Many experts believe that a healthy lifestyle starts with a good breakfast. In fact, research shows that there are significant benefits for those who “rise and dine,” such as:
- A diet that is more nutritionally complete and higher in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals
- Improved concentration and mental performance
- More physical strength and endurance
- Lower cholesterol levels
- Provides a metabolic boost that assists with weight management
Yet with all of this research and overwhelming evidence showing the importance of eating a healthy breakfast, only one-third of adults who would like to eat breakfast, actually do eat it. We all know the culprit behind skipping breakfast–lack of time.
There is a solution. One that is quick and simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and—most important—healthy!
8 Benefits of Starting Your Day with Green Smoothies
Green smoothies are similar to traditional fruit smoothies, but contain more green veggies and can include spinach, lettuce, kale, collard greens, parsley, dandelion greens, watercress—any leafy green veggies your palate desires. Bananas, apples, pears, avocado, and mango are great companions for these types of smoothies and work well to enhance the overall flavor and texture.
Leafy green vegetables are full of antioxidants and carotenoids, which boost your brainpower, and help protect your brain. They are also also full of B-vitamins, which are proven to help your memory, focus, and overall brain health and function. They are also rich in folic acid, which improves mental clarity.
3. Assists with digestion and overall metabolic function
Unlike fruit juices, green smoothies use the whole fruits and vegetables so that you get all of the fiber and nutrition. Fiber is essential for good colon health and it keeps your bowels in working order. These smoothies naturally combat constipation and help promote regularity.
Blending fruits and vegetables together breaks down the cells of plants which improves digestibility. The blending action unlocks the nutrients and maximizes their delivery to your body better than chewing a salad could. Smoothies are an efficient and more convenient way to take advantage of all of the health benefits, when compared to preparing and eating a salad – especially on the go.
4. Increases consumption of fruits and vegetables
The American Cancer Society recommends that we eat 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day to prevent cancer and other diseases. Green smoothies are a quick and convenient way to get your vegetables and dark, leafy greens without tasting them. The fruit masks the flavor, so even though all you taste is fruit, you are still consuming a healthy dose of spinach, kale, carrots, and any other vegetable you add.
5. Improves mood and helps fight depression
Green veggies contain lots of folic acid which is a natural antidepressant. The folate contained in greens helps fight memory loss and increases serotonin levels which results in improved moods.
6. Promotes natural weight loss
Green smoothies are packed with the nutrition and are very low in calories. They contain the vitamins, minerals, healthy carbohydrates, fiber and low fat whole food that you need to lose weight quickly, safely and effectively without starving yourself. They are also low in sugars found naturally in fruit and fruit juices making them a healthier option than traditional fruit smoothies and natural juices.
7. Clearer skin
Clearer, radiant skin is an often-reported benefit to eating healthier. Smoothies are high in fiber and allow your body to eliminate toxins the right way instead of through your skin. The vitamin E found in green leafy vegetables works with vitamin C to keep skin healthy as you age.
8. Hydration
Drinking green smoothies is not only a great way to trick yourself into eating your vegetables, it is also an excellent way to ensure you get the water your body needs. One of the main reasons many people do not drink the recommended six to eight glasses of water daily is they simply don’t like the taste of plain water. If that describes you, add more water to the mix as you prepare your smoothie. You’ll be drinking more liquids without even noticing it.
Get started
Green smoothies are a great breakfast alternative. You will receive all of the benefits of eating breakfast while simultaneously reaping the benefits of eating your veggies.
The most difficult part is getting started and staying consistent. It could be a tedious effort to gather all the ingredients and make your drink weekly. Luckily, if you’re looking for an easier way to get your green smoothie in, check out our partner!
