Living with chronic pain and fatigue can be exhausting and overwhelming. If you're like me, the convenience of smoothies is a relief, providing a quick and easy solution to getting the protein, vitamins, and minerals our bodies require.
Smoothies, the powerhouse of nutrition, can energize you, boost your immunity, and curb hunger.
However, without the right ingredients, your smoothies might be high in sugar and low in nutritional value, leading to low energy and excess empty calories. For instance, adding sugary fruit juices or sweetened yogurt can significantly increase the sugar content of your smoothie while providing little nutrients. Similarly, a smoothie made solely with fruits and lacking vegetables or protein sources can leave you craving more essential nutrients.
Smoothies are the ultimate time-saver.
They can be prepared the night before or even a week's worth in one go. They're the perfect on-the-go option for work, providing a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack. Smoothies can be a refreshing start to your day, deliciously meeting your daily fruit and veggie requirements. The variety of recipes available ensures that you never get bored!
Considering all the smoothie recipes available, figuring out the best way to make nutritious smoothies that fuel our bodies can be challenging.
Are smoothies healthy?
Smoothies are healthy and a source of endless excitement and adventure. With countless ways to make them and many smoothie recipes to explore, you'll always be energized and have something new and exciting to try.
Here are my favorite tips and tricks for smoothie making:
Tip #1: Selecting Recipes
Collect smoothie recipes that fuel your body.
Choose whole foods and avoid added sugar.
When selecting recipes, look for those that balance fruits, vegetables, and protein sources, and avoid those with added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Browse and make a list of your favorite smoothie recipes. I recommend sticking with only 2-3 recipes to repeat the entire week. Remember, the less work, the better!
Tip #2: Stock up on smoothie staples
Alternatively, you can buy essential smoothie ingredients and experiment with your recipes. These staples, such as fresh or frozen fruits and veggies, water or milk of choice, and a source of protein, are nutrient-rich and beneficial to your health.
Here is the basic recipe for a delicious and nourishing smoothie:
Fruits/Veggies + Water or Milk of Choice + Source of Protein
You can also add honey, maple syrup, dates, or a banana to help sweeten your smoothie. These natural sweeteners not only enhance flavor but also offer added nutrients. Spinach, cauliflower, or zucchini are my favorite veggies; they last longer in the fridge and are nutrient-dense. Buying various frozen fruits can also help save money and ensure you always have a supply available while providing a variety of flavors and nutrients.
Tip #3: Add protein
Add a source of protein to help you feel full throughout the day and eliminate cravings. Here are my favorite ingredients to up the protein content in my smoothies:
Hemp hearts
Ground flax seeds
Ground chia seeds
Protein powder - read the label to ensure there's no added sugar
Milk of choice
Greek yogurt
Rolled oats
You can also keep a supply of assorted nuts/seeds for an extra energy boost between meals.
Tip #4: Up your smoothie prep game
To save time, portion your ingredients into plastic baggies or containers so they're ready to blend, grab, and go in the morning. Many fruits and veggies also hold up in the freezer.
Regarding kitchen gadgets to simplify smoothie-making, here's our favorite personal blender (affiliate link) with on-the-go containers, making the process a snap.
Find this recipe (plus a lot more!) in MASTERING MEALTIME, our system for fueling against chronic pain and fatigue by giving your body what it needs without zapping all your energy!
Disclaimer
Fibromyalgia is not a "one size fits all" diagnosis. What works for some doesn't work for others. The information provided is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Should you have any health-related questions, please consult your physician or other health care provider promptly.
This blog contains affiliate/referral links, which means we may make a small commission as an Amazon associate if you purchase anything through these links, at no additional cost to you.
Teresa & Hannah are fellow fibromyalgia warriors. Teresa is a wellness ambassador and retired nutrition professional. Hannah is an occupational therapist. Together, we're a mother-daughter duo on a mission to empower others to fight against fibro.
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