Colorful Sips
Santosh Jha
| 23-08-2024
· Food Team
Hey, there, fellow Lykkers! Ever found yourself reaching for a vibrant smoothie or juice and wondering why is it so good and has such vibrant colors? Well, you're in the right place!
Today, we're diving into the world of colorful drinks made from fruits and veggies. These beverages are not only delicious but also bursting with nutrients that do wonders for your body, try to believe it. Let's explore three delicious recipes that are as beautiful as they are beneficial!

1. Golden Glow - Sunshine Smoothie

This bright yellow smoothie is like a burst of sunshine in a glass with only 250 kcal! Perfect for a morning pick-me-up, it's packed with tropical flavors and a punch of vitamins. In the morning the natural sugars from the fruits will give you a quick energy boost, while the spinach and coconut water provide hydration and essential nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
- 1 banana
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for extra anti-inflammatory benefits)
- A handful of spinach (to sneak in some greens without altering the taste)
- Ice cubes
Nutritional Benefits:
- Mango: Rich in vitamins A and C, great for skin and immune health.
- Banana: High in potassium, perfect for heart health and energy.
- Turmeric: An anti-inflammatory powerhouse.

2. Berry Blush - Purple Antioxidant Smoothie

For a little bit fewer calories (only 180 kcal) try this beautiful purple drink, a berry lover's dream and a powerhouse of antioxidants. It's perfect for a refreshing afternoon treat and a post-workout recovery drink. The protein from the Greek yogurt helps with muscle recovery, while the antioxidants combat oxidative stress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, blackberries, strawberries)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Ice cubes
Nutritional Benefits:
- Mixed Berries: Loaded with antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and support skin health.
- Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics, promoting gut health.
- Chia Seeds: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein.

3. Green Machine - Refreshing Green Juice

This vibrant green juice is a nutrient-dense drink, with just 100kcal, that's perfect for detoxifying and refreshing your body. This juice is perfect in the morning or as a refreshing afternoon drink as the hydration from the cucumber and the detoxifying properties of lemon and ginger make it a great choice for starting your day or a midday reset.
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber
- 1 green apple
- 1 cup kale or spinach
- 1/2 lemon (juice)
- 1-inch ginger (optional, for a kick)
- 1 cup water or coconut water
- Ice cubes
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories, helps in detoxification.
- Green Apple: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, good for digestion and immunity.
- Kale/Spinach: High in vitamins A, C, K, and iron, supports overall health.

Why These Drinks Are Healthy

These colorful drinks are not just pretty to look at—they're packed with a variety of nutrients essential for good health. The different colors in fruits and vegetables represent different types of phytonutrients, each offering unique benefits. For example:
- Yellow/Orange fruits like mango and pineapple are rich in beta-carotene, supporting eye health and immune function.
- Purple foods like berries are high in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
- Green veggies are rich in chlorophyll and are great for detoxifying the body and providing a host of vitamins and minerals.
Which color do you choose today?