How To Lose Weight With Breakfast Smoothies

Drinking a smoothie every morning for breakfast is a highly nutritious way to start the day. A fruit or vegetable smoothie can help control food cravings during the remainder of the day; many food cravings occur when the body is deficient of nutrients. For example, chocolate cravings are frequently caused by a magnesium deficiency. Because the high mineral and vitamin content contained in a fruit or vegetable smoothie quickly addresses a nutrient imbalance, you are less likely to eat unhealthy foods. The steady slow release of energy provided by fresh fruits and vegetables will also prevent the desire to eat sugar-laden foods commonly felt when blood sugar levels are unstable.

Step 1

Pour a liquid base into your blender. This can be freshly squeezed juice or pure water. Water is optimal if you are in a hurry. The amount of liquid base you use will depend on your personal preferred consistency of your smoothie. Usually 1/3 cup of water is adequate. If you are unsure, use less rather than more, as you can always add a little more later.

Step 2

Add a handful of fresh leafy greens to the blender. According to Victoria Boutenko, author of "Green for Life," drinking a daily dose of leafy green vegetables in a smoothie is akin to having a healthy blood transfusion, as a molecule of chlorphyll found in leafy greens bears a close resemblance to a molecule of human blood. Boutenko states that adding a daily green smoothie to a diet can induce several pounds of weight loss per month, even when no other changes are implemented.

Spinach, kale, romaine lettuce or collards are perfect choices, but any leafy greens can be used. Parsley is a blood purifier, antioxidant, and natural diuretic and, therefore, an ideal ingredient for a weight loss breakfast smoothie. However you may find the taste too strong, so until your taste buds are accustomed, use sparingly. Turn your blender on, and blend for around a minute, or until the greens are liquidized.

Step 3

Take three pieces of fruit or vegetables. The vegetables or fruits your choose may depend on how much time you have as some are much quicker to prepare that others. Citrus fruits, bananas and mangoes should be peeled. Remove the large center stone from fruits such as peaches or plums. All produce should be washed well, and if your fruit has a waxy shine, which is commonly found on cucumbers and apples, peel the fruit or scrub it well. Carrots should be scrubbed or peeled, and apples are preferable when cored. Pre-prepared frozen fruits can also be used if you are in a hurry. When your produce is washed or peeled, cut it into large pieces and add it to your blender.

Step 4

Blend the ingredients. The amount of time you spend blending will depend on the blender you are using, as well as your preferred consistency. Some people like smoothies to be perfectly smooth, while others prefer them to be a little chunky. If you find the smoothie is too thick for your liking, gradually add more water.

Step 5

Drink your smoothie. If possible, it is optimal to drink your smoothie immediately after blending, as fruits and vegetables lose some enzymes after being cut. If it is not feasible for you to prepare and consume your breakfast smoothies immediately, store them in the fridge. Refrigerated smoothies will last up to three days.