Smoothies – Great Choice, But Watch the Calories
Tuesday, September 13th, 2011Many people love to “feed the crave” so to speak! North America has officially fallen in love with the “SMOOTHIE”.
It seems that on every 4 blocks or so there is another SMOOTHIE franchise offering these refreshingly fruity snacks.
There is the popular Booster Juice, Jugo Juice, Jamba Juice and many more…
In fact, even McDonalds and Tim Hortons are trying to capitalize on their version of frozen fruit drinks (not nearly as healthy or appetizing).
“Buyer Beware”!
While many smoothies may seem to be healthy options to fast food snacks, you have to remember how easy it is to drink calories. Also remember, sugar converts to fat and fruit is high in sugar.
Sure, an “Original” 24oz SMOOTHIE is full of fruit, yogurt and an added soy protein booster….but I also slurped this 315 calorie treat in 5 min. (Feeling good but also still hungry).
Unfortunately it would take some Internet and math skills to tell the exact amount of sugar per SMOOTHIE.
It seems that every franchise I go into never displays their sugar content (most good shops will only have natural occurring sugar – run away if it is added).
Please don’t take this as a knock to SMOOTHIE snack franchises. I love them!!! However, I am a Milton Personal Trainer and my job is to be active. This allows me to have a higher metabolic rate to help burn the extra calories.
If you are fairly sedentary and want to still include a daily SMOOTHIE into your food regimen – try a junior or snack size. In many cases it will almost be half the calories and sugar.
Remember too, a SMOOTHIE will always be healthier than a burger and fries.
Think I need another right now!



