Choose
a One-Hundred-Percent Fruit Mix
In order to get the nutrients we need,
the Food Guide recommends adult women get seven to eight servings of fruits and
vegetables a day, while men require between eight and ten. 100% percent fruit
mixes are a delicious way to meet that goal. There are a variety of fruit mixes
currently on the market, including frozen mixed berries or ready-to-go
smoothies. One of the more versatile versions is 100% fruit mix made with fruit
pulp, puree and juice, chock full of healthy goodies.
What
to Look for in a Fruit Mix Concentrate
It’s important that consumers check
labels. Often, products are sold by "green washing”, with labels that promote a
healthy looking product but on closer examination is far from healthy. Look for
100% natural fruit juices. Avoid products with ingredients such as added
sugars, artificial preservatives, flavors or coloring. Check if the product is
shelf-stable or must be refrigerated and used immediately. Choose products that
are certified non-GMO as the long-term safety of genetically-modified organisms
has not been scientifically proven. For those with gluten sensitivities or who
require Kosher foods, check labels carefully.
A terrific new 100% fruit mix on the
market is the Smartfruit label. This fruit mix concentrate (or smoothie mix as some might refer to) has
the healthy benefits of three servings of fruit in every 16 oz. smoothie as
well as a smart boost in every product:
- Oat fiber: filling you up, making you
feel satisfied longer
- Antioxidants: helping slow the aging
process by fighting free radicals
- Electrolytes: restoring minerals that
are eliminated during strenuous exercise and keeping the body from becoming
dehydrated
- Detoxifiers: help the body rid itself
of unwanted toxins
- Flavonoids: giving protection against
some cancers
- Omega-3 fats: vital for good eye and
heart health
- Energy and immune system boosters
Smoothie
Recipes
Thick fruit mix concentrates can be
made into refreshing juices by adding sparkling water. They can be quickly used
as a base for smoothies just by blending them with ice. However, to boost their
nutritional value even further, combine fruit mixes with milk, yogurt or almond
milk. Blend them with a banana or mango. Throw in a handful of spinach or kale
for a serving of vegetables. You can boost the protein count by scooping in a
tablespoon of peanut butter. 100% fruit mix concentrates can be combined with
milk and ice cream to make a delicious milkshake, drizzled over frozen yogurt
or added to salad dressings. They can even be shaken with chilled vodka for a
fruity, sparkling martini. To get all
the daily nutrients required in a healthy diet, all you need is the right fruit
mix and a little imagination. For more inspiration, check out Smartfruit’s recipe
page.