When you’re getting orthodontic treatment, your dentist will probably ask you to have only braces friendly liquids for the first three hours after a new bracket is placed. Also you might be unable to eat your favourite foods or maintain a normal diet for a few days after each adjustment, when there’s some discomfort or soreness while biting or chewing.
In fact, it’s best to completely avoid any hard, sticky or sugary foods when you’re eating with braces. So, what’s your best option? Smoothies, of course!
Whip up one of these easy smoothie recipes when you want a delicious low-sugar snack or a nutritious meal replacement option. Here are 5 great braces friendly smoothie recipes that are perfect for this time in your journey to a straight smile!
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Banana, Oats and Honey Smoothie
This braces friendly smoothie recipe packs a serious dose of nutrition and dietary fibre with a flavour boost and packed with a protein kick without extra calories. You can also replace the banana with peaches, mangoes, blackberries or blueberries.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 almond cup milk
- ¼ cup instant oats
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1-2 teaspoons honey
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Layer all the ingredients in a blender and process till smooth.
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Greek Yogurt and Berry Smoothie
Unsweetened Greek yogurt is rich in dietary protein and probiotic bacteria. It’s easier to digest than regular yogurt, and ideal for people with mild lactose intolerance. Its tangy flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of berries in this rich, delicious smoothie.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 1 cup berries of choice
- ½ cup coconut water
- 5-6 sprigs on fresh mint
- 3 dates
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Layer all the ingredients in a blender and process till smooth.
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Tropical Green Delight Smoothie
This is another braces friendly smoothie recipe that is packed with the nutritional goodness of green leaves, without the sharp flavor. Use fresh or frozen fruit and add a chopped banana for creamier texture. You can also substitute coconut milk with almond milk, low-fat milk or coconut water.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup frozen pineapple
- ½ cup frozen mango
- 1 cup kale
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Process spinach and coconut milk in a blender for 2-3 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients and process till smooth.
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Banana and Nut Butter Smoothie
Combining Greek yogurt, banana and nut butters gives you a rich and indulgent smoothie packed with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and Omega-3 fatty acids. If you love almond, hazelnut or peanut butter, this braces friendly recipe is perfect for you!
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 frozen banana
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 3 dates
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Layer all the ingredients in a blender and process till smooth.
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Creamy Berry Smoothie
This festive smoothie can be made with cranberries, blueberries, blackberries or raspberries, but avoid strawberries (their seeds can get stuck in braces). Vanilla and pineapple add extra flavor, while oats and bananas keep you full for longer.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries
- 1 cup frozen pineapple
- 1 frozen banana
- ¼ cup oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 cup coconut milk
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Layer all the ingredients in a blender and process till smooth.
The perfect braces friendly solution
If you’re on the hunt for braces friendly food, smoothies offer the perfect solution. The recipes above give you serious nutrition and flavour, help you maintain healthy teeth and gums, and there’s no chewing or biting involved!