Yes, athletes need to eat properly to perform at their best, however, athletes also need to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. In addition to water, athletes can benefit from drinking smoothies made with fresh fruits and vegetables.
So, let’s look at the six recipes for delicious and healthy smoothies that will help you power through your next workout.
The Power Berry Smoothie
This smoothie is a great post-workout drink that will help you refuel. The berries, especially blueberries, are full of antioxidants that help fight inflammation and repair cells. The whey protein powder provides a boost, while the banana adds sweetness and extra energy.
Blend 1 cup of frozen blueberries, ½ cup Greek yogurt, 1 scoop of whey protein, ¼ cup almond milk, and one small ripe banana until smooth. This is one of the most healthy and delicious smoothie recipes for combat athletes, and many fitness and nutrition experts agree. And if you need to add a little more sweetness, you can always mix in a teaspoon of honey.
The Green Warrior Smoothie
This smoothie is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that will help you recover after a tough workout. The spinach provides iron and folate, while the avocado gives you essential fatty acids. While the banana adds a touch of sweetness, it also helps to mask the taste of the spinach.
Blend 1 cup of baby spinach, ½ avocado, 1 scoop of protein powder, ¼ cup almond milk, and 1 small ripe banana until smooth. If you find the taste to be too strong for your liking, try adding a teaspoon or two of honey or agave syrup (if you’re vegan) to sweeten it up.
The Coconut Dream Smoothie
This smoothie is a great way to cool down on a hot day after an intense workout. Coconut milk provides healthy fats as well as electrolytes and minerals, while mango adds sweetness and antioxidants. And if you want to give it an extra boost of protein, you can add a scoop of your favorite powder.
Blend 1 cup of coconut milk, ½ cup of frozen mango chunks, 1 scoop of protein powder, and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. For added sweetness and texture, try adding a tablespoon or two of shredded coconut or honey.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more tropical twist, try adding a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice.
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie
For the ones of you who have a sweet tooth, this smoothie is sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the calorie bank. It combines healthy fats from peanut butter and protein powder to make a delicious and nutritious smoothie that will give you sustained energy throughout your workout.
Blend 1 cup of almond milk, 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter, 1 scoop of protein powder, and one small banana until smooth. If you like a bit more sweetness, try adding a tablespoon of honey or ¼ teaspoon of stevia, depending on your preference.
Of course, you can also add a tablespoon of cocoa powder if you want to indulge.
The Orange Creamsicle Smoothie
This smoothie is like an orange creamsicle in liquid form, except for the fact that it’s good for you. The orange juice and banana give it natural sweetness, while the Greek yogurt adds protein and calcium. Plus, it’s like having a mini dessert without all the added sugar.
Blend 1 cup of orange juice, ½ cup Greek yogurt, 1 scoop of protein powder, and one small ripe banana until smooth. For an extra bit of sweetness, try adding a tablespoon or two of honey. If you want to give it a creamy texture, try adding a tablespoon of coconut cream or almond butter.
The Super Green Smoothie
Finally, this smoothie is packed with all kinds of superfoods like spinach, kale, and chia seeds that will give you sustained energy throughout your workout. The mango adds sweetness, while the banana provides fiber and potassium. And if you want to kick it up a notch, you can always add some goji berries or hemp seeds.
Blend 1 cup of spinach, ½ cup of kale, 1 scoop of protein powder, ¼ cup almond milk, ½ cup of frozen mango chunks, and one small ripe banana until smooth. If you want to sweeten it up a bit more, try adding a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup.
These six smoothies provide a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your workout. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that will help you recover after a tough workout. Blending different combinations of fruits and vegetables provides an endless variety of flavors and textures to keep your taste buds happy. So next time you head to the gym, make sure to pack one of these delicious smoothies in your bag.