Hydrate with This Protein-Packed Strawberry Smoothie with Yogurt Recipe

• 1 cup milk (8-ounces)
• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup ice cubes

Notes

Serving size: 8 ounces

Smoothies made with Greek yogurt, milk, honey, and berries offer several advantages, as each ingredient is key to hydration, nutrition, and satiety.

Greek Yogurt:

Greek yogurt is looked at by many as a superfood because of its high protein content and low carbohydrate content. One six-ounce serving of Greek yogurt has between 15 to 20 grams of protein and five to six grams of carbohydrates. This translates to twice the protein content and half the carbs of regular yogurt, which offers a much higher satiety (feeling of fullness). The high amount of calcium in Greek yogurt also helps to eliminate belly fat. Those who are lactose intolerant can have Greek yogurt because it is naturally lactose-free. Greek yogurt is chock full of probiotics which aid digestion, and make the immune system stronger.

Milk:

Real cow’s milk is nutrition in a glass for people in all walks of life. With protein, calcium, vitamin D, B12, riboflavin (B2), selenium, iodine, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, niacin (B3), potassium, vitamin A, and zinc, cow’s milk is not only nutritious but creamy and delicious. It is a proven effective post-workout recovery drink. Real milk helps to lower blood pressure, reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, and reduce the risk of type II diabetes. Regular milk is not lactose-free like Greek yogurt. If you are lactose-sensitive, make sure to buy lactose-free milk, which has all of the same benefits as regular milk.

Strawberries:

Berries are among the best fruits to eat because of their overall lower calorie content and higher fiber content than most fruits. Specifically, berries have been touted as one of the healthiest foods to eat when in season because they contain fiber and prebiotics which help promote a healthy gut. Strawberries in particular are loaded with antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids which boost memory. Antioxidants reduce the risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. In addition, strawberries are free of cholesterol, sodium, and gluten. Magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, folate (B9), and vitamin K.

Honey:

It is very important to buy raw local honey when you can, as it has more nutrients and antioxidants. While many people avoid honey because of its high sugar content, it makes up for this in many other ways. Raw honey has amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. To highlight, honey has a good amount of iron and zinc. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help prevent cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and neurological diseases. Have you ever tasted pure honey from the jar? It’s absolutely delicious and is a great natural sweetener.