Life Time Fitness, 9 Perfect Smoothie Ingredients

Smoothies are easy, quick and healthy meals. Here are some great ingredients to add in to get an extra healthy kick in your cup!

1. Whey Protein Powder

Whey protein is a pure protein that your body will absorb. It’s affordable (check out Life Time Fitness Whey or Davinci whey. Put in trainer code 107832 and save 10%)! It helps repair and build muscle after a strength workout.

2. Avocado

Zero sugar, tons of monounsaturated fat, a variety of vitamins and minerals, and a complete protein to boot. And, more importantly, it adds the perfect creaminess to smoothies. One or two tablespoons will go a long ways.

3. Fresh or Frozen Banana

I love bananas but frozen bananas are nice if they get e little too ripe. They add creaminess and a little sweetness to any smoothie.

4. Egg Yolk

No need to worry about cholesterol, dietary intake of cholesterol has little to any effect on your blood cholesterol levels. Egg yolks add a slight creamy texture. Buy pastured eggs from your farmers market if you can. If not, go for organic eggs or omega 3 eggs. Omega 3 and pastured eggs contain a lot more nutrition then conventional eggs.

5. Macadamia nuts

Macadamias are low in omega 6 fatty acids and are incredibly flavorful. They are full of monounsaturated fat. This nut blends well with any other ingredient. They can be a little spendy, so blanched almonds are a good second choice if you want to add a little nuttiness to your smoothie.

6. Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is another food that will add creaminess to a smoothie. It’s full of medium chain fatty acids that provide lots of energy.

7. Chia Seeds

Just 2 tablespoons of chia seeds will give you approximately 7 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, 205 milligrams of calcium, and 5 grams of omega-3!

8. Spinach

One of the world’s most nutrient dense foods, very mild tasting, and blends really well!

9. Stevia

If you are going to experiment with making smoothies then having stevia around is a must. It has a unique sweetness but contains no calories. A touch will go a long ways so be careful!

That’s it for now. Remember, I’m here for YOU so if you have a favorite smoothie recipe please share it below!

—Gina Batcheller, Health and Fitness Professional, Life Time Fitness