Smoothies are a delicious and healthy way to start your day or refuel after a workout. This 5 minutes blueberry banana smoothie is a low-calorie option that is packed with nutrients to fuel your body and keep you feeling satisfied. In this post, we will explore the benefits of this healthy smoothie and share a delicious recipe.
Blueberries and bananas are two fruits that are widely loved for their delicious taste, but did you know that they also offer numerous health benefits? In this post, we will explore the benefits of blueberries and bananas and how they can improve your overall health.
Benefits of Blueberries
Blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining good health. These antioxidants work by neutralizing harmful molecules called free radicals, which can damage cells and cause chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
In addition to their antioxidant properties, blueberries are also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. Fiber helps improve digestion, vitamin C boosts the immune system, vitamin K supports healthy bones, and manganese is essential for proper brain function.
Benefits of Bananas
Bananas are packed with nutrients, making them an excellent addition to any diet. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fiber. Potassium is an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
In addition, bananas are a great source of prebiotics, which are food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Prebiotics help promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for overall health.
Benefits of Blueberries and Bananas Together
When blueberries and bananas are combined, they create a delicious and nutritious combination that offers even more health benefits. This combination is particularly beneficial for improving cognitive function and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Blueberries are known to improve cognitive function, and bananas are a rich source of vitamin B6, which is essential for proper brain function. Together, these two fruits can help improve memory, concentration, and overall brain health.
In addition, the combination of blueberries and bananas can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. The antioxidants in blueberries and the potassium in bananas work together to protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to the development of chronic diseases.
Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Rich
Blueberries and bananas are two fruits that offer numerous health benefits when consumed together or separately. They are both rich in nutrients and antioxidants, which can help improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and support overall health and wellness.
By using unsweetened almond milk and nonfat Greek yogurt, this smoothie is lower in calories and fat than traditional smoothie recipes. Plus, the addition of spinach provides a boost of vitamins and minerals without adding any extra calories.
This blueberry banana smoothie is a delicious and healthy way to start your day or refuel after a workout, or go through the day in a busy routine. The antioxidants in blueberries will help protect your body from harmful free radicals, while the protein in Greek yogurt will keep you full and satisfied. Packed with antioxidants, fibre, and other nutrients, this smoothie is a great way to support your overall health and wellness. Enjoy it as a breakfast, snack, or post-workout refuel to keep your energy levels up and your taste buds happy.
Low-Calorie Blueberry & Banana Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Β½ cup frozen blueberries
- Β½ cup frozen bananas
- Β½ cup non-fat Greek yogurt
- Β½ cup fresh spinach
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more almond milk to thin it out.
- Taste and adjust sweetness as needed, adding more honey if desired.
- Serve and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen spinach or skip it altogether. I like adding spinach to my smoothies to add iron to my body! Sometimes, I would also add fresh kale as well.
- You can also use fresh blueberries and bananas, depending on what you have on hand. If using fresh fruits, add a few ice cubes to adjust the right consistency to your liking.
- To sweeten the smoothie, other than honey, you can also alternatively use dates, agave nectar, stevia or other 0 calorie sweetener.
- I like to make a few batches for myself, 2-3 portions at a time and store it in drinking mason jars in the fridge.Β
- I always add a scoop of collagen peptides, some hemp seeds and chia seeds to blend into any smoothie I make to add additional protein, nutrients and etc! You can do the same and the taste would not change.
- Becareful when choosing nonfat greek yogurt. Look at the nutritional label and look at the calories content and compare different brands!
- Top the smoothie with any beautiful toppings you like, or none at all! π