Nutrition Blog | OnPoint Nutrition

Expert Tips on How to Make Smoothies: OnPoint Nutrition

Written by Abby Aikens | Mar 6, 2023 7:27:03 PM
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Are you tired of feeling sluggish and unhealthy? Do you struggle to find ways to incorporate healthy foods into your busy schedule?

Look no further! Our team is here to teach you how to build the perfect nutritious smoothie that will leave you feeling energized and ready to tackle your day.

 

Learning to build a nutritious smoothie can be a game-changer for your health.

Smoothies are a quick and convenient way to pack in a variety of nutrients, including fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats, all in one delicious drink.

 

By incorporating smoothies into your daily routine, you can improve your digestion, boost your immune system, increase your energy levels, and even support weight management goals.

 

Our team of credentialed experts has served over 3,000 clients with personalized nutrition plans tailored to their individual needs and goals. We are passionate about empowering individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes through nutrition education and guidance.

 

Let us teach you how to build a nutritious smoothie that fits your unique dietary preferences and goals, so you can experience the benefits of a healthy, balanced diet.

 

We will go over different types of smoothies, smoothie prep methods, tips and tricks, and ways to incorporate them into your day.

 

Gear Up With a Great Blender

To make delicious smoothies, I consider it crucial to have a high-quality blender, like my Ninja.

Although you can still achieve great results with a different, more affordable blender, investing in a quality, high-powered version can make a significant difference.

A high-powered blender can effectively break down the fruits and vegetables, resulting in a creamy and smooth consistency that is perfect for smoothies.

Portable blenders are a great option for those who are always on the go.

They allow you to whip up a nutritious smoothie or shake no matter where you are, whether it's at the office, gym, or on a camping trip.

Portable blenders are lightweight, compact, and often come with rechargeable batteries, making them incredibly convenient.

Plus, they can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a full-sized blender, making them a great option for those who don't have a lot of counter space or who are looking to save money.

Whatever blender you choose, make sure it is right for you so you can incorporate it in your lifestyle and start slinging smoothies straight away.

 

How To Enjoy Smoothies in 5 Different Ways

Are you tired of the same old smoothie routine? It’s time to shake things up (literally) and try out some new ways to prep your favorite fruity drinks.

When it comes to building a nutritious smoothie, our team takes a holistic approach to nutrition.

We believe that a balanced and nutrient-dense diet is key to achieving optimal health and wellness.

That's why we work with our clients to develop a nutrition plan that includes a variety of whole, minimally processed foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients.

Before we dive into the different methods, let’s go over a checklist to make sure your smoothie game is on point.
After all, smoothie making is serious business.

 

1. Freeze It


One of the easiest ways to add a new dimension to your smoothie is by freezing some of the ingredients. Try freezing bananas, berries, or even kale for a different texture and taste. Plus, it will give your smoothie a nice chill on a hot day.

 

2. Layer It


Why not make your smoothie a work of art? Layer different colored smoothies in a clear glass for a beautiful and Instagram-worthy presentation. Pro tip: start with the heaviest, most dense ingredients on the bottom, and work your way up to the lightest.

 

3. Make It a Smoothie Bowl


Who says smoothies have to be sipped through a straw? Turn your smoothie into a filling meal by pouring it into a bowl and adding toppings like granola, nuts, and fresh fruit. It’s like eating dessert for breakfast, but healthier.

 

4. Add a Twist


Take a classic smoothie recipe and add a unique twist. Try blending in some ginger for a spicy kick, or turmeric for a beautiful golden color. You can also experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew, for added protein and creaminess.

 

5. Spice It Up


Speaking of adding a kick, why not add some spice? Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon for a warm and cozy flavor. Just be sure not to overdo it!

With these different methods to prep your smoothies, you’ll never get bored of your go-to drink again. Plus, you’ll impress all your friends with your smoothie skills.

 

5 Tips and Tricks For Prepping Great Smoothies

Are you tired of making lackluster smoothies that just don't hit the mark?

You can take your smoothie game to the next level and make delicious, creamy, and healthy smoothies every time.

 

Elevate your smoothie game and make your day with these handy tips:

 

 

1. Opt for frozen fruit- Using frozen fruit is an excellent way to ensure your smoothie stays cold and thick, unlike ice that melts down and waters down the flavor. There is no better way to escape the summer heat than to sip on your delicious (nutritious) frozen treat. If you're worried about adding veggies to your smoothie, try using frozen cauliflower as a nutritious alternative.


