Opening its doors in 1990, the first “Juice Bar”–later named Jamba Juice–set the stage for the successful and ever-expanding smoothie and juice industry, according to the U.S. Juice and Smoothie Bar Industry Analysis. Smoothies or “super food” drinks have become a quick alternative to fast-food for the health-conscious. They are often a blended mixture of fruits, yogurt, milk ice, and sometimes a “booster” like protein, gingko biloba or vitamin C. Green smoothies, in particular, have the added benefit of nutritious raw vegetables. The Got Greens website warns that the pasteurization process involved in many store-bought green smoothies destroys live cultures and reduces the nutritional value. Smoothies made with fresh ingredients are the most nutritious.
Good Source of Nutrients
In a fast-paced, fast food society, many people not consume nearly enough fruits and vegetables (or “greens”) each day. A diet lacking in vegetables and fruits is consequently lacking in many essential vitamins and minerals. Made from whole foods, not supplements, green smoothies are an excellent source of protein, calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin C, K, and A, the B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, folate and fiber. For example, a 12 oz. orange, banana, and Swiss chard smoothie from Veggie Venture has 5g protein, 8g fiber, 1g fat, 98mg calcium and 2mg iron. Green smoothies are also rich in antioxidants, live enzymes and phytonutrients, which strengthen the immune system, according to Got Green.
Aid in Weight Management
Green smoothies can help with natural weight loss and the maintenance of a healthy weight. They are satisfying, they reduce food cravings and they promote the good habit of eating more greens, especially for children. Digestive efficiency is also improved. The ratio of nutrients–60 percent ripe organic fruit and 40 percent organic greens–is perfect for human consumption, making them easy to digest. Slower digestion hinders down the entry of sugar into your bloodstream, curbing hunger. This develops the sensation of being full or satisfied, and generally, you will consume fewer calories.
Tasty and Inexpensive
Because there are generally more fruits than vegetables in green smoothies, the sweet taste overrides the bitter, causing them to be palatable, even for children. They are a quick, accessible and healthy alternative to fast food, as smoothie shops continue to open. They are also inexpensive to make at home. Fresh produce is generally inexpensive, especially if you use fruits and vegetables such as bananas, apples, pears, lemons, zucchini, cucumber, lettuce, cabbage and squash. A blender, fresh produce and a recipe are all you need to bring green smoothies and their nutritional benefits into your home.
About this Author
Ashley Armstrong has her M.S.Ed. in health and human performance: health education. She is a certified personal trainer, indoor cycling instructor, and AFAA aerobics and kickboxing instructor. She and her husband love being active, outdoor sports, and cooking delicious, healthy meals. Armstrong believes life is a gift that is meant to be lived to the “fullest,” and living healthy is a great start.
