No longer a quick fix for a sweet tooth, smoothies are becoming our go-tos for quick (and delicious) nourishment. Who knew that smoothies would become just as trendy as the lob or the signature red lippie! While we are well aware of smoothies’ effects on our physical health, they are also chock-full of benefits for your complexion. We chatted with registered dietitians (and smoothie enthusiasts) Lauren O’Connor and Dawn Jackson Blatner on how to make smoothies a regular supplement to your beauty routine — and here’s what they had to say. For Anti-Wrinkle Action ...Avocados may seem like a weird ingredient for a smoothie, but O’Connor insists they’re a must. “With its mild flavor and creamy texture, avocado is an ideal thickener for any smoothie,” she says. “It provides skin-protecting nutrients such as monounsaturated oleic acid, heart-healthy omega-3s and vitamins E and C.” These nutrients also make the avocado great for sealing moisture into the skin and supporting collagen production. In other words, it’s the ultimate wrinkle-fighter. And, we’re all about that.Strawberry, Basil, Avocado Smoothie 1 cup strawberries 3 basil leaves 1/2 medium avocado 5 slices of frozen banana (equivalent to about ¼ of a banana) 1 scoop of chocolate-flavored protein powder 1 cup water or coconut water For Sun-Protection ...Carotene-rich fruits and veggies like tomatoes, carrots and pumpkin are ideal for a sun-protection smoothie. Tomatoes are especially known for keeping the sun’s rays at bay, says O’Conner. “(Tomatoes contain) a carotene compound that may help prevent sunburn and reduce premature aging due to sun damage, according to a study in British Journal of Dermatology.”While most see smoothies as a sweet treat, O’Connor favors a savory (and slightly spicy) formula for those days she wants to give her SPF a helping hand. This smoothie is great for you Bloody Mary lovers.Refreshing Tomato Avocado Gazpacho 1 medium ripe tomato 2 Tbsp tomato salsa 1 Tbsp fresh cilantro 1/2 medium avocado Juice of 1/2 lemon 1/2 medium cucumber 1 cup water For Glowing Skin ...Leafy greens like kale, spinach or arugula are a great addition to any smoothie, especially if you’re looking to give your complexion a radiance boost. “Greens contain carotenoids which actually give the skin a subtle orange, glowing tinge, which is said to be more attractive than bronzed suntan skin,” says Jackson Blatner. “And, of course, they also include a nice dosage of vitamin C, which helps keep collagen healthy and wrinkles far away!” If the idea of a blended salad doesn’t appeal to you, throw in some fruit for added natural sweetness and nutrients. Vitamin-rich bananas and berries are great options. Green Breakfast Smoothie 1 frozen banana 2 tablespoons almond butter (you can also use peanut butter) 2-3 cups of kale or spinach (or a mixture of both!) I cup of soy milk (any other non-dairy milk will do too) 1/2 cup raspberries or strawberries (optional) Want more advice on how to be good to your skin? Check out these skincare tips and tricks!
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