Smoothie starters

A common question I get asked is what to use as a liquid base for delicious and nutritious smoothies. Many recipes call for ice. Depending on your blender, ice is used to keep the smoothie from warming up during blending, which can cause a loss of some of the nutrients. There are many good options for liquids, including the following:

Filtered water

If you find yourself tired throughout the day, it may be due to lack of hydration. When you are adequately hydrated, your body can flush out toxins, and you will find that you have more energy. Your body needs water, and most people do not get enough. Use fresh, filtered water for a cheap, easy and healthy smoothie base.

Raw organic coconut water

The health benefits of coconut are far reaching. Coconut water is loaded with electrolytes and potassium, which the body needs when it is expending a lot of energy. Using coconut water as a base for your smoothie is a great option if you are getting ready to work out. It also gives you a good start in the morning if you have a busy day planned and it is low in calories.

Organic green tea

Green tea has been researched for its amazing ability to help fight cancer, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. It contains massive amounts of polyphenols, which are a particular type of antioxidant. Green tea will refresh and rejuvenate skin cells giving you a clearer complexion.

Organic coconut milk

If you prefer a smoother base for your healthy drink, try organic coconut milk. Coconut milk is squeezed from the meat of the coconut and has a refreshing and sweet taste. It is high in protein, fiber, micronutrients and healthy saturated fat. Be sure to buy only milk that has no additional ingredients.

Yogurt

Yogurt makes for a thicker base but helps with masking strong flavours and adds probiotics to your smoothie.

Here are three recipes you can also use as bases for smoothies.

Great Green Mix

§  Celery – 2 pieces

§  Cucumber – ½

§  Kale – handful

§  Apple – 1 small

§  Parsley – a few pieces

§  Lemon – ½

§  Ginger – ½-inch piece

Cleanser and Antioxidant Mix

§  Beets – 1 small

§  Carrots – a few small

§  Apples – 1 small

§  Blackberries – handful

§  Ginger – ½-inch piece

Digestive Mix

§  Parsley – a few sprigs

§  Spinach – handful

§  Watercress – handful

§  Ginger – ½-inch piece

If you are after just a little natural sweetener for your smoothie, try juicing an apple, citrus, carrots or beets and adding this juice to your smoothie.