During the summer months, the warm weather has many of us content to spend our days lounging around and enjoying the sun. While this may seem like a relaxing way to spend the summer, it’s important to also make the time to get enough physical exercise.
Most teenagers don’t relish the idea of getting up bright and early to avoid being out in the heat of the day, and often later in the evening, teenagers may find themselves occupied with other activities and without time to exercise. On days like these, it is easy to simply just brush off exercise as something that will miraculously occur sometime in the near future, and that’s when dedication and technique comes into play.
On a hot day, a cold drink is always a great way to cool off, especially after physical activity like running or hiking. Here’s a great recipe for a cool and tasty smoothie that also packs a nutritional punch to keep you running at your very best.
Green Smoothie:
1/2 c. blueberries (I use frozen)
1 banana (I freeze this as well to make for a smoother texture)
1 to 1 and 1/2 c. mixed greens, spinach, kale, or other leafy greens
1/4 c. yogurt (I use plain)
1/4 c. carrots
1/4 to 1/2 c. liquid (I use iced green tea, but juice will work as well)
1.c ice (if desired)
Simply put all the ingredients in a blender, blend until smooth, and enjoy!
For those new to having “green” smoothies I would recommend reducing the greens to blueberries ratio, as green smoothies can taste a little more bitter than most are used to. That being said, over time it is a taste that is definitely acquired, and is a great way to get in enough servings of antioxidant rich leafy greens, while enjoying a cool drink on a warm summer day!