We call this the Monster Smoothie in our house and my kids (2 out of 3) can't get enough. Its packed full of healthy, bioavailable (usable) glucose and fructose to get you going. It also packs a secret protein and antioxidant punch from the kale. Your kids won't even know they are eating a vegetable. Not just any vegetable, a SUPER FOOD.
I'm usually not a huge fan of hiding veggies from my kids but sometimes I need the easy win. I want my kids to know the difference between good food and not-so-healthy foods and how they make them feel. My oldest is extremely sensitive to refined sugar and at 5 years old, knows this about himself. I wish I would have had this awareness at a younger age.
I ALSO understand the need to get something nutritious in your kids' mouths at all costs. Shed the mom-guilt on this one and hope it cancels out all the chicken nuggets.
Ingredients:
2 bananas
6 dates
1 handful of fresh kale
1 cup of frozen mango
1 cup of frozen pineapple
1 cup of orange juice
1 cup of water
Combine all ingredients in a blender and process on high until smooth. Serve immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.