Green smoothies are a great way to blend your protein, veggies, and healthy fats all in one swell foop. Easy! Of course, not all smoothies are healthy. Many fast food smoothies are nothing short of liquefied candy in a cup. To make the best choices for your nutritional needs, check out the information below.

The following is a quick overview of how to put together powerfully healing green smoothies at home. Bookmark this page for quick reference!

Why Green Smoothies?

Green smoothies have gained popularity as the chronic illness community and the general public have become aware of the importance of nutrition. Optimizing a macronutrient balance is vital for rebuilding and maintaining health. Whether you deal with fibromyalgia and chronic illness, or simply want to improve your nutritional profile, smoothies can help. It’s important to include a healthy balance of healthy proteins, healthy fats, and an abundance of veggies into each and every meal.

Here are a few key reasons to give green smoothies a green light –

• Convenience
• Simple to toss together
• Great “Make and Take” meal
• All essential macronutrients can be combined
• Easily boost veggie intake
• Improved digestion with increased fiber
• Reduce whole body inflammation with whole nutrition
• Easily add powdered supplements as needed
• Abundance of ingredient options eliminates mealtime boredom
• Quality protein mixes include simple, digestible proteins

What Protein?

This is by far, the question I’m asked the most. When it comes to purchasing a smoothie mix to add to my smoothies, check out the ingredients. Look for one with a high quality protein source, great fiber, and has no added sugars. I personally choose pea, hemp, and chia proteins for my mixes. I add chia seeds to my green smoothies as well.

For a great article that simplifies the protein choices for your smoothie mixes, check out what Dr. Jonny Bowden has to say.

What Greens?

This is the easy part. Adding greens to your green smoothies is, of course, essential. It’s a powerful way to amp up your nutritional value of your smoothie. By adding healthy greens, you’re getting a one-two punch of fiber and healing micronutrients.

Here’s a great Smoothie Greens Guide for more information.

Remember to switch up your choices. Buy different greens options and/or blends at the store to keep things interesting. I happen to like the blends provided by Organic Girl such as the Super Greens.

What Healthy Fats?

Don’t forget to add healthy fats to your green smoothies. Coconut oil and avocado are my favorite add-ins and there are many more to choose from.

For a list of healthy fats – to use in your smoothies or for cooking – check out my Healthy Fats and Oils Downloadable Guide.

What Veggies (besides greens)?

It’s a good idea to include a variety of veggies as well as leafy greens. Experiment with the following and tell me what you think.

• Cucumbers
• Celery
• Zucchini
• Ginger
• Beets
• Jicama

More, More, More!

Would you like to know more about how to make healthy smoothies at home? Smoothies are a great way to begin amping up the nutrient value of your meals.

I’ve created a simple 5 Module e-course that includes everything you need to know about how to jumpstart your nutrition plan with healthy green smoothies.

Here’s a head’s up on just a few of the topics included in this Smoothie Jumpstart course –   

• Mix and match recipe guide
• Blending or Juicing?
• What about fruits?
• Powerfully healing add-ins including herbs and spices
• Equipment choices and recommendations

Check out this  Smoothie Jumpstart page to learn more on how green smoothies can add the nutritional boost you need to begin the healing process.  

Do you have favorite smoothie add-ins? What about ways to incorporate smoothies into your day? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!