Update your smoothie

Smoothies can make a very healthy breakfast—it's all about the ingredients and keeping reasonable portions. When following healthy parameters, it is okay to have a smoothie for breakfast every day. Super healthy breakfast smoothies are quick and easy to make, and of course, they are delicious too!

When looking for a healthy breakfast smoothie, try to find one that’s low in sugar and high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats so you stay full for longer.

What do you put in a breakfast smoothie?

There are so many options for what you can put in a breakfast smoothie. Each category of ingredients provides different positive benefits. Here are a few of my favorite ideas for what you should put in your morning smoothie:

• Healthy Fats. Your favorite nut butter, coconut milk, or chia seeds. This makes the smoothie more satisfying and keeps you full between meals. Keep portions in mind; 1 tablespoon is usually enough.

• Protein and Fiber Additions. Greek yogurt or your favorite protein powder are easy ways to make breakfast protein smoothies. A tablespoon of oatmeal adds fiber.

• Fruit. Breakfast fruit smoothies are always a crowd-pleasing choice. Strawberries and blueberries are often go-to’s. Bananas make smoothies naturally sweet. Mango and pineapple can hide the taste of greens. Unexpected fruits like apples or watermelon can be scrumptious too.

• Flavor Additions. Vanilla, cinnamon, honey, maple syrup, and dates are all excellent ways to give your smoothie more flavor.

• Liquid. Unsweetened almond milk is a huge favorite for smoothies. You can also use juice (be sure to do this in moderation, since juice is high in sugar but low in fiber), a different kind of milk, coconut water, or even plain water.

Are Breakfast Smoothies Good for Weight Loss?

• Filling breakfast smoothies that are high in protein and low in calories can be good for weight loss. Choosing hearty breakfast smoothies will help make sure you aren’t starving by mid-morning.

Note: The above is a general guideline. For more information or specific recommendations for your own diet, please contact a nutritionist or your doctor.

How to Make Ahead + Store Smoothies

• No time in the morning to whip up a smoothie? NO PROBLEM. You can make most smoothies the night before and store them in the refrigerator.
• To Store. Store blended smoothies in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Place the smoothie in an airtight jar; the less air touching the smoothie, the better. Stir before serving.
• To Make Ahead. Prepare the smoothie as directed, then pour into an airtight freezer-safe mason jar and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Recommended Tools for Making Smoothies

• Blender. A high-powered blender and makes everything very smooth and creamy.
• Stainless Steel Straws. These make everything you drink through them taste so refreshing. Try to keep some in your purse, so you don’t need to ask for a plastic or paper straw when you’re out. They’re great for taking smoothies to go as well.
• Opaque Cup. A great way to make (hide) green-colored breakfast smoothies for kids.

Now, let’s get to those healthy breakfast smoothies!