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Smoothies get a bad rap for their purported lack of fiber and high sugar content. But done right, fresh, homemade smoothies made using organic foods can change your breakfast routine for the better.

It’s tough to beat the health benefits of a good, nutrient-packed smoothie. Make a mean, green smoothie and it’ll keep you super-charged all day. Also, blending veggies into tasty smoothies are great for picky kids!

If you’re not a big fan of smoothies, these health benefits may yet change your mind.

Smoothies boost your metabolism.

Not a big fan of fiery spices? That’s easy – just toss them into your smoothie! Recent studies found that spices like ginger and cayenne pepper help jumpstart your metabolism. The result? You burn more fat, sugar and carbs throughout the day!

For a calorie-burning smoothie, just blend these ingredients together:

• 1 2-inch piece of ginger
• 1/2 ripe avocado
• 1 cup fresh or frozen mango chunks
• 1/2 cup fresh coconut juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Smoothies help ease joint pain.

If you suffer from frequent arthritis-related joint pain and inflammation, smoothies might just be the thing you need. Many fruits can help stamp out inflammation and relieve pain because of their antioxidants. If you blend them together, you’ll essentially be drinking a tall glass of those pain-relieving antioxidants.

For a pain-relieving smoothie, blend these ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup bing cherries
• 1/2 cup tart cherry juice
• 2 tablespoons almond butter

Smoothies protect your brain from degeneration.

The many antioxidants in fruits like blueberries are also hailed for their protective effects on the brain. In fact, eating blueberries has been linked to better memory and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease –the most common form of dementia.

Make a brain-boosting smoothie with the following ingredients:

• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup spinach
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

Smoothies pack a probiotic punch for your gut.

Beneficial bacteria called probiotics in fermented foods can do wonders for gut health. For one, probiotics help stimulate the growth of good gut bacteria, which guard our intestines against harmful bacteria and viruses.

For a gut-friendly smoothie, blend these ingredients:

• 1 cup raspberries, peaches and strawberries
• 1/2 cup plain full-fat kefir
• 1/2 tablespoon flaxseeds

Smoothies fill you up.

Fiber and protein are the secret ingredients to feeling satisfied. Luckily, smoothies have both! Together, these macronutrients help crush unhealthy cravings. Plus, smoothies are a healthier “snack” for quelling hunger pangs throughout the day.

For a deliciously filling smoothie, just blitz these ingredients in the blender:

• 4 ice cubes
• 1/2 apple, chopped
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup fresh coconut juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Smoothies help reduce your blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a huge risk factor for heart disease, stroke and other potentially life-threatening health conditions. Use food to your advantage and make some heart-healthy smoothies! Foods rich in potassium, such as bananas, blueberries and almonds, are great for keeping blood pressure stable.

Blend these ingredients for a heart-healthy smoothie:

• 1 kiwi, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 medium frozen banana
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
• 1 teaspoon ground flaxseeds

Smoothies help keep blood sugar stable.

On top of reducing high blood pressure, smoothies can also keep blood sugar levels from spiking. Plus, a nutrient-packed smoothie is a far healthier alternative to standard sugary breakfast fare (refined cereals, flavored yogurt and processed granola bars).

For a tasty smoothie that isn’t going to raise your risk of diabetes, just blend these ingredients:

• 1 apple, cored and chopped
• 1 cup kale
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• Cinnamon, to taste
• Nutmeg, to taste

Smoothies can make you look younger.

The vitamins and minerals in plant-based foods can help you combat nasty skin issues like acne, dark spots and uneven skin tone. The many antioxidants in fruits and vegetables also protect your skin from the damaging effects of too much sun exposure.

For a smoothie that promotes younger-looking skin, blend these ingredients:

• 1 fresh apricot, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 dried apricot, diced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1 teaspoon organic honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Smoothies provide a burst of energy.

Start your morning right and drink a refreshing smoothie! Unlike plain coffee, a smoothie made with fiber-rich fruits like bananas will keep you energized and full until lunchtime.

For a filling and energizing smoothie, blend the following:

• 4 ice cubes
• 1 medium frozen banana
• 1/2 cup coffee
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons organic peanut butter

Smoothies ease you into bed.

Smoothies can also put you to bed, thanks to the melatonin in many fruits and vegetables. Melatonin is a hormone that your body naturally produces to regulate your sleep cycle. Therefore, drinking a melatonin-packed smoothie before bed can help keep you from tossing and turning.

For a good night’s sleep, blend the following ingredients and drink up:

• 4 ice cubes
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 3/4 cup tart cherry juice

Smoothies can be a great addition to a balanced diet. Rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants, smoothies confer health benefits for both your mind and your body. So grab your favorite foods and start blending!

Sources:

Insider.com

EatThis.com