It has been so hot and humid here in London, all I've been craving in the mornings is something cool and light - these two smoothies have been my go to's for a quick, healthy breakfast.
Opting for an only fruit smoothie can mean we have an energy spike and crash from the abundance of natural sugar, so if you're anything like me, before you know it you're hungry again, a bit cranky and eyeing up the biscuit tin.
These two smoothie recipes have a balance of healthy fat and protein added, to help keep you satisfied and energised until lunch.
Energising breakfast smoothie recipes
Blueberry nut butter smoothie
Makes 1 portion
½ cup frozen blueberries
1 banana
1tbsp almond butter (or peanut butter)
¾ cup unsweetened almond or oat milk
1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
A handful of kale or spinach leaves (optional)
1. Add bananas, blueberries, nut butter, chia seeds, almond milk and kale/spinach (if using) to a blender, and blend on high until creamy and smooth. If it is too thick, add more almond milk.
2. Taste and adjust as needed, you could add a tsp of maple syrup for sweetness.
Tip: Frozen raspberries are also very delicious in this recipe in place of blueberries.
Almond Cacao Smoothie*
Makes 1 portion
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 scoop protein powder (optional)
½ tbsp cacao powder
1-2 cups kale, chopped and loosely packed
½ small avocado
¼ cup ice cubes
1. Put all ingredients in a blender in the order listed.
2. Blend, starting on low speed and working up to high speed, until smooth.
*Recipe from Institute of Functional Medicine's Renew Plan
Keeping you full until lunch
A nutritious breakfast is a wonderful thing - it can keep your blood sugar levels balanced, boost energy levels and prevent sugar cravings later in the day too, so you'll be less likely to crave the sweet stuff come 3pm.
The key is to include whole foods that contain healthy fat, protein or whole grains. Think avocados, nuts, nut butter, seeds and whole grains like oats - in combination with nutritious fruits (and even veg!)
A smoothie can be a great way to combine these quickly, and set you up well for the day.
What's your favourite smoothie combination? Let me know in the comments below.