History of smoothies:
– Health food stores on the West Coast of the United States began selling smoothies with the invention of the electric blender.
– The term “smoothie” was used in recipes and trademarks by the mid-1980s.
– Steve Kuhnau, inspired by his work as a soda jerk in the 1960s, experimented with smoothies as an alternative for the lactose intolerant.
– Smoothie King was founded by Kuhnau and expanded throughout the United States, pioneering other smoothie businesses.
– Consumers started making smoothies at home in the 2000s as a way to consume more fruits and vegetables.
Nutrition of smoothies:
– The nutrition of a smoothie depends on its ingredients and proportions.
– Many smoothies contain large servings of fruits and vegetables, recommended for a healthy diet and as meal replacements.
– Fruit juice high in sugar can increase caloric intake and promote weight gain.
– Ingredients like protein powders, sweeteners, or ice cream may be added to smoothies.
– A study found that despite providing the same energy as unblended foods, smoothies are less satiating.
Types of smoothies:
– Green smoothie typically consists of 40–50% green vegetables and the rest fruit.
– Protein smoothie is a mix of water or milk, protein powder, fruits, and vegetables, often used as a protein supplement.
– Yogurt smoothie includes yogurt for protein and a creamy texture, with Greek yogurt being a common choice.
– Smoothies are part of Indian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines, with variations like fruit sharbat and lassi.
– Some smoothies around the world include yogurt and honey, like in fruit sharbat from South Asia.
Green smoothie:
– Typically contains 40–50% green vegetables and the rest fruit.
– Bitterness of raw green leafy vegetables can be balanced with sweet fruits.
– A nutritious option with a balance of greens and fruits for a healthy beverage.
– Popular green vegetables used include spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and broccoli.
– Green smoothies are a convenient way to consume a mix of fruits and vegetables.
Protein smoothie:
– Combination of water or milk, protein powder, fruits, and vegetables.
– Consumed as a protein supplement to increase protein intake.
– Protein powder taste can be improved with the addition of fruits or sweeteners.
– Can be consumed at any time of the day.
– Provides a convenient way to boost protein intake.
Yogurt smoothie:
– Contains yogurt for protein and a creamy texture.
– Greek yogurt is often used for its thickening properties and health benefits.
– Yogurt smoothies are popular for their creamy consistency and protein content.
– Can be customized with various fruits and flavors.
– A nutritious option for a satisfying and creamy beverage.
Around the world:
– Smoothies are part of Indian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines.
– Fruit sharbat from South Asia includes yogurt and honey.
– In India, lassi is a popular smoothie made with yogurt, sugar, and mango.
– Pineapple smoothies without yogurt are common in southern India.
– Smoothies have different variations globally, reflecting local tastes and ingredients.
A smoothie is a beverage made by puréeing ingredients in a blender. A smoothie commonly has a liquid base, such as fruit juice or milk or yogurt. Other ingredients may be added, including fruits, vegetables, non-dairy milk, crushed ice, whey powder or nutritional supplements.
