Smoothies: A Healthy Breakfast Idea (from SouthBeachDiet.com)

Tired of eggs and oatmeal for breakfast? Take a break from traditional morning meals and prepare a healthy, delicious smoothie. A smoothie is a blended beverage that is typically made with milk and/or yogurt and flavorings — and also fruit (if you’re on Phase 2 of the South Beach Diet). Smoothies are so easy to prepare they’re a great option if you’re pressed for time.
How to Prepare a Smoothie at Home
When preparing a smoothie at home, use a food processor or blender, which will give this tasty beverage a thick, milkshake-like consistency. There are a variety of ingredients you can use in your smoothie, depending on the Phase of the diet you’re on. Here are some basic guidelines:
If you’re on Phase 1, you can enjoy …

• Fat-free (skim) or 1% milk
• Nonfat or low-fat plain yogurt, including nonfat (0%) Greek yogurt
• Natural peanut butter (choose a brand with no more than 1 g of sugar per serving)
• Silken tofu
• Nuts or flaxseed
• Sugar-free chocolate syrup
• No-sugar-added chocolate powder
• Vanilla or almond extract
• Granular sugar substitute

If you’re on Phase 2 or 3, you can enjoy …
All of the above, plus:

• Fresh or frozen fruit, such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, peaches, and bananas

How to Choose a Healthy Store-Bought Smoothie
While it’s best to prepare your smoothies at home (because you know they’ll contain only the healthiest ingredients), you can purchase smoothies in chain stores or grocery stores too, as long as you check the list of ingredients first. Be aware that some smoothie brands contain canned fruit with added sugars, sugary syrups, full-fat yogurt, whole milk, and/or ice cream, which may derail your weight-loss efforts.
Whether you prepare a smoothie at home or buy one, stick to a serving of 8 ounces — anything larger can affect your blood sugar and create cravings.