Best Low-Calorie Smoothies

Smoothies are fast to make and easy to take on the go, making them an excellent breakfast option or afternoon pick-me-up. But the smoothies that you buy at the juice shop are usually packed with unwanted (and unnecessary) added sugar and calories, to the tune of more than 400 calories in a 20-ounce serving.

By contrast, these homemade smoothie concoctions have less than 250 calories per 12-ounce serving, and they're little vitamin and mineral bombs that provide you with essential nutrients for optimum health.

Antioxidant Punch: Blueberry Beet Smoothie (183 Calories)

Blueberries are a superfood that's packed full of antioxidants, which help prevent damage to cells and DNA by free radicals. In fact, blueberries deliver more antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable, and they also contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. The beets in this smoothie also provide antioxidants as well as fiber and Vitamin C.

Blend until smooth:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• ⅓ cup cooked and sliced beets
• ¼ cup nonfat yogurt
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 1 tsp honey

Full of Fiber: Grapefruit-Pineapple-Strawberry Smoothie (228 Calories)

Fiber is essential for good digestive health and for preventing disease. This smoothie contains three fruits that are particularly high in fiber. Grapefruit are also an excellent source of Vitamin C, lycopene, and choline for optimum heart health, while strawberries pack in the Vitamin C and other powerful antioxidants. Pineapples help fight inflammation and certain cancers.

Blend until smooth:

• Pink grapefruit, peeled, seeded, and chunked
• ½ cup canned or fresh crushed pineapple
• ½ cup fresh or frozen strawberries
• ½ cup nonfat yogurt

Hydrating Coconut Orange Creamsicle (189 Calories)

The coconut water in this smoothie provides you with five essential electrolytes for optimum hydration, and it's rich in fiber to make you feel fuller longer. Mangoes give you an immunity-boosting dose of antioxidant Vitamins A and C as well as a fair share of B vitamins to improve hormone function and defend against heart disease.

Blend until smooth:

• ½ cup pure coconut water with no additives
• ½ cup fresh or frozen mango chunks
• ½ cup nonfat yogurt
• 1½ tsp honey
• 2 cups ice