How healthy is that one-a-day smoothie habit?
If it were up to you, smoothies would be their own food group.
After all, theres rarely a day you miss slurping one, making you the ultimate smoothie lover.
Photographer: Brie Passano, Food Stylist: Annie Probst, Prop Stylist: Holly Raibikis
Smoothies are convenient and refreshing, and you’re able to enjoy them any time of day.
But there can be a downside to smoothies, too.
So, is it OK to drink one every day?
A smoothie is a thick beverage served cold thats most commonly made with a mixture of fruits and vegetables.
Common Ingredients
There arehundreds of smoothie recipes, each with a different mix of ingredients.
However, other colored produce could make its way into these smoothies as well.
Fruit Smoothies:These smoothies lean heavily into fruits.
you might make a smoothie with almost any fruit, whether its fresh, canned or frozen.
Bananas and berries tend to be popular fruits in these smoothies, but any can make their way in.
Protein Smoothies:These smoothies are designed to amp up the protein in your diet.
Because protein is required for muscle growth and repair, these smoothies are a favorite among fitness enthusiasts.
They can also be made quickly (hence, the popularity ofbreakfast smoothies) or purchased easily.
Related:Are Protein Shakes Good for Weight Loss?
This can make it easier for you to overeat.
Fast sipping means you might still have room to eat, increasing your odds ofovereating.
Just check the added sugars, as many contain high amounts.
Savor Your Smoothie:Smoothies arent something to be downed in one gulp but enjoyed over time.
Shapira says that if you have trouble slowing down, enjoy only half the smoothie.
After 15 minutes, decide if you want the second half.
To diversify your diet, add different recipes to your weekly rotation.
Smoothies can help with weight loss.
The choice hinges on what you prefer and what suits your lifestyle better.
However, eating a whole fruit may help you feel more satisfied due to the chewing process.
While smoothies can include various ingredients, Scott recommends a combination of protein, fiber and unsaturated fat.
