Smoothies are an essential summertime breakfast or snack. They’re light, refreshing, and a great way to sneak in extra nutrition. With temps creeping higher, smoothies offer hydration and nutrition with minimal effort. 

Smoothies are a great way to use both Manitoba Milling Smooth Whole Milled Flaxseed and Flax Milk for an added boost of nutrition.

It is, however, important to remember that not all smoothies are created equal. It ultimately comes down to the ingredients. 

Below are a few tips for ordering or creating a healthier smoothie.

Make it Last

If a smoothie contains primarily fruits and juices, it can provide a quick boost of energy but leave you feeling hungry soon after.

To prevent this quick rise and fall in blood sugar – add a source of protein, fiber, or healthy fat. This is the key to make your smoothie a more satisfying and satiating meal or snack.

How to do it…

Rather than blending your smoothie with juice, use a dairy or plant based milk.

Just 1 cup of Manitoba Milling Flax Milk will add 3 grams of dietary fiber, 3 grams of plant based protein, and 3310mg of ALA Omega-3s!

Nuts, seeds, or nut and seed butters can also contribute protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Manitoba Milling Smooth Whole Milled Flaxseed offers the same nutrition as the milk mentioned above and is a great addition to make your smoothie a little more filling. Plus, because of its smooth texture and mild flavor it makes a addition to any smoothie

Go Green

Green smoothies are more than just Instagram worthy, they’re great for packing in extra nutrition without negatively impacting the taste. 

Most people fall short on vegetable intake throughout the day, and this is a simple and tasty way to get an extra serving (or two) with your breakfast, lunch, or snack. Plus it can be a great way to help choosier eaters or kids get in their greens! 

How to do it…

Spinach seems to blend in the best, but kale works well too. Both options offer vitamins A and K, folate, and antioxidants. Add 1-2 handfuls of greens and balance it out with a serving of fruit. Try this recipe to see how!

Don’t be afraid to experiment with other veggies too. Cauliflower and sweet potato are also fairly mild tasting and even carrots work well too!

Naturally Sweeten with Fruit 

Many smoothies, while marketed as ‘healthy’ can be loaded with added sugars from various types of juice mixes, protein powders, coconut water, honey, agave or other sweeteners. 

Fruit is naturally sweet and often doesn’t need anything extra to boost the naturally sweet taste. This Tropical Green Smoothie recipe uses pineapple, which provides plenty of natural sweetness – no additional honey or maple syrup necessary! 

How to do it…

Choose 1-2 fruits, adding up to 1 cup total of fruit.

Rather than blending with sweetened juice or coconut water, blend with water, milk, or an unsweetened or lightly sweetened plant based milk (try our new Unsweetened Flax Milk coming soon!).

Boost It

“Boosters” are ingredients that add additional flavor, texture, or nutrition. Spices, protein powders, nut and seed butters, milld flaxseed, or fresh herbs all make great smoothie boosters.

Manitoba Milling Smooth Whole Milled Flaxseed is incredibly smooth and blends seamlessly into any smoothie recipe without altering the taste or texture.

Just one serving (2 tablespoons) provides 3g of ALA Omega 3 (meeting your daily needs!), 4g of dietary fiber, and 3g of plant based protein.

How to do it…

Add 1-2 tablespoons of nuts, seeds, or a nut or seed butter. Spices and herbs can be a bit stronger so stick with ~1 tablespoon of fresh herbs and ~1 teaspoon of spices but adjust to your taste preference.

Use a Spoon

While slurping down a smoothie through a straw is convenient, it can make you consume a meal (or snack) much quicker than you normally would. Try using a spoon to slow down, be more mindful, and pay attention to your hunger and fullness. 

How to do it…

Instead of serving your smoothie in a glass, pour it into a wide mouth mason jar or a cereal bowl.

Topping your smoothie with granola, nuts, seeds, coconut flakes, or other toppings. Enjoying your smoothie with a spoon will help you engage in the act of eating, be more mindful, and prevent overeating.

What are your favorite summer smoothies? Try some of ours here or follow our Smoothie Board on Pinterest, here.