So I have done a few posts on how important it is to workout consistently to see progress. However your nutrition/diet is key; a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will help you to lose weight faster, sustain energy and ensure that your body gets the requisite daily dose of vitamins. It is proven that many vegetables have more protein when compared to meat or poultry. For example vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli are high in protein, sometimes more than that found in chicken.
Today we are talking about the benefits of incorporating green/fruit smoothies into your diet, as a way to fast track your fitness goals. I challenged myself this past March during Lent, I decided I would replace one meal each day with a smoothie. I made my own smoothies at home from the fruits and vegetables I had in my fridge. I must say its an acquired beverage; as the taste and consistency will depend on the portions/combinations used and the length of time mixture is left to blend. Over time you will learn what works best for you based on your preference.
Top 10 Benefits of Green Smoothies:
- Great source for pure nutrition; though the amount of vitamins and minerals your body gets will depend on the types of fruits and vegetables you use. It should be noted that most fruits are high in vitamin A and C while most green leafy vegetables are high in protein.
- Green Smoothies are easy to make and involves a single process; this most trainers and nutritionists will tell you is best when meal prepping. Any meal that has either single ingredient or a single process to prepare ensures that you are eating clean.
- Provides lasting energy due to the level of nature sugars found in most fruits, when these fruits are combined together your body is able to remain energized longer. Hence a smoothie before and/or after work out is recommended.
- Easy to digest as they are blended and liquefied you body can quicker absorb the nutrients without the extra work to break down the foods. Again this is another reason it is recommended before and after workout, it help to give energy through your workout and helps with muscle recovery right after.
- Low on calories; the fruits and vegetables used in smoothies usually contains a high amount of fibre and water. This will let you feel full without the high caloric intake, while easy on the stomach so you aren't left feeling heavy and bloated.
- Helps to keep the body hydrated, though nothing beats having the recommended 8 glasses of water per day. Having a smoothie will help to increase your water intake by simply adding water to the mixture when blending.
- Inexpensive to prepare, not only does homemade smoothies require one equipment it also costs less. If you compare making a smoothies each morning for breakfast to buying it you would be saving more.
- Clever way to get kids to eat their fruits and veggies; most kids cringe at the sight of broccoli, lettuce or carrots and getting them to eat it would be torture. Smoothie would be a great way to ensure they get a healthy serving of fruits and vegetables without the hassle. This summer try making them smoothie Popsicle, its hot outside and they would have anything to help them stay cool.
- Boosts the immune system's ability to fight off certain illnesses such as the cold and flu. This is because smoothies contains multi-vitamins.
- Healthier than fruit and vegetable juices, when you juice your fruits you extract the liquid leaving being the skin and pulp. However smoothies are made with the whole fruit and it is proven that the skin and seed of most fruits are high in nutrients.
I get most of my smoothie recipes and ideas from My Nguyen the author of a "My Daily Diet" Meal Plan ebook, she does wonders with everyday fruits and vegetables. For great smoothie recipes you can visit her website http://myhealthydish.com/ or follow her on Instagram @myhealthydish_
My challenge to you have a smoothie for breakfast for the next 7 days and see how your body will change both inside and out.
Let me know if you want more information on smoothie recipes and how to make them.
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Peace, Love, Prayers.
The Beautiful One
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