Smooth Operator

Smoothies are one of the easiest ways to your five a day but long gone are the days of the standard fruit mix. You can now get vegetable varieties, yoghurt mixes and even added protein products. There are hundreds of recipes out there to suit your needs and what better way to beat those seasonal blues and prevent those pesky colds by starting your day with a super smoothie? Take a look at our favourite recipes below and try adding some extra supplements to give you that extra boost over the winter months.

Banana, Oat and Almond Smoothie

Perfect to give you an energy boost in the morning and with enough substance to keep you going until lunch the banana, oat and almond smoothie is a great option for those who have a bit of a sweet tooth. Blend one banana with half a cup of porridge oats and, to give it that extra something special, mix with almond milk. This quick and simple smoothie can be made in a flash and you can adjust the amount of milk added to taste depending on how thick you like it.

Protein Shakes

The newest smoothie craze is a take on the protein shakes that are so popular amongst those trying to build their muscle mass. Basically, you can take any of your favourite smoothie recipes and add two tablespoons of protein powder to the mix. Protein powder can be picked up from any good health store and staff will be able to advise you on the best powder to suit your needs. Opt for a plain flavouring if you’re planning on mixing it up or choose a more exotic flavour such as pistachio if you want to add another flavoursome dimension. Protein rich smoothies are also great following a work out to help your body repair and recharge any damaged muscle tissue.

The alternative smoothie

It may not go down to well first thing in the morning but for a healthy afternoon snack try the fruit and vegetable mixed smoothie. Carrots are a great veg to mix in as they have all the health benefits without the overpowering taste. Spinach is also a great option to enhance the antioxidant levels as long as you’re not put off by the unattractive greeny, brown colour it turns your smoothie. If you do opt for veg in your smoothie be sure to use extra tasty fruits like oranges and mangos to make sure it’s still a taste sensation.