13 Sugar-Free Ways to Add Major Flavor to Your Green Smoothie

Smoothies are an awesome way to eat healthily while still enjoying a delicious treat. Instead of buying sugar-filled pre-made smoothies, you can ensure that you'll be getting the same sweet taste with none of the negative sugary side effects by making your own smoothies with these naturally sweet ingredients!

Frozen Banana

Bananas are high in potassium, filling and naturally sweet. They can be frozen whole, with their peels still on, and added to your smoothie directly from the freezer. Use one banana per serving.

Pure Flavor Extracts

A teaspoon of flavor extract can completely change the flavor of a smoothie into something new. Some popular ones include vanilla, almond and maple. These are also great to add extra flavor when using some of the other additions on the list.

Coconut Milk

Adding a cup of coconut milk to a green smoothie does not just increase its health benefits, it also naturally adds a sweet, creamy flavor.

Pumpkin or Sweet Potatoes

Adding some cooked pumpkin or sweet potatoes makes a healthy, tasty fall treat. Try adding one quarter to one third cup along with a dash of nutmeg.

Stevia

If you want just a little extra sweetness, a few packets of stevia will do the trick. Unlike most sugar-free sweeteners, stevia is derived from a plant, not made in a laboratory.

Cinnamon

A dash of cinnamon doesn't just add a new flavor, it also contains anti-inflammatory properties and has been said to help a sluggish metabolism. It's also a great compliment to some of the other additions.

Berries

Blueberries are tart, sweet, and high in antioxidants. They can be added fresh or frozen. Less than a quarter cup of blueberries, blackberries, strawberries or raspberries is all it takes to add major refreshment and flavor.

Grated Carrots

Try a little grated carrot with some cinnamon for a "carrot cake" flavored green smoothie.

Apples

Apples are full of good nutrients and very sweet. They can be added frozen or fresh. The peels contain vitamins and are fine to keep on when adding apples, but be sure to remove the core and the seeds.

Frozen Citrus Fruit

Try adding some frozen citrus fruit for a tropical, green, virgin margarita. Pineapples and oranges are two common favorites.

Mango

Fresh mango gives a tropical twist to a green smoothie with a punch of vitamin C.

Unsweetened Apple Cider

Just a quarter cup or less of organic, unsweetened apple cider can be delicious. It contains both the flavor from the apples and the spices. However, apple cider is highly concentrated, so it's also high in sugar. It's best to use this occasionally as a treat.

Seedless Green Grapes

Freeze some green grapes to add to a smoothie. 12 grapes are a serving size, and enough to add some sweet refreshment.