Avocado Avalanche

Like snow moving rapidly down a mountain, weight loss will also pick up speed. The short term effects of a low carbohydrate diet can realize this vision. Enter the avocado as a catalyst for weight loss goals. The avocado as the fundamental element in a healthy smoothie recipe provides fiber and monounsaturated fat.

Fiber Facilitates Weight Loss - The complex carbohydrates known as fiber help with weight loss goals in the areas of digestion and blood sugar levels.  The body cannot digest fiber. Digestion slows down taking the reins against a rampant and high glycemic index. Blood sugar remains unaffected.  No spikes. No overproduction of insulin.

The United States Department of Agriculture states that foods containing at least 20 percent of the recommended daily allowance are excellent sources of fiber.  This is easily accomplished by the avocado. It is also important to drink plenty of water to see the benefits of fiber.

Limit Carbohydrates - Insulin is a hormone that transports glucose from the blood to the cells whereupon it is converted to energy. Excess glucose is converted to glycogen by the liver. The muscles and liver store the glycogen for energy. What remains is converted to fat. A diet high in carbohydrates pairs with a higher insulin secretion. The summation is fat. Cut these carbohydrates. Eat vegetables, protein and healthy fats. The idea - the body burns fat for energy.

Nutrient Absorption - Nutrients in our food and beverages just exist unless absorbed. The monounsaturated fat of avocados sees the absorption of bio-active chemicals into the bloodstream. Further, blood lipids are improved by lowering triglycerides. An example of nutrient absorption by the avocado is found in carotenoids.

Avocados have many effective nutrients -

• Vitamins A, C and E - Antioxidants that protect cells from overproduction of free radicals and provides the immune system with a fiercer defense.
• Oleic Acid - A fatty acid which helps to reduce inflammation.
• Potassium - An electrolyte effective in regulating blood pressure.

(The avocado is edible save the skin and pit. Cut away parts which appear discolored and may be mold.)

Improve Energy and Cellular Health. 

Fight Free Radicals and Inflammation.

• 1 Avocado, Peeled and Pitted 
• 1 Cup of Red Raspberries
• 1/4 cup Crushed Ice

Recommended Daily Allowance For Nutrition - 2,000 Calorie Diet

• Calories - 360
• Fiber - 21 grams
• Net Carbs - 11 grams
• Vitamin A – 7 %
• Vitamin C – 87 %
• Vitamin E – 26 %
• Vitamin K – 65 %
• Vitamin B6 – 32 %
• Folate – 47 %
• Iron – 11 %
• Magnesium - 22 %
• Manganese – 55 %
• Potassium – 33 %

For maximum weight loss, decrease carbohydrates, increase vegetables, protein and water.

The avalanche of weight loss strikes fast.

More information is found at the site of Healthy Smoothie Recipes.

Lose Weight with Grapefruit Smoothies Polyphenol Power

Want to create a healthy smoothie with the power of polyphenols? Incorporate Grapefruit.

The compounds of grapefruit can give metabolism a surge by activating enzymes involved in cellular energy. Studies show that combining polyphenols from a variety of fruit and vegetables sources may reduce fat mass.

Polyphenols are phytochemicals found in fruits such as grapefruit, blackberries and strawberries. As a product of the plant cell, phytochemicals are secondary metabolites. Their function is of great importance to the health of the plant, offering protection from infections, ultraviolet radiation and predatory insects.

The class of phytochemicals known as polyphenols have several phenol groups - aromatic organic compounds with attached hydroxyl groups. Such traits as color of fruit and sweetness of taste are determined by polyphenols. Currently, thousands of polyphenols have been identified, leaving many more to be discovered. Phenolic acids, flavonoids and stilbenes are chief categories of polyphenols.

Regarding human health, the properties of polyphenols have been shown to be of natural assistance. With their functioning as antioxidants, polyphenols can lower inflammation and neutralize free radicals. Here, antioxidants can counteract the damaging effects of oxidative stress. Oxidation is a normal process caused by metabolism, inflammation and external occurrences like pollution. However, too many oxidized molecules can cause a free radical frenzy of electron stealing. Antioxidants can help steady the unstable molecules, thereby protecting cellular function.

Notably, the pink grapefruit is a polyphenol playground. This red and pink hues of this variety of grapefruit contains lycopene - a carotenoid with high antioxidant capabilities. Limonoids help to create enzymes of detoxification, while the pectin content can reduce levels of harmful cholesterol. The flavonoid, Naringenin, is a subject of continual studies in its connection to fat tissue function. The result being that naringenin found in pink grapefruit may disrupt adipose tissue expansion.