 

2. Add more liquid if needed- Depending on your blender, you may need to add more liquid to achieve the perfect consistency. High-powered blenders can handle frozen fruit with ease, but if you're using a regular or personal-sized blender, you may need to add more liquid to blend the ingredients properly.

 


3. Go low speed, then increase to high- Start blending on low speed to ensure all the ingredients are mixed thoroughly. Gradually increase the speed to high to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Once you're done, end the blending process on low speed.

 


4. Sweeten to your liking- If your smoothie doesn't taste sweet enough, don't fret. No one should suffer through a smoothie, so let's have it hit the right note. You can easily sweeten it up with a tablespoon of honey or pure maple or agave syrup, you can also use additional fruit (like berries or a banana), applesauce, or coconut sugar.


5. Choose your milk or juice option- Feel free to use any milk you like in your smoothies. Almond milk is a great option for a neutral taste, coconut milk can add a tropical twist, and regular milk provides a protein boost.

If you don't do dairy or are thinking less creamy, adding an unprocessed fruit or vegetable juice is a great option.

When it comes to adding juice to your smoothie, it's best to choose options that are lower in added sugars and higher in nutrients. For example, freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit juice can provide a boost of vitamin C, while adding a small amount of tart cherry juice can offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Other good options include pomegranate juice, which is high in antioxidants, and beet juice, which can help improve exercise performance.


With these tips, you can create the perfect smoothie tailored to your taste preferences and nutritional needs. So, grab your blender and get blending.

 

Supercharge Your Smoothie: Boosting Nutrition and Flavor!

Transform your regular smoothie into a nutrient powerhouse with these delicious add-ins! Don't be afraid to experiment and find your own unique combination.

Here are some suggestions to get you started:

  • Oats: Add 1/3 cup of oats to your smoothie for extra heartiness and thickness.
  • Matcha: Love green tea? Add a teaspoon of matcha for an earthy flavor and antioxidant boost.
  • Flaxseed meal: Get a boost of fiber and minerals with a tablespoon of flaxseed meal.
  • Chia seeds: Thicken and add texture your smoothie! Add a tablespoon of chia seeds for healthy fats and more fiber.
  • Hemp seeds: Use a tablespoon of hemp seeds for healthy fats, omegas, and minerals.
  • Unsweetened cacao powder: Mhmm Chocolate shake anyone? Give your smoothie a rich chocolate flavor and more minerals with cacao powder.
  • Spinach: Get more greens in your smoothie with a cup or two of raw or cooked spinach.
  • Protein: Add more protein by using 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder. Even better, give a youthful boost to your shake with this collagen powder.
  • Nut or seed butter: Add a tablespoon of your favorite nut or seed butter for creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Avocado: Use 1/4 or 1/2 of a ripe avocado for healthy fats and a creamy texture.
  • Frozen cauliflower: A great ice-alternative since you can't taste it. Add a cup of frozen cauliflower to your smoothie for extra veggies and thickness. 


4 Ways to Prep Ahead Today to Enjoy your Smoothie Tomorrow

Yea we know, smoothies sound great but you missed the alarm and it was between washing your hair and slapping together a smoothie masterpiece. 

Prepping ahead of time is a great way to avoid the chance of missing your time to get on your smoothie game.

Sunday meal prep just added smoothies to the roster!

Here are the top ways to prep these bad boys ahead so you don't have to sacrifice your morning routine to get the goods:

1. Ice Cube Method

  • Step 1: Choose your smoothie ingredients and blend them together in a blender until smooth.
  • Step 2: Pour the smoothie into ice cube trays, filling each section about ¾ full.
  • Step 3: Freeze the trays until the smoothie cubes are solid.
  • Step 4: Once the cubes are frozen, remove them from the trays and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • Step 5: When you're ready to make a smoothie, simply take out the desired number of smoothie cubes and blend them with your liquid of choice until smooth.

2. Mason Jar Method

  • Step 1: Choose your smoothie ingredients and measure them out.
  • Step 2: Add the ingredients to a mason jar, starting with the dry ingredients and ending with the frozen fruit.
  • Step 3: Seal the mason jar and store it in the freezer until ready to use.
  • Step 4: When you're ready to make a smoothie, remove the jar from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to thaw slightly.
  • Step 5: Add your liquid of choice to the jar and blend everything together until smooth.

