Ask a Dietitian
"Diana, just a quick heads up to let you know we are still using your cookbook and the guys will often be heard saying what would Diana say about this or that....really good feed back... I made your potato salad and the oriental coleslaw on Sat. for a family luncheon and had rave reviews so thanks again."
BC Hydro
The Smoothie Craze
As seen on BCTV October 19/99
No time to cook, eating on the run, but still interested in eating something reasonable – enter the smoothie. Really nothing more than fruit and maybe yogurt or other protein whirled in the blender, smoothies are hot!
Smoothies are the perfect solution for those with no time for breakfast and depending how they’re made, they can be nutrient packed:
Calcium and Protein would be supplied by milk, yogurt, skim milk powder or tofu. Fibre would come from adding whole fruits or wheat germ. Vitamins and minerals – especially vitamins A, C and potassium would come from the fruit or juice.
Smoothies are easy to make. Simply throw the ingredients in a blender and whirl.
My favorite smoothies are:
1. The Tofu Orange Banana made of 1/3 cup soft or dessert-style tofu, 1 cup OJ and a frozen banana.
2. The Peanut Butter Banana made of 1 cup skim milk, 1-2 tbsp peanut butter and a frozen banana.
3. The Strawberry Milkshake made of 1 cup skim or vanilla soy milk and 1/3 cup frozen strawberries.
But, like everything else in nutrition, balance is still important. Because smoothies are easy to consume, stay aware of portion control as calories can add up. Emphasize low fat, quality ingredients as opposed to rich ones. Drink immediately after making as smoothies can turn brown quick due to the fruit.
Watch for the Eating for Energy segment every Tuesday on BCTV’s Noon News Hour!