Are Store Bought Smoothies Healthy?

Smoothies have become increasingly popular as a way to get a nutritious snack or meal in a convenient form. However, it’s important to take a careful look at the ingredients in store-bought smoothies to make sure you’re getting a healthy pick.

The Benefits of Smoothies

Smoothies can be a great way to get a nutritious snack into your day. Not only can they be a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables, but they can also be a great way to get some extra servings of healthy fats, calcium, and other vitamins and minerals. Another plus is that smoothies are often a great way to get a meal or snack in without having to prepare and cook foods.

What to Look for When Buying Store Bought Smoothies

When buying smoothies at the store, it’s important to read the labels carefully. The first thing to look at is the total calorie content. If the smoothie is intended to be a meal replacement, it should have at least 300–400 calories. It’s also important to look at the total fat content. A healthy smoothie should have less than 10g of fat per serving.

Next, look at the sugar content. If the smoothie has more than 15g of sugar per serving, it’s a good idea to pass. It’s also important to look at the ingredients list for added sugars or sweeteners. Many store-bought smoothies contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and other additives.

The last thing to look at is the fiber content. A good smoothie should have at least 3g of fiber per serving. Fiber is important for digestion and for feeling satisfied after eating.

How to Make Store-Bought Smoothies Healthier

If you’re buying store-bought smoothies, there are some easy ways to make them healthier. First, look for smoothies that are made with real fruits and vegetables, instead of artificial flavors and colors. It’s also a good idea to add some healthy fats, such as nuts, nut butter, or avocado, which will help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Another way to make store-bought smoothies healthier is to add some protein. Protein is important for maintaining muscle mass, and it will also help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Some good sources of protein to add to your smoothies are Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or protein powder.

Finally, you can add some healthy toppings, such as chia seeds, hemp seeds, or nuts. These toppings will add some extra nutrition and flavor to your smoothie.

Conclusion

Store-bought smoothies can be a great way to get a nutritious meal or snack in a convenient form. However, it’s important to take a careful look at the ingredients list to make sure you’re getting a healthy pick. By looking for smoothies that are made with real fruits and vegetables, adding some healthy fats and proteins, and topping off your smoothie with some healthy nuts or seeds, you can make sure your store-bought smoothie is as nutritious as possible.