If there's one thing I definitely crave during the summertime its delicious smoothies. A nice, cold smoothie is all I need to fill my appetite and keep me cool on those boiling hot days. It's no surprise that these tasty beverages also hold a tremendous amount of nutrients and health-boosting benefits. But what you probably didn't know is that they can make you look gorgeous too!
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How you look on the outside also has a lot to do with what you put in the inside. Want to look your best this summer? Then toss some greens and vitamin-rich fruits into your blender for the perfect pick-me-up. Check out some of my five favorite beautifying smoothies recipes below. They'll make you look just as great as they taste!
For glowing skin: A smoothie that's high on calcium, iron, and protein not only leaves skin smooth and radiant, but also helps protect it against the sun's harmful UV rays. Try one that's rich in berries and chia seeds.
Smoothie recipe: Combine 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries with 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 orange, 1 ripe banana, 1/2 cup of fat-free plain yogurt, 1/2 cup extra firm silken tofu, 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, and 1 teaspoon of agave nectar.
For clear skin: Struggling with breakouts? Try a smoothie that's rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and that's going to keep skin smooth and hydrated.
Smoothie recipe: Throw in 1 scoop of wheat protein with 1/2 cup of organic blueberries, 1/2 bunch of dendelin greens (no stems), 11 oz. of coconut water, 1/4 avocado, and 1 tablespoon of raw cacao powder.
For strong nails: The trick is to create a smoothie that's rich in protein and greens. Try one that's filled with essential greens and a variety of berries.
Smoothie recipe: Blend 1 cup of water with 2-3 cups of baby kale leaves, 1 cup of frozen mixed berries, 2 tablespoons of goji berries, half a peeled banana and 2 tablespoons of chia seeds.
For shiny hair: I absolutely loved the shiny hair-booster smoothie Kimberly Synder, author of the Beauty Detox Solution created for Dr. Oz. The deliciously sweet recipe is loaded with protein, essential fatty acids, and vitamins that help promote a head full of a healthy, shiny hair.
Smoothie recipe: Simply blend 2 cups of unsweetened almond milk with 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 a teaspoon of cinnamon, and Stevia (or sweetener of your choice).
To fight cellulite: Dr. Howard Murad, dermatologist and founder of Murad skincare products, recommends a collagen boosting smoothie to help fight off dimpled skin.
Smoothie recipe: He suggests blending one frozen sliced banana with 1 cup of frozen berries, 1/2 cup of pomegranate juice, 1/4 cup of green tea, 1/4 cup of soy milk, and 1 teaspoon of flax seeds.
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