Mango-Pineapple Protein Smoothie

This mango-pineapple protein smoothie is a must-try for kids and adults.  Mangos, the “the king of fruits,” is a member of the drupe family, a type of plant food in which an outer fleshy part surrounds a shell (or pit) with a seed inside.  Olives and dates are also drupes.  Mangos can range in color, shape, and flavor.  Their skin can be green, red, or orange.  The inner flesh of a mango, however, is always golden-yellow with a sweet creamy taste.

Mangos deserve their king status as they contain over 20 vitamins and minerals.  Mangos have also been named the most widely consumed fruit in the world, maybe because they are available all year long.  With this title comes a long list of believed health benefits, from cancer-fighting properties to aid in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.  1 cup of fresh mango contains 100 calories and a whole slew of daily essential vitamins.

A fun-fact about pineapples: this delicious fruit is made up of many individual berries that fuse around a central core. Although their nutritional properties are often overlooked, pineapples contain a high amount of vitamin C and manganese and a lot of dietary fiber which everyone needs more of.  This sweet tropical fruit is also known to contain high amounts of thiamine, which helps with energy.  Some shy away from pineapple a bit due to its sweetness.  But shockingly, one cup of fresh pineapple only contains about 80 calories.

So this mango-pineapple protein smoothie recipe is a nutrient-rich choice.  It is a great option for breakfast when in a hurry, or as a late afternoon snack to help get you through the day.  With protein powder mixed in and such a high vitamin content, this is a great morning smoothie for kids before they head off to school.  This simple blend of delicious tropical fruits will almost make you feel like you are on a white sand beach on a deserted island drinking a daiquiri.  And there is nothing bad about that.