August Health Tips: Keeping Cool

August is usually the summer month where it starts to really heat up (at least in So. Cal.), and although it is nice to relax with an ice cold beer, I wanted to share some healthful snacks to help you stay cool.

SMOOTHIES!

Smoothies are my go to when I want to cool off and incorporate necessary nutrients, fiber and protein into my day. The frozen fruits that I like to add are strawberries, pineapples, and berries; all of which are high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sugar. I also supplement my smoothies with protein powder or cashews (or both), chia seeds (for fiber), and a nut milk…and Voila, a refreshing summer treat. Of course, smoothies can be customized to your liking, and it is also a great way to hide the taste of vegetables like broccoli, spinach or kale! Here is my recipe for my go-to smoothie:

Ingredients

¼ c frozen mixed berries (I use the blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry mix from Costco)
¾ cup mixed fruit (I use a tropical mix from Costco of strawberry, mango, pineapple, and papaya)
1- 1 ½ cup of milk or nut milk
1 serving of protein powder of your choice (optional)
2 tablespoons of chia seeds (optional)
2 tablespoons of cashews (optional)
Green vegetables (optional)