Smoothies are a great way to get in additional nutrients into your everyday diet. Natalie Rizzo details in her article titled, “Surprising Foods to Add to Your Smoothie” about the new ways to incorporate healthy foods into smoothies. Her first ingredient she suggests adding to a smoothie is almond flour for its ability to increase protein, vitamins and fiber in a diet with fewer carbohydrates. Almond flour is made from almonds and can also be added to yogurts. Another food item to add to smoothies are chia seeds. They contain antioxidants, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds will expand when placed in liquids so remember to not let your smoothie sit too long or it will become gelatinous. Many juices can be added to smoothies for extra taste but pomegranate juice is a particularly good choice. This juice has a high polyphenol content, which can help with post-workout recovery. It is best to purchase 100% pomegranate juice with no added sugar. Pomegranate juice also has as much potassium as a medium-sized banana, which can help with hydration.
Matcha is another ingredient that can be beneficial to add to smoothies. Matcha are ground up green tea leaves that contain a higher antioxidant amount than regular green tea. Matcha contains ECGC that increases resting and post-exercise fat metabolism. The antioxidants found in matcha can help with post-workout inflammation. Avocados are rich in healthy fats (monounsaturated), vitamins (A,D and E), minerals and phytochemicals. They add a creamy texture and almost 300 calories. 1/4 of an avocado can be added to a smoothie for a creamier taste with less calories when watching weight.
Kefir is cultured milk that contains probiotics. Probiotics are helpful for the gut by increasing its health and immune function. Kefir has a high protein content, approximately 11 grams in 8 oz. It is also rich in calcium and vitamin D. Kefir has a tangy taste so it may be helpful to add it to a smoothie that is sweeter. The final suggested food item to add to smoothies is Montmorency tart cherry juice. It contains high antioxidants and can decrease muscle damage after doing strength training. As with Kefir, it may be best to add it to a sweeter smoothie due to its tart taste. For more ways to keep yourself healthy, please visit our website at www.oxborochiro.com.
Source: http://www.muscleandfitness.com/nutrition/healthy-recipes/7-surprising-foods-add-your-smoothie
