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I have always been a fruit smoothie fan and make them often at home. But, I viewed them more as a treat or a refreshing breakfast drink rather than a healing elixir or diet option.

After watching the documentary “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead” I am sold on the benefits of blending or juicing fruits and vegetables. Although the movie focused more on juices than smoothies, I personally prefer blending the ingredients.

When you juice foods you are left with liquid, but throw away most of the bulk. When they are blended you are left with a more filling, high fiber meal replacement. Though, fresh juice is definitely a healthy option, if you are like me and prefer the smoothie route, here are some good options for you to try!

Green Smoothie

This recipe is super simple. All you need is a blender and the following ingredients:

• 1-2 bananas
• 1/2 cup frozen peaches
• 1/2 cup frozen mango
• a couple handfuls of spinach
• water

Add just enough water to blend and enjoy, that’s it! Forget the dehydrating morning latte and get the glow with a Green Smoothie instead.

Green Smoothie Popsicle

Green Smoothie Popsicle Ingredients:

• 2 cups spinach
• 2 cups frozen berries (your choice)
• 2 bananas
• 1 cup water

Blend until creamy smooth, pour into Popsicle molds, freeze and enjoy a healthy snack as a treat. Going green never tasted so good!

Morning Green Juice

This recipe makes approximately 32 ounces.

• 2 large cucumbers (peeled if not organic)
• big fistful of kale
• big fistful of sweet pea sprouts
• 4–5 stalks celery
• 1–2 big broccoli stems
• 1 pear or green apple (optional)
•  1 inch of ginger (or less)

Other optional greens we love: romaine, parsley, spinach and dandelion.

Another Green Smoothie

I made this one for breakfast with unsweetened vanilla almond milk instead of yogurt. It was great!

Ingredients:

Vodka Smoothie Recipe

A fun twist on the typical smoothie for a healthy adult beverage.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups ice
• 2 ounces vodka
• 2 ounces fresh orange juice
• 1 banana, peeled
• 5 strawberries, stems removed, plus more sliced, for garnish
• 2 clementines, peeled

Breakfast Smoothie

I learned the hard way that cheap blenders do not work well for smoothies and frozen drinks! After months of trying to make a $30 blender turn my frozen fruits into a smooth beverage, I finally gave in and invested in a decent blender. I bought the KitchenAid Metallic 5-Speed Blender and love it! It is my favorite appliance. Though, I have friends and clients who swear by the Vitamix Blender …maybe someday!