Guys, tomorrow is a big day in the world of superfoods! Superfood Snacks officially hits the shelves of bookstores nationwide, and I am absolutely chomping at the bit (or on a goji energy bar, but hey) to get this book out into the world! In the meantime, I wanted to address a subject that has been brought up more times than I can count: What’s the best time to drink a smoothie?

Well, a great question deserves a great answer, and the simple one is… ANYTIME! Truly, there is not a single bad time of the day to drink a smoothie as a healthy way to curb cravings, and enjoy a delicious treat that truly nourishes. Yet, as you likely know, a smoothie can include a pretty wide variety of ingredients… with recipes ranging from light and balanced fruity blends, to swampy-brown, every-supplement-known-to-man-style concoctions (we’ve all been there). So, the real question is not what the best time to drink is, but rather what the best ingredients are for the time of day. Here’s how to make the most out of your blend, anytime:

Before/After Exercise | One of the most common times to enjoy a smoothie is either before or after working out (many people have a natural preference of one time or the other – there is no “better” time). Nevertheless if you’re looking to amp up your workout game with a superfood blend, I’ve got you covered in terms of what to drink in these posts about pre- and post-workout smoothies.

In the morning | Those early smoothies are a great time for higher carbohydrate smoothies, because they function as quick energy for the body, which you’ll have all day to burn off. That said, adding a bit of of protein and healthy fat helps to make that energy last more evenly and long-term. So, this time of day is great to create smoothies that are largely fruit, with a scoop of protein powder, some nuts or seeds, or even some antioxidant-rich acai to round out the nutrition. Add in a serving of goji berries, known for their brain-boosting activity, to help you start the day on the smart track. One to try: Blueberry Hemp Smoothie

For lunch | Some of us use smoothies as a healthy meal replacement – one that’s lower in calories and yet much higher in nutrition than many traditional meals. A smoothie meal is a fantastic way to energize! Lunchtime smoothies are a great time to do green smoothies – smoothies that are particularly balanced in terms of macro and micronutrients. Several handfuls of baby spinach, romaine, or even a little bit of a “stronger” green like kale can easily be packed into the blender. Using other ingredients with complex carbohydrates (high fiber foods), healthy fats, and some protein will ensure long term satiation. Great ingredient examples include hemp seeds (healthy fats, minerals, and protein) and low-glycemic carbohydrates like the ones sweet mulberries provide. One to try: Green Extreme Smoothie

As a snack | Whether it’s mid-morning or mid-afternoon, satisfying a hunger urge with a smoothie is always a smart move. Smoothies that are smaller in size and/or lower in calories here (between 200-300 calories) are ideal, and since deficiencies in minerals and amino acids are the source of many hunger cravings, it’s a good time to whip them into your blend. Creamy smoothies made with nuts or seeds (such as walnuts and chia) are excellent in terms of both texture and satiation, and a little bit of whole-food sweetness from fruit keeps serotonin levels (your good mood!) in check. One to try: Pomegranate Blast Smoothie

For dessert | I know plenty of people that lean on smoothies to satisfy their sweet tooth in a guilt-free way, and I think it’s a novel idea! Smoothies can be made to taste like the most decadent treats on the planet, from cake to cookie dough (!), and yet are composed of fully great-for-you foods. And don’t just stop at a basic frozen fruit blend here! Add cacao powder for a divine chocolate treat; cashews for ice-cream-like blends; or a couple strips of dragonfruit for an exotic, tropical twist! One to try: Chocolate Dream Smoothie

Whatever you do, feel confident that a superfood smoothie is always a great choice!

Originally posted on Navitas Naturals. 

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