet Root Powder which is full of essential B vitamins and is specially formulated for improved heart health. If you’ve got an important morning meeting, throw in a scoop of our Chocolate Superfood Brain Supplement for a delicious way to support your focus and concentration. 

Step 3. Greens (approx 2 handfuls)

Greens are a great source of protein, fiber, calcium and iron. Throw in a couple of handfuls and don’t be afraid to mix and match depending on what you have in your fridge 

• Kale
• Spinach
• Beet greens
• Chard
• Collard Greens 

Step 4. Fruit (1-2 cups)

Avoid waste by throwing ripe fruit from your kitchen into the freezer or use pre-prepared frozen fruit from the supermarket. If you’re using fresh fruit, be sure to add a little ice to give your smoothie a delicious frosty texture. 

• Bananas are full of potassium and also act as a great thickening agent and base.
• Strawberries, raspberries and blueberries are rich in antioxidants.
• Peaches, plums, apples and pears are rich in fiber.
• Mangos, pineapples and papayas add a tropical flavor and lots of vitamin C. 

Step 5. Unsaturated fats

Despite the bad press, some fats are good for you! Unsaturated fats can improve blood cholesterol levels and are important for everything from brain function to cell growth. A little goes a long way here, so pay close attention to your portion sizes. 

• ½ Avocado
• 1 Tablespoon of nut butter (peanut, almond)
• 1 Tablespoon of flax seeds 

Step 6. Flavor Boost!

If you want to give your smoothie an additional boost of flavor, try adding these spices and powders to taste. 

• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Vanilla
• Unsweetened cocoa powder 

A truly nutritious smoothie should contain no added sugar, plenty of protein and fiber to satisfy your hunger along with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. If you follow our easy recipe guide and remember to add an extra nutritional blast with Parker Naturals Berry Green Superfood, Beet Root Powder oor our Chocolate Superfood Brain Supplement, you’ll be preparing delicious, satisfying and healthy smoothies in minutes.

Parker Naturals

Parker Naturals strives to take every step necessary to keep our customers smiling and helping them achieve vibrant health! This includes, but is not limited to, starting right by providing you with nothing but pure ingredients that are free of harmful contaminants.

Our premium supplements contain absolutely zero fillers, binders, or additives and are proudly developed and manufactured in the U.S.A. in world-class FDA-approved facilities. Our customers’ health and safety are our top priority. Quality is more than a word. It’s something we prove to you every day!

References:

https://myvega.com/recipes/diy-vega-base-green-smoothie/?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Get+the+Recipe&utm_content=NLN+Jan+13+2018&utm_campaign=NLN+Jan+13+2018&_bta_tid=40618402015476406008112132964555587133219596827505117189199717682725028116210224141647061656695746830598&_bta_c=fymhw66ccv4vmormz86cdjen57utq

http://www.eatingwell.com/article/277310/healthy-smoothies-best-smoothie-ingredients-10-to-ditch/

http://therelaxnation.com/2012/02/fruit-smoothie-basics-how-to-make-your-own-healthy-blend/#sthash.Tso3jGhS.dpbs https://www.soberjulie.com/2014/06/make-smoothie-basics/

https://www.rd.com/health/diet-weight-loss/7-tricks-to-make-a-healthy-smoothie/

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/types-of-fat/ https://greenblender.com/smoothies/777/smoothie-greens-guide