The Antioxidizer Smoothie

They may be little, but berries bring on big beautifying benefits to your skin.  Berries are full of antioxidant compounds that neutralize damaging free radicals which lead to skin cell damage and premature skin aging.

Antioxidants are nutrients (vitamins and minerals) and enzymes (proteins inside your body) that can help to prevent and repair damage to your body's tissue. Antioxidants do this by slowing or preventing the effects of free radicals in the body.  When it comes to caring for your skin, antioxidants can help to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun.  Unlike sunscreens and moisturizers, antioxidants can protect your skin from the inside out by guarding your cells from damage.

Vitamins A, C and E and the mineral selenium are thought to be particularly helpful in skin care. In addition to helping fortify cells against free radicals, vitamins A and C also encourage cell and tissue growth, helping the body to repair itself. This is very helpful to the skin, which is constantly shedding and regrowing cells. For this reason, any antioxidants that protect cells and encourage cell growth could be helpful in an anti-aging regimen, as they may help fight fine lines and wrinkles [source: WebMD].

This smoothie contains 2 whole cups of colorful, antioxidant rich berries, as well as peaches, another fruit known for it's substantial antioxidant content. Berries and peaches are also loaded with hydrating water and are chock full of vitamins C and A, all of which are crucial for a healthy complexion.  And, if that's not enough, these colorful superfoods help the body manufacture collagen, which makes skin soft, smooth and youthful.

So, remember, getting a gorgeous, glowing complexion doesn't only mean slathering on the sunscreen or the latest pricey serum.  It also means paying attention to your diet.  By tossing nutrient rich fruits and veggies into your blender, you can nourish your skin from the inside out.

The Antioxidizer

6 oz Fat Free Greek Yogurt, Vanilla

½ c Raspberries, frozen

½ c Strawberries, frozen

½ c Blackberries, frozen

½ c Peaches, frozen

1 c Spinach, frozen

2 T Flax Seed, Ground

1 c POM Wonderful Pomegranate Juice

½ c Water

Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.(18 g protein, 5 g fat, 12 g Fiber)

Good Morning Sunshine!

Since much of the country is dealing with the color white today, I thought I would try and brighten things up with a bright and sunny smoothie.  The color of the day today is sunshine.  Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables are chock full of antioxidants like carotenoids and bioflavonoids. Along with antioxidants, sunny-colored foods also have an abundance of vitamin C. These bountiful nutrients can help your heart, vision, digestion and immune system. Other benefits of naturally yellow and orange foods include maintenance of healthy skin, wound healing, and stronger bones and teeth.  And they are delicious!

Good Morning Sunshine

½ c. cucumber, peeled and chunks

1 c. carrots, shredded

1 banana, chunks (frozen)

1 c. peaches, slices (frozen)

¼ c. orange juice

¼ c. skim milk

2 T. Whey protein powder, vanilla flavor

1 T. honey

Blend ingredients in a blender until smooth.

(38 g Protein, 1 g Fat, 6 g Fiber)

Have A Cup o' Salad!

Today's smoothie is like a salad in a cup.  It was beautiful before and after, and the taste was wonderful...a bit like a V8, but creamy and thick.  The mango and peach added a nice sweet note to the flavor of the vegetables.  I must admit, I was proud of this one.  So, go drink some salad!

Cup o’ Salad Smoothie

1 c. shredded kale

1 c. shredded carrots

1 celery stalk, cut into chunks

1 tomato, cut into chunks

1 peach, peeled and cut into chunks

1 c. frozen mango chunks

1 c. apple juice

1 ½ T. whey protein powder, vanilla flavor

Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth.
(30 g Protein, 0 g Fat, 8 g Fiber)