Try this simple smoothie in the morning. Polyphenols abound.

- 1/2 Cup Black Raspberries
- 4 Strawberries
- 1/2 Grapefruit Wedge - With Pith
- 1/4 Cup Kale

This smoothie is a low calorie treat with only 115 calories. Fiber contents are high with 8 grams. The nutritional value of Vitamins A, C and K are plentiful, plus the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power of combined polyphenols. The mineral manganese is well represented as well.

By incorporating grapefruit into a smoothie, weight loss goals can be achieved through the workings of  polyphenols that enhance metabolism and hinder fat mass growth.

Still Need Help Losing Weight?  Check Out The Ebook -
Healthy Smoothies For A Beautiful You

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Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Weight Loss

Low Glycemic Index Smoothies

Healthy smoothie recipes that have a low glycemic index help maintain blood sugar levels. And in turn provide for more effective weight loss.  With these good blood sugar concentrations, healthy smoothies are a delicious method for nutrient absorption and prevention of health upsets.

The glycemic index shows the rate at which food breaks down into sugar in the bloodstream. Glucose delivers energy to the body's cells by way of the bloodstream.  Foods with a high glycemic index are quickly raise the level of blood glucose. The detrimental consequence being long-term health problems and weight management difficulties including excess belly fat.

Even with an acceptable weight number on a scale, too much belly fat or visceral fat can be dangerous. Disturbances to a balanced system can result from extra weight around your core. High blood pressure and diabetes are two such examples. In relation to hypertension, abdominal fat may affect hormones that regulate the constriction of blood vessels.

Diabetes can occur due to an increase of triglycerides from the liver's fatty acids and a decline in control of blood sugar by insulin.  However, homeostasis can be achieved with healthy smoothies, keeping hormones in check. The pancreas and liver will appreciate not being overburdened.

A general reference follows:

Glycemic Index – Range from 0 to 100
70 -100 – High glycemic index
55 – 69 – Medium
0 – 50 – Low and Optimal Range

Try this simple recipe to support a low-glycemic index.

8 Strawberries
1/2 Cup Raspberries
1 Celery Stalk
1/4 Cup Filtered Water

This smoothie settles, containing significant amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, manganese, copper and fiber.  Celery and raspberries are low in carbohydrates, while strawberries have a glycemic index of 40.

Begin the day with healthy smoothie recipes. A diet generating great blood glucose levels will promote overall health especially in the brain. To get a low glycemic index value, make smoothies with fruits like raspberries, strawberries, pears, peaches, plums and apples. Add celery, spinach and broccoli for a vegetable supplement.

Enjoy!

Check out the ebook - Healthy Smoothies For A Beautiful You

Blueberry Smoothie Recipe For Wellness

By combining nutrients from nature and beautiful hues of blue, a blueberry smoothie recipe will boost overall wellness.  The blueberry plant belongs to the genus of Vaccinium. The fruit from these shrubs contain nutrients in the form of vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals.

The phytonutrients of plants are organic compounds that protect the plant from disease, harmful bugs and the damaging ultraviolet rays of the sun.  Phytonutrients are said to bring to tremendous health benefits to humans as well. Anthocyanins are the blue, red and purple pigments that give color to fruits like blueberries, cranberries and blackberries, where the individual tone is determined by the pH. Further, these chemical compounds responsible for the myriad colors of fruit and vegetables have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.

In particular, blueberries have an incredible antioxidant capacity per serving. Antioxidants combat excess free radicals which occur as byproducts of the body's metabolic processes. An overabundance of free radicals also can result from external elements of the environment such as the sun  and air pollution. These unstable molecules steal electrons from healthy molecules.  Potentially there is damage to the cellular structure and DNA causing the death of cells and diseases in the body.

Regarding the micronutrients of vitamins and minerals, a blueberry smoothie recipe contains notable amounts of Vitamin C, K and the mineral manganese. One cup of blueberries supplies approximately 25 percent of the daily requirements for Vitamin C and manganese.  Two servings of blueberries satisfy 35 percent of the recommended daily allowance for Vitamin K.

By including blueberries as part of a smoothie, many systems of the body are helped. Here are few examples:

- Due to the inherent antioxidant power, a blueberry smoothie recipe serves the cardiovascular system by naturally lowering cholesterol and protecting blood vessel structures.

