St. Patrick’s Day is almost here and we’re all hoping it brings us a little more luck this year! But when it comes to staying healthy and feeling our best, it takes more than just luck. What we eat plays a huge role in everything from our energy levels to our risk for chronic diseases. For example, consuming the Dietary Guidelines for American’s recommended servings of dairy a day ensures we are getting the calcium and vitamin D we need to help maintain strong bones and prevent osteoporosis. Sip on a serving of dairy and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with these green smoothies.
Made with Greek yogurt, this smoothie is packed with protein to help fuel your St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. It’s also a great option if you’re lactose intolerant. Live and active cultures found in fermented dairy foods, like Greek yogurt, help your body digest lactose.
Combining avocado with milk not only makes this smoothie extra creamy, but it also creates a “superfood power couple.” Plant foods, like avocado, provide fiber, while milk provides calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. These have all been labeled as “nutrients of concern” by the Dietary Guidelines, meaning many of us are not getting enough. Pairing plant and dairy foods together is an easy and delicious way to meet these nutrient needs.
Smoothies are a great way to include not only dairy, but also more fruits and vegetables in children’s diets. Many kids will turn their nose up at a green drink, but the addition of vanilla frozen yogurt and orange slices in this smoothie creates a creamsicle flavor that will surely win them over!
For more delicious smoothie recipes, check out our dairy drinks page!
