Products
Smoothies (English : soft, gentle, smooth) can be made fresh yourself in many varieties and are also available as ready-made products in stores.
Definition
Smoothies are drinks with a high fruit or vegetable content and a creamy consistency. The ingredients are homogenized with a blender and liquid ingredients such as juice, water or dairy products (e.g. yogurt) can be added. Smoothies are, in the strictest sense, purely natural products and should generally contain no added sugar and no food additives such as flavors, colors and preservatives. Smoothies are not made by squeezing like fruit juices, but from the whole fruits (without inedible parts such as peels). Green smoothies (green smoothies) contain green vegetables such as spinach, cabbage or broccoli in addition to the fruits.
Ingredients
The composition depends on the ingredients used. Possible ingredients include:
- Carbohydrates, sugar
- Proteins
- Antioxidants, secondary plant compounds such as flavonoids.
- Vitamins, minerals, trace elements
- Dietary fiber, dietary fiber
- Little to no fat
Effects
Smoothies supply the organism with valuable nutrients, antioxidants, fiber and vitamins. They are easier to take than the corresponding fruits or vegetables, of which should be consumed daily up to five servings. However, they are less filling and blood sugar peaks more quickly. The low fiber content of some convenience foods is also criticized.
Areas of application
As part of a healthy diet as a supplement for the intake of sufficient fruits and vegetables.
Dosage
Smoothies should be taken no more than once or twice daily as a substitute for a serving of fruit or vegetables.
Contraindications
If you have diabetes mellitus, caution is advised because of the sugar content. Depending on its composition, a smoothie has a high energy density and more calories than the same volume of Coca-Cola!
Adverse effects
High-calorie smoothies with lots of sugar can promote the development of obesity if consumed in excess. Smoothies also contain acids and thus can lead to tooth enamel erosion and tooth decay. It is recommended that teeth be brushed before, rather than immediately after, drinking them. Other possible side effects include indigestion.
