They’re so simple to make, offer grab-and-go convenience and can be customised to your taste. Plus, you can pack them full of veggies to help you reach your five serves a day.
You may love them, but do you find yourself wondering why you feel hungry straight after drinking them? This guide provides you with an easy formula to build a perfectly balanced smoothie that will help keep you feeling full and firing on all cylinders this summer.
Firstly, Are Smoothies Good For Me?
The short answer is: sometimes. They’re a great option when you’re time poor, need an easy portable breakfast that can pack in the nutrients or to get some extra fruit, veggies, nuts and seeds into the kids. If you’re overloading it with sweeteners and forgetting the healthy fats, protein and complex carbs, then you are likely consuming something that’s high in calories but not satisfying—so you’ll be hungry five minutes after drinking it. The best smoothies don’t just taste great, they’re also nutritionally balanced—with a nice mix of healthy wholefoods, good fats and protein. A well-made smoothie can be a healthy choice at any time of the day and is a great alternative to skipping meals completely. It’s just a matter of getting the balance right.
So What’s The Perfect Formula?
Have fun with fruit: Include at least one fruit and if you like a creamy smoothie, frozen bananas are a great addition for taste and texture. Using frozen fruits are also a good way to help with food waste and use up fruit that may be past its best. Chop them up and store in a container in the freezer ready to be blended.
Pack It With Protein: Include a protein to help keep you feeling fuller for longer. You can add soy or dairy milk, yoghurt and nut butters for a tasty smoothie-friendly protein hit.
Don’t Forget The Veg: Add at least one veggie such as baby spinach, carrot or cucumber for maximum nutrition and fibre. Adding vegetables to your smoothie is a simple way to help you reach your goal of five serves a day. Most blend easily without altering the taste.
Go For Good Fats: Include healthy fats like nut butters, seeds or avocado for longer satisfaction. Avocado can also help give your smoothie a nice creamy texture without impacting on flavour.
Grab a grain: Adding wholegrains to your smoothies is a great way to help meet your recommended 48g of wholegrains per day. Plus they can help you feel fuller for longer and help make the smoothie nice and thick. Add wholegrains such as 1 WeetBix, ¼ cup rolled oats or dates.
Slow Down And Enjoy
If you can, take the time to sip it and savour the taste. Studies have shown that eating slowly and mindfully helps with a feeling of fullness and satisfaction. When you’re eating (or drinking!) too quickly, your body doesn’t get a chance to signal to the brain that you’re getting full and should probably stop eating.
Head to our website for some delicious smoothie ideas!
