The word ‘smoothie’ sounds healthy doesn’t it? Keep reading to get the scoop on McDonald’s real fruit smoothies. Be prepared to take a big ‘gulp’ when you see it undressed.
When I make a nutrient dense smoothie for breakfast I make sure to throw in high quality ingredients to start my day off right.
The best ingredients for smoothies:
Things like frozen fruit for antioxidants and fiber
Frozen blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, grapes and acai are just some of the many kinds of fruits that are loaded with antioxidants. If you don’t know what antioxidants are, you’ll want to check out this article that undresses them down to the nitty-gritty, Click here.
Fruits are also a great source of fiber! Fruits provide so many great things, and they add a luscious flavor to your day.
High quality whey protein to feed my muscles
Adding a high quality protein to your smoothie helps to slow down the absorption of the natural sugars from the fruit so that insulin levels don’t spike out of control, leaving you in a slump later in the day.
Having a full spectrum of amino acids is great food for muscles and brain function.
There are also many high quality vegan proteins on the market for those looking for a vegan or vegetarian source. Be sure that there is a complete spectrum of essential amino acids to keep your body healthy, happy and strong.
Healthy fats like flax or chia seeds for brain function and to reduce inflammation
We know all about healthy fats from previous posts on The Naked Label blog by holistic nutritionists. If you haven’t read them, be sure to get the 411 now:
Cha-Cha-Cha – Chia! Find out why Chia is a superfood you NEED in your diet!
Finally some good news about fat! Learn why fat doesn’t make us fat.
Avocados: 10 things you need to know before eating your next avocado
Coconut oil deserves a secure home in your kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. This is juicy!
So, when we take a look at the smoothie’s offered at McDonalds, here’s what’s wrong with them in my opinion:
The Lowdown on McDee’s Smoothies
Cornstarch:
They add cornstarch to thicken the smoothie, this is an ingredient that is certainly not needed if you are using real frozen fruit.
Dimethyl what?!
There is an ingredient listed called ‘dimethylpolysiloxane’. This is an ingredient commonly used in silicones, adhesives, and caulking. Not an ingredient that I would ever recommend ingesting.
Sugar content:
The large blueberry pomegranate smoothie contains a whopping 70g of sugar! That much sugar will disrupt your blood glucose levels.
Very little protein:
Last but not least, these “real fruit smoothies” only contain on average 4g of protein, which is just not enough to counter the excessive sugar.
Although the word ‘real fruit smoothie’ sounds healthy, it’s important to take a look at all the ingredients when undressing any kind of product. In this case, make your own smoothie using the guidelines above to create the best healthy smoothie for your body. They’re super easy to make and your body will love you for it.
This article was written by Dr. Seth Yates, BSc, ND. At The Naked Label we love to follow Dr. Yates. We also love to join in for a workout on his in-depth health and fitness website, www.YIPFit.com. Check it out, and join in on the fun!
Have you tried McDonald’s Fruit Smoothies? Have you seen the commercials? What are your thoughts? Leave us a comment below. Be sure to use the social media links below to share this with friends and family and let them know how McDee’s Smoothies look undressed. Then, try hosting your own smoothie party. Get creative and have fun!
McDonald’s Real Fruit Smoothies Photos by: theimpulsivebuy.
