Healthy Summer Smoothies
For those with kids, we know how hard it is to get them to eat healthy fruits and veggies, but sometimes a smoothie can help them get the most nutrients.
Smoothies are great for breakfast, lunch or dinner- or as a fun snack.
Below is my recipe for a smoothie that I love to make for my kids- and they love it!
It is high in many vitamins, minerals, AND fiber!!
Berries– strawberries, raspberries and blueberries make a great combination, in addition to containing powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants help decrease damage to our body’s cells, and can help prevent diseases like cancer and even promote anti-aging benefits. Anti-oxidants are also known to boost our immune system, which can keep the kiddos healthy.
Flax seed– a plant that has been used for centuries to cure stomach and digestive problems. Flax seed contains a high fiber content. Fiber helps to move things along in the colon and correct issues with constipation. Many children suffer from constipation, due to their high carb diets, so this is a great way to keep the bowels regular. Not only is it good for the bowels, but fiber can help decrease blood sugar and prevent diabetes and obesity. And that’s not all that flax seed does…it has Omega-3 oils in it, which help promote cardiovascular health. All these are reasons why I love using this in smoothies…it has a sweet nutty flavor and kids can’t tell that it’s in their smoothie!
Bananas– rich in potassium, which is an essential nutrient for your muscles and your heart. It is also the natural sweetener in the smoothie. Try to use a very ripened banana- or freeze very ripened bananas for future use.
Oatmeal– healthy carbs and good fiber.
Milk– I prefer to use plant based milk- my favorites are sweetened almond milk or Ripple milk- chocolate or vanilla flavored. The plant-based milks are a good source of calcium.
RECIPE
1 Banana- preferably frozen and very ripened, sliced into ½-1 inch slices
¼ cup strawberries
¼ cup raspberries
¼ cup blueberries
2 Tbsp oatmeal
2 Tbsp flax seed- ground or whole
½ cup sweetened almond milk or milk of your choice
1 Tbsp honey- optional if you want added sweetness
Add all ingredients to blender and blend until smooth.
If it is too thick or thin you can add more fruit or more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy!
