Who doesn't like smoothies? They are a fun source of nutrients and minerals and can also cool you down on a hot day. Let's be honest-we're not all good at making them, and sometimes we just want to throw in the towel. Don't give up! Fruits and vegetables are jam-packed with nutrients, so even if you're in a hurry, a smoothie is a great on-the-go meal.
Some people use them as a meal replacement, others as a post-workout meal. Either way, smoothies can play a big part in a diet that brings us one step closer to a healthy body.
Best vegetables
Here are a few great vegetables that will give your smoothies a nutritious punch.
- Avocados – Have a smooth, creamy texture that helps make your smoothie blend better. They don't have a strong flavor so they add nutrients while not overwhelming other ingredients.
- Cucumbers – Have a very distinct taste, but it is light and crisp and will help you wake up in the morning.
- Kale – Is one of the best vegetables you could add to your smoothie. It has multiple nutrients and very few calories.
- Spinach – Will add nutrients and has a quiet flavor, so it also won't mess with any other tastes.
- Fennel – Is good to add to a morning smoothie as it helps with your immune system.
- Zucchini – Has a slightly sweet flavor and is high in fiber, to help with digestion.
Best fruits
Here are some fruits to give your smoothie lots of minerals and vitamins and to help make it sweeter.
- Apples – They don't always make the best smoothies on their own because of the tart taste they can have and their texture, but when paired with other fruits and vegetables they can help balance bland vegetables or make a too-sweet fruit more interesting.
- Bananas – Are very common in smoothies as they make a great, smooth base and have a great amount of potassium.
- Kiwi – Might sound a little uncommon but it's sweet and has a great amount of fiber and vitamin C.
- Watermelon – Is great for smoothies, but it does have a high water content so you'll need to have a base fruit or vegetable to help thicken it up. It's also good for amino acids.
Which one is more filling?
There really isn't a specific fruit or vegetable that can fill you up. However, there are nutrients and vitamins that definitely play a part in helping you feel fuller. It's good to understand which nutrients and vitamins come from which fruit and which vegetable.
Anything high in fiber, protein and vitamin A will be your best choices. Fill your smoothie with solids such as apples, avocados, bananas and zucchini. The thickness of the smoothie will also play a part in making you fill up quicker, as it takes longer to drink it than one filled with water-based foods like watermelon and grapes. So pick the best fruits and vegetables you can and start making smoothies-you and your body will be glad you did.