The hidden dangerS: We are completely on board with expediting the smoothie-making process, but not if it comes at a health cost. Since smoothies have become increasingly popular, more companies are jumping into the game with processed, refined ready-made packets of ingredients – instead of the nutrient-dense, whole-foods based alternatives. Many of these instant smoothie packets contain natural and artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners, refined white sugar and corn syrup.

Why you should avoid it: We always abide by the rule that if you cannot pronounce it or envision it in its natural state, don’t eat or drink it. With that in mind, these instant packets are not made for consumption. The toxic ingredients found in instant packets do a one-two punch on your health. For one, “natural and artificial flavors” can be a hidden name for MSG – the neurotoxin known to cause brain damage to varying degrees. Artificial sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame and acesulfame potassium cause abdominal and joint pain, weight gain, migraines and changes in vision. As for white sugar and corn syrup? These  ingredients can be directly linked to diabetes, metabolic and heart disease and obesity. Surely not what you had in mind when drinking a smoothie, huh?

Here’s what to do: Make your own! Believe us, making a smoothie can be easier than you think. Simply start with a base of filtered water, nut milk or coconut water. Then add a thickening agent such as a frozen banana, a cup full of berries or an avocado. Next up, throw in greens such as kale or spinach, or a greens powder. Then top it off with a protein powder (here are a few of our top choices), and a natural sweetener like raw honey, maple syrup or dates. From there, you can add any number of superfood powders to customize it to your taste and nutritional needs. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to whip them up in less than ten minutes, especially with Pressed Juicery’s new book, Juice, as a guide!