Low Carb Smoothies Energize
Low carb smoothies encourage healthy blood sugar levels, nutrient absorption and weight loss. Find out how.
A food's macronutrients such as protein carbohydrates and fat have different concentrations of calories or units of heat energy. Protein and carbohydrates have 4 calories per gram while fats have 9 calories per gram. These nutrients are needed in greater amounts for growth, metabolic processes and protection to name a few. For example, carbohydrates are used by the body for energy.
Low Carb Smoothies As Digested
In digestion, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose which travels through the blood stream. With the help of insulin, energy is provided to organs and cells. When glucose enters the bloodstream, blood sugar levels are raised. The pancreas in turn secretes insulin. An excess of glucose is converted to glycogen. This is stored in the liver and muscles as an energy reserve in the short run. The entire process regulates blood sugar. One problem may be a constant influx of too much sugar. Extra glucose will be stored as body fat. Therefore, it is important to have healthy low carb smoothies for the body to function smoothly and not invite diabetes or obesity.
A type of carbohydrate that the body can't digest is fiber. Therefore, fiber does not have an effect on the level of blood glucose. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and slows down digestion. This makes one feel fuller so as not to overeat. Soluble fiber is found in grapefruit, apricots, oranges and asparagus. Insoluble fiber cleanses the intestines and helps in elimination. Include dark leafy green vegetables and cauliflower in low carb smoothies for the benefits of insoluble fiber. Plants are a natural source of dietary fiber. Fruits such as apples contain both soluble fiber and insoluble fiber as part of the skin.
According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines For Americans, carbohydrates should comprise some 45 to 65 percent of your caloric intake. Low carb smoothies promote good health. Filled with healthy carbohydrates and fiber, they are an excellent choice to meet the daily carbohydrate percentage without adding unnecessary calories and boosting blood sugar. The carbohydrate and sugar content of these fruits are on the lower side, while the vitamins minerals and antioxidant power soar.
Low total carbohydrate count (includes fiber)
Raspberries – 7 carbs per 1/2 cup serving
Cranberries – 6 carbs per 1/2 cup serving
Strawberries – 12 carbs per cup
Lemons – 5.5 carbs per fruit
Low to Medium total carbohydrate count
Apples – 19 grams per fruit
Apricots – 18 grams per cup
Blueberries – 10 carbs per 1/2 cup serving
Papaya – 14 carbs per cup
Peaches – 10 carbs per peach
For a boost in nutrition, add these low carbohydrate vegetables to low carb smoothies
Celery – 3.5 grams per cup
Lettuce – 1.5 grams per cup of romaine lettuce
Spinach – 1.1 grams per cup
Enjoy low carb smoothies for optimal use of energy and nutrition.
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Low Carb Smoothies
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