Friday, October 7, 2011

Drink to Good Health!

Photo by Phototogo2 on Morguefile.com

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Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.
Genesis 1:29 NIV

Eating healthy food isn’t always easy since most of us are constantly on the run. Who has time for elaborate meal preparation? Fast food isn’t just fast to order and eat. It doesn’t take any time at all for the calories to plant themselves on our hips and midsections. Although that burger and fries may be filling, they don’t provide the nutrition you need to stay healthy.

In order to get my daily fruits and veggies, I whip up smoothies for breakfast and afternoon snacks. You’ll need a blender, some basic ingredients, and a to-go cup for days when you’re on the run.

Berry Breakfast Smoothie

This smoothie is a delicious way to start any day. You’ll get the protein, fruit, and heart-loving omega-3 fatty acids—all in one healthy drink!

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or apple juice
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup frozen berries
• 1 small banana (or 1/2 large one)
• 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 tbsp. ground flax seed
• Dash of cinnamon

Pour the oats into the blender and turn it on to grind them into a fine powder. Add the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour and drink for an excellent, nutritious start to any day.

Photo by Alvimann on Morguefile.com


Green Smoothie

A delicious way to have your veggies is to drink them in your afternoon smoothie. This may sound like an odd combination, but after you taste it, you’ll probably be hooked.

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup of chopped kale
• 1/2 cup of frozen spinach
• 1/2 cup of frozen pineapple
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• 1 tsp. agave nectar (optional)

Put all the ingredients into the blender and blend until smooth. If you prefer a sweet drink, the agave nectar will give you just enough sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.

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