Smoothies and Ileocecal Valve Supplements are a quick and convenient way to load up on our favorite whole foods. When it comes to ingredients we can be a bit picky and for good reason. Sadly, there are many companies who are essentially selling milkshakes marketed as smoothies. In other words, these “smoothies” are lacking in high quality, nutritious ingredients and are instead filled with sugar. So here are our favorite hacks to help take your smoothie to the next level.

Veggies First
We could all use more veggies in our diet and smoothies are the perfect vessel to sneak them in. Our favorites are leafy greens like kale and spinach. However, there is a place for carrots, cucumber, zucchini and more. Experiment, play around with different recipes and note your favorites. As for an extra boost of greens and a variety of nutrients add in some of our very own organic Wild Microalgae, blue-green algae known as Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA). Smoothies and our Ileocecal Valve Supplements go hand in hand for better overall mind and body health.

Healthy Fats
Our bodies not only crave fats but require them to make the hormones that control the metabolic process along with many other processes in the body. Healthy fats like avocado (which are high in omega 3 fatty acids), flaxseed and coconut oil will not only nurture your body but will add fantastic flavor to your smoothie and help keep you feeling satisfied until its time for your next meal.

Friendly Fiber
A whole food smoothie is best when filled with friendly fiber that aids in digestion and toxin elimination. All you need to do is throw in one or two of your favorite fruits and veggies and allow your handy blender to do the work. Look for one that is an extractor so it smashes the food. Nutribullet, Ninja, and Vita-mix are a good place to start.

Sugar Last
Sugar in smoothies can add up quickly, even natural sugars. A banana here, a date there and a handful of mangos will make for a sugar-loaded smoothie. Too much sugar can cause a spike in insulin which can lead to weight gain. Be conscious of the amount of fruit and which fruits you are adding to your daily smoothies.

Balanced Meal
A half of a banana (add a small amount of the peeling as it is loaded with nutrients), a tbs of coconut oil, hemp protein powder, a handful of spinach, and a tablespoon of flaxseed add up to a complete meal. Chances are by the time you have added all of your wonderful ingredients to your smoothie you will have a whole food balanced meal. And, a smoothie should be treated just like that, a nutritious balanced meal that sustains you until you are ready for your next meal.

Yours in health,

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well if one has not dined well.”
Virginia Woolf