- Studies have shown blueberries consumption can improve brain function.  Nerve cells are protected from oxidative stress and the function of neuron signals are increased.

- The antioxidant potential of Vitamin C and anthocyanins supercharges the immune system to fight infection and promote healing.

- Manganese activates enzymes used in metabolizing carbohydrates and fats and also in absorbing vitamins. This mineral is necessary for bone health and has been known to help with inflammation. As a component for the enzyme superoxide dismutase, eating foods with manganese contributes to its antioxidant power.

- Vitamin K helps with blood clotting, bone function and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. It plays a role in the formation of the myelin sheath which covers the axon of a nerve cell. Vitamin K is needed for the synthesis of sphingolipids that protect the surface of a cell and are important to signalling.

- The macronutrient of fiber in blueberries works to prevent constipation and cleanses the digestive system. One cup of blueberries contains 14 percent of the body's daily needs.  

- Ongoing research finds the nutrients in blueberries to thwart cancer due to the ellagic acid content which also prevails in red raspberries. Ellagic acid is said to stop tumors from growing.  It works toward the death of cancer cells which tend not to follow the regular cellular death process of healthy cells.

•    1 Cup Blueberries
• 1/2 Cup Black Raspberries
• 1/4 Cup Cranberries
• 1/4 Cup Filtered Water

Find more recipes like this blueberry smoothie recipe. Check out the ebook Healthy Smoothies For A Beautiful You to heal and balance your internal systems. Choose from 50 smoothie recipes and over 60 pages of health information.

Blueberry smoothie recipe

Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Kids

Healthy smoothie recipes for kids are an efficient way to meet a child's nutritional requirements. Not only do these healthy smoothies taste delicious, but studies have shown they can help increase a child's school performance and energy levels along with preventing disease.

Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a poor diet can result in an energy imbalance where calories are greater than those expended in physical activity. There becomes a potential for obesity. Also, a diet high in sodium and sugar may lead to the development of certain cancers, heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis later in life.

Smoothie Recipes For Kids - Teenage Years 

While younger children need just 1 serving of fruit a day, teenagers must consume approximately 3 servings of fruit and 4 servings of vegetables to meet the daily recommended amounts. Some examples of  one serving of fruit are 1/2 cup berries, 1 small to medium apple or 2 kiwis. A serving of fruit is equal to one half of a  cup. One serving of raw vegetables include 2 cups of leafy greens like spinach, 1 cup of carrots or 2 small tomatoes.

During a stage of rapid growth and development, children need more calories and nutrition. Many times these growth spurts can occur over a span of 18 - 24 months in the teenage years. Very active teens and boys between the ages of 14 to 18 will need extra calories from healthy foods. An extra piece of fruit or vegetable serving would suffice.

Create smoothie recipes for kids with fresh fruit and vegetables and filtered water. The following is a nutritious smoothie which can be made quickly:

• 1 Ripe Banana 
• 4-5 Strawberries 
• 1/2 Cup Red Raspberries 
• 1 Cup Raw Baby Spinach 
• 1/4 Cup Filtered Water 

Fruits and vegetables are natural sources of  vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. Key nutrients contained in this smoothie are vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that fights against free radicals and thus help prevent cellular damage.  Also, this vitamin strengthens the immune system and white blood cell counts. As a cofactor, the benefits of Vitamin C are seen in wound healing and having beautiful skin.

Potassium is a mineral needed for the electrolyte balance of cells in the body.  This mineral works with sodium in order to regulate water in the body's cells.  It also helps with the function of muscles and organs.

Dietary fiber benefits optimal blood pressure, cholesterol levels and elimination of toxins. It also provides a feeling of fullness to stop overeating.

Begin the day with a healthy smoothie before school. Here are some of the benefits:

• Improved memory 
• More efficient absorption of nutrients in the digestive process 
• Meeting the daily requirements for fruit
• Hydration with filtered water and natural sources 
• Infection fighting properties 
• Increased energy levels and good mood 

Healthy smoothie recipes for kids are an effective way to get essential vitamins, minerals and fiber. The results of healthy eating promote the confidence of being happy and having a positive body image.

Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Kids - Related Articles

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Healthy Fruit Smoothies For A Beautiful You

Consult your doctor for specific food allergies.

Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Kids

How To Make A Strawberry Smoothie

Learning How To Make A Strawberry Smoothie

Make a strawberry smoothie to reap a wide variety of beneficial nutrients such as Vitamin C and manganese. Belonging to the Rosaceae family, the strawberry has remarkable healing qualities. Just one cup of strawberries in your smoothie recipe will provide the recommended daily allowance for Vitamin C.

Vitamin C, known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals, preventing cellular damage. Aside from healing the body's cells and external wounds, Vitamin C neutralizes toxins, repairs damaged tissue and improves skin collagen.  Vitamin C is a component needed for a great number of chemical reactions in the body as well.

A fair amount of the mineral manganese is found in strawberries and has powerful antioxidant capabilities.  Manganese is necessary to activate certain digestive enzymes while helping the body absorb nutrients such as Thiamin and Vitamin E. Further, manganese supports the body's process of converting protein and fat to energy. Other benefits of manganese include supporting nerve and brain function, bone health and regulating blood sugar.

Tips On How To Make A Strawberry Smoothie

• Always wash fruit and vegetables before usage.
• Use fresh fruit and vegetables. (Frozen fruit can be used as long as it does not contain chemicals or preservatives.)
• Filtered water is a key ingredient to eliminate toxins.
• For effective nutrient absorption and detoxification benefits, drink the strawberry smoothie on an empty stomach. 
• Combine strawberries with acid fruits and sub-acid fruits for optimal digestion.
• Add leafy greens for a nutritional punch.

Here is a recipe with antioxidant power:

• 1 Cup Strawberries (8 or 9 strawberries)
• 1/2 Cup Black Raspberries
• 1/4 Cup Baby Spinach Leaves
• 1/2 Cup Filtered Water

This strawberry smoothie recipe is loaded with Vitamin C, manganese, antioxidants, phytonutrients and enzymes.   This recipe has roughly 100 calories while the fiber content is approximately 9 grams. Fiber in the diet is important for digestion and promotes heart and colon health.  By following the tips on how to make a strawberry smoothie, overall wellness and weight loss can be achieved.

Related Articles

• Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Weight Loss
• Healthy Fruit Smoothies For A Beautiful You

Transform Your Health Naturally With Only Fruit, Vegetables and Filtered Water.  See the benefits of Healthy Smoothies For A Beautiful You

How To Make A Strawberry Smoothie

Banana Smoothie Recipes Help The Digestive Process

Banana smoothie recipes energize the body naturally. Said to have originated in Malaysia, the banana is a member of the Musaceae family of flowering plants. As a key ingredient in smoothie recipes, bananas have significant levels of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, manganese, potassium, fiber and phytochemicals. These nutrients work towards disease prevention and increasing energy levels.

Along with fiber, the sugars of bananas help sustain energy levels. The sugars of fructose, glucose and sucrose exist in their simplest form. These carbohydrates are easily digested. The body can burn these calories quicker than calories derived from protein and fat.

Banana Smoothie Recipes - Nutritional Qualities

Bananas contain prebiotic fiber which supports probiotics or the good bacteria in the digestive system. The prebiotic fiber guards against damaging pathogens. It ensures healthy digestion, effective nutrient absorption and elimination. One such benefit is the body's ability to absorb calcium. Regarding soluble fiber, the pectin of bananas helps in the elimination process. Overall, fiber keeps blood sugar levels intact and enables a feeling of fullness to prevent overeating. A steady release of natural energy is seen.

Other digestive benefits come from the banana's ability to prevent ulcers. Compounds known as protease inhibitors get rid of the bacteria which can cause stomach ulcers. Bananas also act as natural antacids. By coating the stomach lining with excess mucus, stomach acids can be neutralized.

To further assist the digestive process, create banana smoothie recipes with sub-acid fruits such as blueberries or raspberries and vegetables such as celery or lettuce.  Some combinations of fruit and vegetables may hinder digestion because of the amount of time foods need to digest. For example, fruits in the melon category digest very quickly while sweet fruits take a little more time due to their water content. Sometimes fruit will ferment while waiting for slower digesting foods.  Bananas are classified as a sweet fruit which combines well with sub-acid fruits and leafy green vegetables.  

Here is a sample recipe - creamy, smooth and sweet.

2 Bananas 
1/4 Cup Red Raspberries 
1/2 Cup Lettuce 
1/2 Cup Filtered or Ionized Water

Find more healthy smoothie recipes to sustain weight loss, detoxify the body and promote an alkaline environment. It's never been so easy.

Visit Healthy Smoothie Recipes.


Banana Smoothie Recipes