Our favorite liquids to try with your smoothies
What you choose to mix your smoothie with can make all the difference. But do you know the benefits of what you're using in your daily smoothie? Today we're breaking down the top 3 blending liquids that we've heard our SmoothieBox members use and love.
Nut Milks
Nut milks, like almond and cashew milk, have become popular in recent years. These milks are made from ground nuts and water, and when you stick with the unsweetened variety, that's it. If you're looking for something a little sweeter, you can find sweetened and flavored varieties, too.
Compared to cow's milk, almond milk is lower in calories, and is an excellent source of Vitamin E and calcium. It's also a low-sugar option when you stick with the unsweetened versions. Check out this quick and easy recipe for DIY Almond Milk from our partner, Delightful Mom Food.
Cashew milk is another popular nut milk option and will give your smoothie a creamy, rich flavor. One cup of homemade cashew milk will give you 5g of protein, making it a great addition to your daily smoothie. You may have noticed we mentioned homemade, but don't stop reading yet. Cashew milk is easy to make, and when made at home you can be sure there are no preservatives, added oils, or sugars. Not to mention you'll gain more fiber (1 gram), magnesium (20% DV), and iron (10% DV) when sticking to homemade.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is found in the center of a young coconut, and is naturally occurring in the fruit. Coconut water is a great source of fiber. One cup of coconut water has 3 grams of fiber, along with 2 grams of protein.
Coconut water is also great after a workout to help restore hydration. This is due in part to the minerals found in coconut water. In one cup of coconut water, you'll consume 17% DV of potassium, 15% DV of magnesium, and 11% DV of sodium.
Using your smoothie as a post-workout meal? Use coconut water to blend your smoothie and see if you notice a difference in how you feel post-workout.
Fruit Juice
Fruit juices can be nutritionally beneficial when used in moderation. Keep in mind they're typically high in sugar due to natural occurring sugars in fruit. If you're watching your sugar intake, minimize the amount of fruit juice you use in your smoothie.
Some fruit juices that have a beneficial amount of nutrients and antioxidants. One cup of orange juice or grapefruit juice will give you over 95% of the daily value of Vitamin C. So you'll add a little sweetness to your smoothie and be getting a bit of an immune boost as well.
