Get Juiced!!!!

By Amber Niswonger

Energy Energy Energy!!! Aren't we all looking for energy? There are many things people use to increase energy. Some of them are coffee and soda. So, before you take your next dose of caffeine pills and down it with a double shot of espresso, think about trying something new for energy. How about a smoothie or juice?

Most of us have heard of smoothies, but what defines a real smoothie that is healthy and good for energy? Well first, I'll talk about what shouldn't be used in a smoothie. Many gas stations, in-store refreshment counters and ice cream places sell what they claim to be smoothies. These usually contain sugary syrups, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, ice and just plain unnatural ingredients. Just look at the ingredients. The truth is that sugary smoothies like these may give you a rush for about five minutes, but no increased energy. Ice is also added sometimes, all this does is water it down.

So you thought you were doing yourself good! Fear not, you can still make a good smoothie! Here are some tips on making good them. Instead of using fruit syrups, just freeze fresh fruit. Add protein powder for a healthy energy boost. Look for protein powder that has vitamins, bee pollen, soy or ginseng. You won't need to add sugar or sweeteners because the fruit has natural sugar in it already. Use a high-powered blender and you will have a healthy energy boost/meal replacement. That's another good thing about smoothies, if you are trying to lose a couple of pounds, a smoothie is a great healthy form of meal replacement.

Vegetable juices are also good as energy boosters. Fresh vegetable juices are the best, but frozen juices are good too. Vegetable juices, as well as smoothies, can be used as meal replacements for people on the go.

So you don't have the time to make either of these? Check out your local juice bar, but ask for a list of ingredients first. Believe it or not Cape does have a juice bar! Here is one of my favorite recipes to get you juiced:

8 ounces whole apple juice (preferably organic)

4 ounces frozen fruit of your choice (mangos are my favorite)

energy powder (optional)

Blend in a high-speed blender until smooth and enjoy!!!! For all you chocolate lovers out there, you can still make a healthy smoothie with fruit. Just use a little bit of chocolate or carob powder. Then add one or two bananas and some soy, rice or regular milk.

So when trekking the hills at Southeast, going to work, or just when you need a kick in your step, consider a smoothie or a veggie juice in place of that 500-calorie burger.