Berry & Banana Oat Smoothie

You may remember some time last year I spoke of my naughty but nice smoothie option, when in the mood for a treat. I've also spoken of my love for green smoothies (over the period of five days or a week, those smoothies really help you get back on track and make you feel so energized!) but I thought I'd mention another - very popular for breakfasts or lunches when you need to be on the go; the Berry & Banana Oat Smoothie...

It's sweet and nutritious, keeps you feeling full and is a nice way to get in some of your five a day too.

You will need;

1 cup of mixed berries - these can be frozen or fresh but make sure if your berries are frozen there are no added nasties like salt and sugar. Seriously, you won't need 'em.

1 Banana. 

Half cup of oats. 

Half pint of Soy milk. Go for the nutty (hazelnut and almond,) varieties if you like.

All you need to do is cut up the banana, add it all into a blender and blend that bad boy together. 

So let's get down to the nutritional facts, right? Bananas are great for potassium which aids with blood pressure, they also contain fructooligosaccharide which is a prebiotic which encourages the probiotics (friendly bacteria) and as it ferments (lovely,) in the digestive tract - it helps the body absorb more calcium.

Berries are packed with antioxidants (especially great for this time of year,) boost immunity and are a great source of fiber. They also contain a great amount of vitamin c.

Oats are great for stabilizing blood sugars, enhance immune response to infection, aid in lowering cholesterol, prevent heart failure and aid in fighting depression. 

Soy/Soya milk is hugely beneficial as it has essential fatty acids (and doesn't contain saturated fats, in comparison to standard dairy milk,) and is a good source for fiber - it's great for healthy weight loss as it's naturally low in fat and thanks to the fiber keeps you feeling full for longer...

So whether you're on a super health kick or not this year; you just have to try out this smoothie! It tastes amazing and is good for you. 

Also; if you have a small amount left in the blender? Pour it over natural yogurt for dessert. Awesome.