18 Smoothies That Won’t Cancel Out Your Workout
You’ve just finished a killer workout and now you’re starving. But before you cancel out all those calories you just burned by indulging in a sugary drink or granola bar, help your muscles recover with one of these healthy, post-workout smoothies. The right smoothie can boost your metabolism, keep your energy high and help you keep burning calories long after your workout. Whether you’re in the mood for something green or want to pack in some extra protein, we’ve got 18 super-healthy smoothies to keep you feeling good.
1. Blueberry Green Tea: Craving something super green? This one has got three greens with amazing superpowers: chlorella, spirulina and matcha. Between those three, you’ve got plenty of B-vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids, iron and chlorophyll to improve immunity, alkalinity and reduce inflammation. (via The Fresh Method)
2. Chocolate Chia Recovery Drink: Here’s a creamy, rich chocolate protein shake that’s perfect for post-workout recovery. There is no dairy — only coconut water — and it’s loaded with natural electrolytes, healthy fats, fiber and tons of protein. (via Minimalist Baker)
3. Peanut Butter, Banana and Oat Milk: Creamy peanut butter gives this smoothie a milkshake flavor, but we promise it’s all healthy. Bananas, nut milk and flax seeds make for beautiful insides and outsides. (via Refinery 29)
4. Red Cabbage Smoothie: Craving something sweet, refreshing and really purple? Add red cabbage, cucumber, pear and mint for a very photogenic smoothie. (via Decor8)
5. Chocolate Smoothie: Don’t laugh, chocolate is a superfood, up there alongside spinach and blueberries. Blend up some dark chocolate shavings with an avocado and a handful of chia seeds for a smoothie that will have your skin glowing. (via Ren Behan)
6. Grapefruit Green Smoothie: Tart and zesty, the grapefruit offers detoxifying benefits while spinach provides lots of vitamins and minerals. (via Minimalist Baker)
7. Pineapple Turmeric Smoothie: Recover immediately after your workout with this delicious smoothie. The ratio of carbs-to-protein replenishes muscle glycogen. Fresh turmeric and pineapple give a boost of antioxidant support. (via My Vega)
8. Mexican Chocolate Smoothie: Spices like cinnamon and cayenne boost your metabolism and keeps those calories burning long after your workout. (via Vega Sport)
9. Creamy Green Smoothie: After a tough workout, you need a nutrient-rich smoothie to give you some serious fuel. Banana, almond milk, vanilla powder and coconut oil will give you all the healthy fats, carbs and protein you need for muscle recovery. (via Lexi’s Clean Kitchen)
10. Immune-Booster Orange Smoothie: You’ll never believe the secret ingredient in this creamy, orange smoothie: sweet potato! A perfect balance of sweetness and spice and with less than 10 ingredients, this smoothie is perfect for a quick pick-me-up. (via Minimalist Baker)
11. Five-Ingredient Detox: Offset some holiday decadence with an easy, superfood smoothie. Frozen berries make a cold and creamy texture and spinach and flax seeds add antioxidants and Omega-3s. (via Minimalist Baker)
12. Blueberry Protein Smoothie: Adding a scoop of protein powder helps give you a more well-rounded and balanced smoothie that will keep you feeling full for longer, so you don’t cave and sneak some unhealthy snacks. (via Country Cleaver)
13. Berry Almond Smoothie: Using greek yogurt as a base for your smoothies will make them extra-creamy; your skin and digestive system will thank you for the live enzymes. (via Amazing Almonds)
14. Easy Peach Smoothie: Coconut milk and a dash of cinnamon will have you fooled into thinking you’re drinking a peach milkshake instead of a fresh and healthy snack. (via She Wears Many Hats)
15. Mango Lime Smoothie: Creamy and tangy, this smoothie is sweetened with honey. Raw honey is great for all skin types, promotes healthy skin tone and can even help prevent aging. We’ll drink to that. (via Minimalist Baker)
16. Blueberry Peach Kale Smoothie: Hide your greens under a delicious disguise of creamy peaches and purple berries. Kale is packed with Vitamin K, Vitamin A, fiber and omega-3 fats and blueberries give a boost of brain power. (via Snack Rules)
17. Green and Orange Smoothie: Full of vitamins, fiber and a dash of cinnamon to give it a spicy kick, the smoothie tastes like a creamier, greener version of your usual orange juice. (via Pop Sugar)
18. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Smoothie: Oatmeal in a smoothie? Absolutely. Just think of it as a hearty breakfast that you can drink on your way back from the gym. If you want it sweeter, add some honey or coconut milk. (via The Kitchen Paper)
What are your favorite ingredients to put in smoothies? Share your tips in the comments below!