3. Freezer Bag Method

  • Step 1: Choose your smoothie ingredients and measure them out.
  • Step 2: Add the ingredients to a freezer-safe bag (like these) in the order listed, starting with the dry ingredients and ending with the frozen fruit.
  • Step 3: Seal the bag and store it in the freezer until ready to use.
  • Step 4: When you're ready to make a smoothie, remove the bag from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to thaw slightly.
  • Step 5: Pour the contents of the bag into a blender, add your liquid of choice, and blend everything together until smooth.

4. Pre-Pack Smoothie Ingredients

  • Step 1: Choose your smoothie ingredients and measure them out.
  • Step 2: Divide the ingredients into individual portions and store them in airtight containers or bags in the refrigerator.
  • Step 3: When you're ready to make a smoothie, simply take out one of the pre-packaged portions and blend it with your liquid of choice until smooth.
Want to know how long you can keep your delicious smoothies fresh?

 

Here are some tips for storing your smoothies in the fridge or freezer:


In the fridge: Keep your smoothies or smoothie ingredients in the fridge for up to 1-2 days before enjoying them. If you're prepping your smoothies ahead of time, make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Pro tip: try using a mason jar or a vacuum-sealed container to keep your smoothies extra fresh.

In the freezer: Looking to prep your smoothies for the long haul? You can store your smoothies or smoothie ingredients in the freezer for up to 3 months. That's right - you can make a big batch of smoothies and enjoy them week after week! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or freezer bags to avoid freezer burn. And when you're ready to enjoy your frozen smoothie, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or in a bowl of warm water for a quick defrost.

Don't let your smoothies go to waste! With proper storage, you can enjoy your favorite smoothie flavors anytime, anywhere. So go ahead, prep those smoothies and get ready to fuel your body with all the goodness they have to offer.

 

How Can a Nutrition Coach Help Me

Smoothies can be a delicious and convenient way to incorporate nutrient-dense foods into your diet.

However, with so many ingredients and variations available, it can be overwhelming to know which ingredients to choose and how to incorporate smoothies into your lifestyle.

This is where a nutrition coach such as a registered dietitian or nutritionist can help.

Here are just a few ways that a Nutrition Coach can make the difference:

Determine your dietary needs and lifestyle goals. They can then make personalized recommendations for the ingredients that will best meet your nutritional needs while also being tasty and convenient for your lifestyle.

For example, if you are looking to increase your protein intake, a nutrition coach can suggest protein-rich ingredients such as Greek yogurt, nut butter, or protein powder. If you are looking to reduce your sugar intake, a nutrition coach can suggest low-glycemic fruits such as berries and vegetables such as spinach, and suggest natural sweeteners such as stevia or monk fruit.

Portion control and balance. While smoothies can be a great way to pack in nutrients, they can also be high in calories if not portioned properly. A nutrition coach can provide guidance on appropriate portion sizes and how to balance your smoothie with other meals and snacks throughout the day.

Guidance on how to modify your smoothie ingredients based on your health conditions. For example, if you have a food allergy or intolerance, a nutrition coach can suggest alternative ingredients that are safe for you to consume. If you have a health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, a nutrition coach can provide guidance on ingredient choices that will best support your health.

Provide education on the importance of whole foods and the benefits of including a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods in your smoothies. They can also provide guidance on how to properly store and prep your smoothies to ensure their freshness and nutritional value.

Share Amazing Recipes for new and exiting smoothies. At OnPoint not only do we have an ever-growing treasure trove of delicious recipes, but we have quite a few smoothies in this list.

Here's a few:

Protein Berry Smoothie

 

Pumpkin Smoothie

 

Berry and Oat Smoothie Bowl

 

Taking The Next Steps on Your Health Journey

A nutrition coach such as a registered dietitian or nutritionist can provide personalized guidance on how to incorporate smoothies into your diet and choose the right ingredients for your dietary needs and lifestyle goals.

Our team of experts can provide education on the importance of whole foods and portion control, as well as guidance on modifying ingredients based on health conditions.

With their support, you can enjoy the benefits of smoothies while also meeting your nutritional needs and staying on track with your goals. 

So, if you're ready to take your smoothie game to the next level and achieve your nutrition goals, a Registered Dietitian or Nutritionist can help you create the perfect blend for your unique needs, taste preferences, and lifestyle.

 

Don't wait any longer, book a session with a Nutrition Coach today and let the power of smoothies work wonders for your health and well-being!