Apple Pie in the Sky Smoothie!

Welcome to the “FIBERIFFIC” series! The next 3 recipes (this current week plus the next two weeks) are dedicated to our fabulous friend, FIBER! Aside from the many health benefits fiber provides, it leaves us feeling less hungry and can actually burn calories just by the digestive process alone! Sounds good now, huh? Let’s check this fiber thing out!

Fiber is often mentioned as an essential ingredient in any weight-loss or well-being plan. More than likely you have seen it a lot lately: On nutrition labels, advertisements, food packages, etc., but what is it and, more importantly, why should I care? Dietary fiber comes from the portion of plants that is not digested by enzymes in the intestinal tract. It is essential for colon health and regularity, aids in decreasing blood cholesterol levels, controlling blood sugar levels, and has also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Aside from these crucial health benefits, fiber has huge perks for those looking to lose weight or stay full while dieting. Fiber itself has NO calories, yet it provides a “full” feeling because of its water absorbing ability. In addition, the digestive process of fiber itself requires calories, thereby creating a natural calorie deficit through its consumption. Foods high in fiber often require more chewing, making it difficult to consume a large number of total calories in a short period of time with respect to meals without fiber.

Am I winning you over? With all the benefits that fiber provides, what better time to start incorporating into your diet than now! So let’s get to it, my fiber-savvy friend. It's all here for you and ready to go. Each Alli’s Slim Pickins recipe provides detailed ingredients, nutritional information (inc. fiber count), and step-by-step instructions on how to prepare each mouth-watering meal! Stop those hunger pangs once and for all!

“APPLE PIE in the sky SMOOTHIE”

Ingredients:
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 cup raw apple, chopped
2 tsp walnuts
2 TB ground flaxseed
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 cup cold water
5 large ice cubes

How to Prepare:
(This one is easy!)
1. Put ALL ingredients in a blender and blend/whip (high speed) until all ice is crushed and your smoothie is, well….smooth!).
2. Pour in a large glass, and as always…Enjoy!!…or else

NUTRITION DATA
Per serving (Serves 1): 299 calories, 23 grams protein, 23 grams carbohydrates, 12.5 grams fat, 8 g fiber!

Editor’s Note: If you have any specific requests or would like to share your feedback on the above recipes, please e-mail Allison Frahn at AliFrahn@yahoo.com.

Check out more of Alli’s recipes at: www.AllisonFrahn.com and www.AllisSlimPickins.com

STAY TUNED FOR MORE “FIBERIFFIC” RECIPES NEXT WEEK!