breakfast smoothiesBreakfast may be the most important meal of the day, but that doesn't mean you always have to make it a huge production. In fact, lots of people (*raises hand!*) can't always stomach a lot of heavy foods like oatmeal or eggs so early in the morning.

Recently, I started drinking my breakfast on some mornings instead of eating it, and let me tell you, I can totally tell the difference. Not only are fruit smoothies jam-packed with fiber and vitamins, but liquids in the morning are supposed to be gentler on the digestive system, and I definitely feel lighter. At first, I was suspect that blended fruit and juice could get me through until lunch, but once I got used to it, I found it very satisfying. And, I even felt like I had more energy.

I've been experimenting with different fruits and fruit juices (with no sugar added). Here are some of my favorite combinations so far:

1. Mango-Carrot-Mint (adapted from this recipe on Whole Living)

  • 8 oz. frozen mango chunks
  • 1 cup carrot juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves

Throw all ingredients into blender, and blend until smooth, adding more juice if it's too thick.

 

2. Frozen Berries and Mint

  • 8 oz. frozen strawberries and raspberries (or your favorite berries)
  • 1 cup pomegranate juice (no sugar added)
  • Juice from half a lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves

Throw all ingredients into blender, and blend until smooth, adding more juice if it's too thick.

 

3. Avocado-Pineapple

  • 1/2 ripe avocado, cut in chunks
  • 4 oz. frozen pineapple chunks
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves

Throw all ingredients into blender, and blend until smooth, adding more juice if it's too thick.

What's your favorite smoothie recipe to make for breakfast?

 

Image via khawkins04/Flickr