A healthy lifestyle is no longer considered a fad but now, an essential aspect in nourishing and protecting our bodies. More people are ‘hitting’ the gym, jogging, brisk walking and involved in any calorie burning or heart pumping exercise. However, it’s not so much about how fast or long you can work out but how well your muscles respond and adjust to any new routine.
And to ensure the aim of losing weight or maintaining a body shape, the right portion of food is vital. Don’t worry; I don’t intend boring you with how best to cook and enjoy your favourite meals. My culinary mission is to brag about why homemade smoothies are so much better. They are not just fancy fitness drinks but a superb and sumptuous way of getting the much-needed five-a-day.
A smoothie is a thick, nutritional and tasty puree of fresh fruits and vegetables blended with either milk, yogurt or even ice cream. The dairy products provide the smooth or slush-like consistency. Without either of these, it’s more of a fruity mush than a velvety nourishment in a cup. To achieve an even creamy texture, bananas are a must. They are an excellent source of potassium, help lower blood pressure and are naturally sweet.
With the ideal base sorted, you can pretty much add any selection of fruit, vegetable or fragrant spices into this mouth-watering drink, provided you can stomach the odd combination. My preferred combo is grapes, strawberries, blueberries, carrots, pineapple, and oranges. More than what the doctor prescribed, isn’t it? And for that instant cold and whippy appearance, you can either freeze some of the ingredients or add few ice cubes before blending.
Now, the informal introduction is over and an easy description of a delectable smoothie provided. Still, why should I spend time washing, peeling and dicing up all sorts of fruits and veg when I can conveniently purchase one from a reputable vendor? As tiresome as it might seem, you stand to gain much more than processed pulp and fresh juice.
- NO ADDED SUGAR OR PRESERVATIVES
The homemade version contains natural sugar and is without preservatives. Notwithstanding, if you prefer to use ice cream as a base, then the sugar content is much higher, and its unkind effect might settle on your hips.
- ITS WAY CHEAPER
The cost of the commercially refined product is, of course, expensive and the reasons behind it is a no-brainer. It might not amount to much until you become quite addicted and eventually, end up drilling a bigger hole in your pocket.
- YOU CREATE YOUR UNIQUE RECIPE
You decide what goes into your drink, especially when you need to manage certain conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol. You could create your ‘green’ infused refreshment using spinach, avocado or any in-season produce. Mix and mash whatever wholesome combo tickles your fancy.
- NO WASTE
Turn leftover fruits or veg into impressive treats such as banana bread. There’s so much to do with that over ripe banana or mushy avocado. Avocados make great and revitalising facial masks. Just dissolve honey into two tablespoons of hot water and mix into mashed avocado. The same applies to mashed banana and avocado, another applaudable treat for all skin types.
So the next time you catch a glimpse of fresh oranges, pawpaw or mango, please consider making a rich and satisfying smoothie.
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