When it comes to making a smoothie, there are so many different ingredients to choose from. There are countless different types of fruits, nuts and seeds and that’s before you even get started with liquid ingredients. That’s why today I’m going to help you narrow this choice by highlighting 10 of the top smoothie ingredients.
1) Almonds
Almonds are a concentrated source of calories, so you do need to use them sparingly in your smoothies. However, a 1 ounce serving adds lots of healthy fats, magnesium, manganese, vitamin B2 and vitamin E at a cost of just 161 calories. In addition to this, almonds give your smoothies a thick, crunchy texture.
2) Banana
A large banana contains just 121 calories along with high levels of fiber, manganese, potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. It’s also less juicy than other fruits and gives your smoothies a satisfying thick and fluffy texture.
3) Blueberries
Blueberries contain just 84 calories per cup and are packed full of health boosting anthocyanins, fiber, manganese, vitamin C and vitamin K. They’re one of the sweetest and juiciest fruits around and a great way to naturally sweeten your smoothies without loading up on calories.
4) Flaxseeds
Like almonds, flaxseeds are a calorie rich food, so you do need to limit the amount you put in your smoothies. However, a 1 ounce serving contains a reasonable 150 calories along with plenty of copper, fiber, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and vitamin B1. Flaxseeds also give your smoothies a satisfying crunchy texture.
5) Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt weighs in at 130 calories per cup and supplies you with lots of calcium, protein and saturated fat. It’s a perfect addition if you want to thicken up your smoothies.
6) Ice
Ice is an excellent smoothie ingredient for a number of reasons. Since it contains zero calories, it’s a great way to lighten your smoothies and minimize the effect they have on your waistline. In addition to this, ice makes your smoothies cool, refreshing and hydrating which is just what you want in the hot summer weather.
7) Milk
Milk packs 146 calories per cup along with plenty of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B2, vitamin B12 and vitamin D. It’s also a top source of protein and saturated fat and gives your smoothies a creamy nutritional punch.
8) Pineapple
Pineapple contains just 82 calories per cup and is a great source of copper, fiber, manganese, vitamin B1, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. The tangy taste also gives your smoothies a unique tropical twist.
9) Soda Water
Soda water is a brilliant choice if you want to add some fizz to your smoothie. It also contains zero calories, so is an excellent way to reduce the total calories in your smoothies.
10) Whey Protein Powder
Whey protein powder packs a relatively high 100 calories per 28g scoop. However, around 80% of these calories are high quality protein which makes it a great smoothie addition if you’re looking to pack on muscle. It’s also an excellent choice if you want to make chocolate or vanilla smoothies without loading up on sugar.
Summary
While there are plenty of other ingredients you can use in your smoothies, the 10 listed in this article are a great place to start. So if you’re ever stuck for ideas, come back and re-read this article, get some inspiration and then get blending up a super tasty smoothie.