Smoothie Goodness

All my life I've had a weight problem.  Briefly, between my freshman and junior years in college, I believed the problem solved after Weight Watchers (though I couldn't afford to finish the program and get my lifetime membership).  Unfortunately, since my husband and I first began dating, we've gradually gained more and weight and become less and less active.  I guess you could say we were going for the fat and happy lifestyle.  Now it's to the point where I am obese again, I have a closet bursting with clothing that's too small, and I've lost the motivation to exercise.

Now, I don't bring this up for pity.  This situation is my fault and I have to climb out of this abyss and conquer it on my own (with the help of God, of course).  I mention this because we are slowly trying to develop healthy habits and have begun having fresh fruit smoothies nearly everyday.

These smoothies are an excellent source of fruit, covering 2 servings of the desired daily amount.  Not to mention they're filling and are a great replacement for a meal such as breakfast or lunch-- I believe in a nice hearty dinner.

Give this excellent recipe a try and feel free to mix it up a bit.  The best part about smoothies is their flexibility of flavors.

Fresh Fruit Smoothies for Two

2 Bananas

8 to 10 Strawberries

1 small can Pineapple Juice

4T Orange Juice

10 Ice Cubes

Toss in a blender and blend until smooth.  Garnish with a strawberry on the side of the glass.

Smoothie Tips

Substitute real pineapple for pineapple juice, and add more orange juice.

Try various juices like orange, pineapple, grapefruit, lemonade and limeade, though keep an eye on the sugar content.

For more anti-oxidants, toss in blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, and decrease the banana.  Pomegranate Juice is great as well.

Banana is the thickener, so use more or less depending on thickness preference.  You can use milk, but the flavor becomes diluted unless you add sugar.

Frozen fruit is great to use since it's cheaper, lasts longer, and doesn't require as much or any ice depending on how much you use.

And if you're worried about cost, think about it.  You spend more on a bunch of bananas, container of strawberries, and the juice, but you could end up with about 5 to 6 single servings with just the fresh fruit.  The juice will last even longer.  A much cheaper alternative to Jamba Juice, and dairy free!