National Smoothies Day

Tomorrow is the Summer Solstice, the official beginning of Summer.  It is also National Smoothies Day.  A perfect fit for a summer snack or meal.

Smoothies start with a base and a liquid.  There are 3 categories of smoothies:

Fruit – contains fruit and fruit juice

Green – includes green leafy vegetables

Protein – consists of a protein like greek yogurt, cottage cheese, tofu or protein powder

These easy to make drinks can help boost your fruit and vegetable intake.  If you use fresh fruits you will also limit sugar.  Fresh fruit is better than adding honey, granulated sugar or maple syrup. 

The American Heart Association recommends limiting sugar intake to 9 teaspoons (37.5 grams) a day for men and 6 teaspoons (25 grams) a day for women.

Private Home Health Care wants to share two protein shakes using JuicePlus Complete Protein Powder.  These are yummy and easy to make and contain 10 grams of sugar, 13 grams of protein and 7 grams of dietary fiber.  Mix in a blender and enjoy!

Snickerdoodle Smoothie

1 cup almond milk, 1 scoop of vanilla JuicePlus Complete, 1 tbsp almond butter, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 4 ice cubes

Peppermint Patty Smoothie

1 cup almond milk, 1 scoop chocolate JuicePlus Complete, ½ tsp peppermint extract, ¼ avocado or plain yogurt, 4 ice cubes