The Clear Skin Smoothie
This healthy smoothie recipe, created by Koff, uses a protein powder made from hemp seeds, which is a balanced source of skin-boosting omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The dandelion greens are great for the liver, helping to detox the body and skin; the avocado and raw cacao powder contain a powerful mix of antioxidants, which help clear the complexion and get skin glowing; and the coconut water is loaded with potassium, which helps skin cells get the water they need to stay (and look) hydrated.
Blend
1 scoop of hemp protein (Koff likes Manitoba Harvest Hemp Pro 70)
1/2 cup organic blueberries
1/2 bunch dandelion greens (no stems)
11 ounces coconut water
1/4 avocado
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
Photo 3/16
Banana Almond Flax Smoothie
This healthy smoothie from Kelly Boyer, owner and Executive Chef of Paleta.com, is full of skin-loving plant-based proteins, potassium, calcium, fiber, and omega-3s. The essential fatty acids in the flaxseed oil have anti-inflammatory benefits, which is especially helpful for red, irritated, and puffy skin, says Koff.
Blend
1 tablespoon flaxseed oil
2 tablespoons raw almond butter
1 small banana
1/2 cup organic apple juice
1 cup ice cubes
Photo 4/16
Mango Yogurt Smoothie
Boyer also created this healthy smoothie and says the frozen mango gives it its sweetness and smooth texture and adds skin-boosting vitamins B6, C and E. Plus, the omega-3s in the fish oil help to regulate oil production, says Koff, which boosts hydration, helps prevent acne, and staves off wrinkles.
Blend
1 tbsp fish oil
1/2 cup plain, low-fat, organic yogurt
1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup ice cubes
1 fresh mint leaf (optional)
Photo 5/16
Very Berry Detox Smoothie
The powerful blend of antioxidants in this healthy smoothie (also created by Boyer) helps cleanse your liver, which processes the toxins that could be contributing to your skin woes, says Koff. Bonus: It's a great way to sneak in some bitter-tasting greens, because the berry flavor overpowers the taste of the veggies.
Blend
1 tablespoon fish oil
1/4 cup frozen strawberries
1/4 cup frozen blueberries
1/4 cup frozen raspberries
1/4 cup frozen banana
1/4 cup chopped kale leaves
1 cup filtered water
Photo 6/16
Coconut-Pear Dream Smoothie
Hemp milk is a great alternative to dairy, says Koff, as dairy products can contribute to skin irritation in some people. This easy, tasty smoothie recipe was created by Manitoba Harvest, a hemp foods company. But you can use any non-dairy milk alternative.
Blend
1/2 cup hemp milk
1/2 cup coconut milk or coconut water
1 to 2 tablespoons vanilla protein powder (preferably Manitoba Harvest Organic Vanilla)
1 pear, peeled and cored
Handful of spinach or kale
A splash of coconut extract (for more coconut flavor).
1 cup ice
Sick of hearing what you can't drink if you want perfect skin?
Coffee. Booze. Soda. Even fruit juice is a no-no. What's a thirsty gal to do? The answer: Healthy smoothies.
You can sip your way to a clear complexion (and bonus -- a slimmer waistline) with delicious and healthy smoothies that are good for your skin.
Ashley Koff, R.D., a celebrity dietitian and author of "Mom Energy," says every woman can benefit from firing up the ol' blender for healthy smoothie recipes. "Smoothies are a great way to get all of the nutrients you need for beautiful skin in just one drink," says Koff. "Even better, since they're so easy to make and take with you, they can replace the junky, highly-processed fast food that's so bad for your skin."
That's why we asked Koff and six other experts to create 15 healthy smoothie recipes that would satisfy our blend ambition.
The nutritious combinations of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and good-for-you fats in these healthy smoothies are especially good for your skin, says Koff. "They are packed with essential fatty acids, which calm puffiness and redness. They're loaded with antioxidants, which keep wrinkles and sagging to a minimum. And many of the ingredients here are also alkalizing, which helps the body release skin-irritating toxins."
Are you frantically dusting off your blender yet? Yeah, us too. Discover all the best healthy smoothie recipes here.
