Smoothies

Smoothies are thick, blended beverages, usually made from a variety of fruits, though sometimes yogurt or ice is added.

As an easily consumed beverage, smoothies are an effective way to get several servings of fruits in a single drink. Smoothie companies became more prominent in the 1990s and advertise a health-conscious lifestyle. MayoClinic.com advises people to use fat-free yogurt and fresh fruit to create healthier smoothies.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/childrens-health/HQ00419/NSECTIONGROUP=2

Though most smoothies are composed primarily of fruit, they can have a very high sugar content. Smoothies from major chains are often especially high in sugar, and can replace fruit with fruit juice. Jamba Juice's Citrus Squeeze is made of orange juice, pineapple juice and strawberries, and contains 440 calories, four grams of fiber, and 97 grams of sugar. Its greatest health benefit is the extremely high dose of vitamin C.

Smoothies are usually consist of yogurt, ice, and fruit. Typical fruits for smoothies are bananas, strawberries, blueberries, melon, and mango. To sweeten the smoothies, people usually use sugar, honey, or syrup. Some recipes for smoothies include ingredients to add more protein or nutrients such as whey, wheatgrass, tofu, or dried powdered milk.http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/new-face-of-smoothies Ice cream is not recommended as part of the ingredients in a smoothie if the drinker is in diet or want to cut some calories.

Some doctors and nutritionist use smoothies as part of therapies. For example, some doctors suggest drinking smoothies with nuts and legumes to treat or prevent constipation.http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/new-face-of-smoothies?page=2