Sweetening Your Morning Smoothie Naturally

By Donna Stark

Just because you have taken the obvious steps to cut out all the sodas, candy bars, cookies, and decadent coffee drinks, that doesn't mean you have removed all the sources of sugar in your diet. If you love to start your days with a morning smoothie, you may want to double-check the ingredients that you throw in the blender because, believe it or not, there could be more refined sugar in that beverage than you actually think. And there is nothing sweet about that.

Reducing Refined Sugar

High sugar consumption can lead to serious health issues, such as diabetes, depression, heart disease, and certain cancers, so it's important to understand exactly what you are putting in your body. It's also important to realize that what may look healthy, could be loaded with too much sweetness. Fortunately, when it comes to your morning fuel, there are plenty of healthier ways to make your breakfast smoothie taste good. Here are some great suggestions.

• Bananas - Bananas are the perfect foundation for any smoothie. They have a mild flavor, a natural sweetness, and are packed with vitamins, potassium, and fiber. On top of that, they are a great choice for those who are trying to lose weight and increase muscle strength! You can't go wrong with bananas, so pick some up the next time you are at the store. And if you can't use them fast enough, don't worry! They freeze amazingly well!
• Maple sugar - Be careful with this option. Make sure you are purchasing the purest form of maple syrup to reap all its benefits. Wondering what kind of benefits come with pure maple syrup? Well, among other nutrients, it contains zinc, so if you are looking for as many sneaky ways as you can to strengthen your immune system, this could be one of them.
• Coconut water - Do you usually use water and then add sweetener to your smoothie or do you prefer to stick with those sweet fruit juices instead? Here's something different to consider ... coconut water! Coconut water is naturally sweet and packed with electrolytes, which makes it the perfect way to fuel your body after your early morning workout!
• Medjool dates - Want to improve your immune system, blood pressure, digestion, and cognitive skills while enjoying your deliciously sweet smoothie? Look no further than Medjool dates. With their natural sweetness and incredible health benefits, Medjool dates are a fantastic option to choose.

Naturally Sweet Smoothies

Start your day on a healthier foot by reducing more of your sugar intake and sweetening your breakfast smoothie naturally with the suggestions above! You'll love the new flavors, but you'll love how well you feel even more. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Renton, Wash.