Smoothies are the epitome of the health world—right?
Fitness gurus endorse juice and smoothie cleanses on social media, showing their audiences how blended fruits and protein can become a meal substitute and healthy addition to their diets.
If you look at the nutritional facts for places like Jamba Juice and Tropical Smoothie, however, you’ll find that the words “healthy” or “organic” can be deceiving.
A personal favorite, Jamba Juice’s Aloha Pineapple Smoothie, has 90 grams of sugar per 24 ounces (that’s a medium on their menu). Another sweet treat, their Peanut Butter Moo’d Smoothie, has 109 grams of sugar and 490 milligrams of sodium—the sodium equivalent of half a serving of Top Ramen.
Tropical Smoothie’s 24-ounce servings are made with added turbinado sugar. However, you can request a substitute. For example, the sugar difference in an Avocolado turns from 87 grams with Turbinado sugar to 43 when using Splenda. Or, another option: Cut the sugar completely.
The best way to combat excessive sugar in your smoothies is to be ingredient-conscious. Read your labels and make informed choices on the sugars that go in your body, even when making these great drinks at home.
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