Smoothies can be defined as blended beverages made using a combination of fresh or frozen fruits, shaved or crushed ice and different fruit juices. Smoothies were initially (in the 1960’s) used as healthy alternatives of milkshakes and in the last two decades people started to comprehend the tasty nature of this beverage.http://www.oodora.com/health-and-food/drinks/history-of-fruit-smoothies.html

The commonly used ingredients added in fruit smoothies are: blueberries, pomegranates and cranberries, each one of which is rich in antioxidants and vitamins.http://www.oodora.com/health-and-food/drinks/history-of-fruit-smoothies.html

Ingredients

1 part fruit (fresh or frozen berries or both)

1 part orange juice

2 parts yogurt

Honey (optional)

The primary ingredients of this smoothie are fruits. You can use a combination of fresh and frozen fruits. If you prefer using only fresh fruits, add a little ice to it so that you get the desired slushy consistency. The measurements mentioned above are quantities used traditionally; you can always alter the measurements according to your preference.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aw3uvCmVWyg

Directions

Put the fruits into the blender, add the orange juice and finally pour the yogurt. The fruits have their own sweetness, but if you want the smoothie to be sweeter add a little bit of honey. Now, put the top on and switch on the blender. Within seconds the healthy berry smoothie will be ready to be poured into the serving glass.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aw3uvCmVWyg

Berries: Berries are rich in phytochemicals that play the role of anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents. A berry variety called raspberry contains calcium, folic acid, selenium and vitamins E, C and A.http://www.allhealthsite.com/health-benefits-of-berries.html

Orange juice: It serves as a source of vitamin C, potassium and folate.http://www.fao.org/docrep/x2650t/x2650t03.htm

Yogurt: Yogurt is high in protein content and as a result acts as an energizer.http://health.learninginfo.org/benefits-yogurt.htm

Honey: Honey has anti-allergic properties.http://www.essortment.com/all/honeyhealthben_runp.htm