When it comes to packing nutrients into a delicious smoothie, you have two main paths - focusing the ingredients on micronutrients or macronutrients. But what's the difference, and which type of smoothie is right for you? Let's break it down.

‍Micronutrient-Packed Smoothies

Micronutrients refer to the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that provide many vital nutrients but don't directly contribute calories. Smoothies loaded with micronutrient-rich ingredients include:

• Leafy greens like spinach, kale, chard

• Fruits like berries, citrus, pineapple 

• Veggies like carrots, beets, cauliflower

• Herbs and spices like ginger, turmeric, cinnamon

• Nutrient boosters like spirulina, chlorella, chia seeds

‍Benefits of Micronutrient Smoothies:

• Promote overall health with vitamins, minerals & antioxidants

• Support detoxification and glowing skin

• May reduce inflammation and disease risk

• Provide a nutrient boost for active individuals  

‍When to Have Them:

Micronutrient smoothies are ideal for a nutritious meal replacement or snack. They make a great post-workout replenisher. They also work well as part of a cleanse or reset.

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‍Macronutrient-Focused Smoothies  

Macronutrients are the main energy sources - protein, carbs, and fats. Smoothies emphasizing these macros tend to include ingredients like:

• Protein sources like protein powder, Greek yogurt, nut butters

• Healthy fats from avocado, nut/seed butters, nut milks

• Complex carbs from oats, sweet potatoes, fruits

• Fiber-rich ingredients like chia, flax, greens

‍Benefits of Macronutrient Smoothies:

• Promote muscle growth and recovery

• Provide lasting energy and satiety

• Support weight management goals

• Boost fiber intake for better digestion

‍When to Have Them:

Macronutrient smoothies work well as a hearty meal replacement or recovery drink after an intense workout. They're also ideal for athletes looking to meet specific nutrition needs.

‍The Best of Both Worlds

Of course, many smoothies contain a mix of both micronutrients and macronutrients. A green smoothie with greens, berries, avocado and protein powder delivers vitamins, minerals, fiber, healthy fats, and protein. Mixing and matching ingredients allow you to create endlessly nourishing combos. 

No matter which way you blend it, smoothies make it easy to reach your nutrition goals in a convenient, delicious way. Whether you're prioritizing specific micros or macros, having the right smoothie recipes on hand sets you up for success!

Go to the FASTer Way website to join our next round so you can burn fat and build muscle for a fitness transformation that you can follow as a true lifestyle. 

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RECIPE

Green Tropical Ginger Detox Smoothie

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INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup Green Tea (chilled)
• 1 cup Cilantro
• 1 cup Kale (67 grams)
• 1 Cucumber (300 grams)
• 1 cup Frozen Pineapple (140 grams)
• 1 Lemon
• ½ Avocado (75 grams, frozen)
• 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger
• 1 scoop FASTer Way Vanilla Protein Powder

INSTRUCTIONS

• Prep note: Cut avocado into cubes and freeze overnight. You can also substitute with 1/2 cup store bought frozen avocado chunks. Brew and chill the green tea. Remove kale from stems and chop. Juice the lemon. Grate the ginger.
• Place all ingredients in a blender and blend!
• Blend until smooth. Add chilled tea as needed to reach desired consistency. Enjoy immediately.

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