PB & Banana Smoothie

Banana SmoothieAs a child, I remember making myself peanut butter and fluff sandwiches after school. Ok, probably explains why I struggled with my weight as a child… Anyway, I have been searching for a healthy replacement for this favorite childhood snack. I think, I may have found it in this PB & Banana Smoothie. Let me know what you think!

Here’s a breakdown of the potential health benefits of consuming smoothies:

  1. Nutrient Intake: A well-prepared smoothie can be a nutrient-dense beverage. By including a variety of fruits and vegetables, you can obtain a range of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients.
  2. Easy Digestibility: Blending fruits and vegetables breaks down some of the cell walls of the produce, which can make nutrients more accessible for absorption.
  3. Hydration: Many smoothie recipes include water, coconut water, almond milk, or other hydrating ingredients. This helps to increase your fluid intake, especially if you’re someone who doesn’t drink enough water throughout the day.
  4. Fiber: Unlike fruit juices, smoothies retain the fiber from fruits and vegetables. This can aid digestion, help manage blood sugar levels, and promote feelings of fullness.
  5. Versatility: Smoothies are versatile. You can tailor the ingredients based on your nutritional needs or preferences. For example, adding protein powder or Greek yogurt can increase protein content, while adding chia seeds or flaxseeds can provide essential fatty acids.
  6. Weight Management: Smoothies can be a tool for weight management when used correctly. They can serve as a filling, low-calorie snack or as a meal replacement if they’re nutritionally balanced.
  7. Convenience: Smoothies are quick and easy to prepare, making them a convenient choice for those who need a fast, nutritious option.
  8. Promotes Consumption of Fruits and Vegetables: Some individuals struggle with consuming the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables daily. Smoothies can be a tasty and appealing way to increase intake.

However, it’s crucial to note that not all smoothies are created equal. Some commercial smoothies are loaded with added sugars and can be calorically dense, making them less healthy choices. It’s essential to be mindful of the ingredients you’re adding to ensure your smoothie remains a nutritious choice.

Ingredients for PB & Banana Smoothie

  • 1 banana
  • 1/2 cup of 2% Fage Greek Yogurt or any low fat plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp of Peanut Powder (found in the peanut butter and jelly section of grocery store)
  • 1/2 cup of 1% milk
  • 1 tsp of honey to taste (optional)
  • A few ice cubes

Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients for the PB & Banana Smoothie in a blender and turn to mix. Once the ice is crushed, turn blender up to puree for 1 minute.
  2. Pour into a glass of your choosing and enjoy your PB & Banana Smoothie!

Additional Notes

  • If you have a child that needs to gain weight, consider substituting out the low fat Greek yogurt with whole milk Greek yogurt and peanut powder to peanut butter.
  • You can make two servings of this drink, if 310 calories is too much for a serving.

Banana Smoothie Nutrition

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