If you were already on a healthy living track, and now you are going to a plant-based dietary plan, you may already be using smoothies. Smoothies have many benefits and can be adapted into your daily plant-based routine fairly easily.
The key aspect to remember is that some smoothies, as they are, do not fit a plant-based plan. Here are some of the main components to change for a plant-based smoothie routine.
Removing Dairy
You may already know that dairy is an issue since it is not plant-based. Unfortunately, you may not know how to replace it in smoothies if you are used to using yogurt or even whole milk as a base. You can remove the dairy and instead use orange juice to replace it.
You can also forgo the option of juice or milk and use just the fruits and some water. If you are worried about using tap water or even filtered water, try using coconut water to help boost the immune system and the benefits of the smoothie.
Change from Powder to Plants
In most smoothies, you may be used to using a protein powder to give you not only your protein, but also some other nutrients you are trying to get into your diet. The problem with using powders is that you are not always getting a total plant-based product.
Even some that are labeled plant-based may not be once you start adding the processes the powder goes through and the preservatives it has in it.
Since this is the case, you want to swap out the protein powder for plant based superfoods that have protein. This will give you the same result from an organic source with no processing or preservatives.
Change Up Your Greens and Fruits
You may get into a rut when it comes to your smoothies. This rut is due to people wanting to maintain a certain amount of nutrients in each smoothie. They figure if nothing is wrong with the smoothie, then there is no need to change it or swap it out.
This is especially true if the smoothie is already a plant-based option. The truth is, your body may get used to the smoothies and it can cause issues overtime. Bloating, inflammation, and constipation can occur. To avoid this, go ahead and change up your greens and fruits every two weeks. This will help keep a rotation and keep nutrients going into your body at a normal rate.
You may be wondering how to change these main components and ensure that you are getting true plant-based options and organic foods. Instead of looking for labels that are plant-based simply look for vegan options.
The vast majority of the vegan options out there are not only organic, but also non-GMO. This will make finding the swaps easier.
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