Lose Weight with a Gluten-Free Smoothie

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Lose Weight with a Gluten-Free Smoothie

Jun 03, 2009 | My Recipe Favorites, Weight Loss

Since I have Hyper-Thyroid, I try not to eat gluten. It’s hard because I love cookies – and I’m not too fond of most gluten free varieties. But I find that if I start my day without gluten, not only do I feel better with more energy, but I believe I am on the road to losing some ounces that day. It’s a good way to start the morning.

There are two key ingredients to my smoothies or shakes. The first is ground flax seeds. Flax seeds are one way to get some omega-3 fat in your system. If you’re like me, the fishy tasting capsules are not acceptable. So I get some of my omega-3 and fiber from a daily dose of flax seeds. Do not use flax in more than 2 shakes a day!

The other key ingredient for someone with hyper-thyroid is rice protein powder. When I first went to the health food store, I couldn’t find it. There are so many other types of protein powders – mostly soy. But I don’t do soy. I also have Rosacea and my doctor tells me that soy is a no no for Rosacea. My favorite rice protein powder is NutriBiotic Vegan 80% Rice Protein. It comes in Chocolate and Vanilla. I prefer Chocolate. You only need one heaping tablespoon of it – and you get 12 grams of protein!! One Tablespoon is just 1 point for Weight Watchers.

You’ll also notice a combination flax and borage oil. I only add this during the two weeks or so I am on a detox. It is expensive, and it is an optional ingredient for every day.

SMOOTHIE WITH RICE PROTEIN AND FLAX

6-8 ounces of filtered water
½ to 1 cup fresh or frozen fruit*
2 scoops of rice protein powder (check directions on product for serving size)
1 TB organic combination flax and borage oil (optional)
2 TB ground flax seeds
Ice (optional)
(NOTE: For Weight Watchers, count one smoothie as 2 points.)

*I try to always have some fresh strawberries on hand. I have found that Dole frozen cherries seem to be especially sweet – so I always include about 5 cherries. And, of course, blueberries do you so much good that I include about 10 in each of my shakes.

Some tips on fresh fruit. When I purchase my blueberries fresh, I wash them, pat dry, place in plastic bag, and freeze immediately. For Weight Watchers, you can measure the exact quantity for counting your points. They never spoil on my, and are very refreshing during the day.

Being a Weight Watcher, I seldom use bananas because they just do add weight (but at least it’s not permanent). But frozen bananas really add to the smoothie, especially when it’s hot. Peal the banana, break it in two, place it on a “Press n Seal” was paper and cover it taking out as much air as possible. Place in a baggie and freeze. Now you can cut or tear the portion of the banana you want to use.

In the summer, fresh fruit is a real treat – and makes a definite difference. Freeaing fruit is a terrific way to help your “fresh fruit” stay fresh. Because our systems and our diets are so full of acid, it’s a good idea to avoid citrus for your morning shakes.