8 Nutrient-Rich Smoothies to Supercharge Your Summer

MISSION, KS--(Marketwired - Jul 9, 2015) - (Family Features) As the weather heats up, smoothies are a perfect way to cool down and get a quick, nutrient-rich breakfast or snack on the go. Everyone knows fruits and vegetables are full of important vitamins and minerals, and smoothies are a convenient way to add them to your diet.

Plus, when you make your smoothies with milk, you're not only adding 8 grams of high-quality protein in each 8-ounce glass, you're also adding eight other essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

For additional benefits, consider adding ingredients to your made-with-milk-smoothie like yogurt, whole grains, fresh greens, nuts and more. You can even use frozen fruit instead of ice cubes for more flavorful smoothies. There are almost endless combinations and smoothies to suit every taste, limited only by what you can blend. Get inspired by these eight delicious and refreshing options to help you fuel up and cool down this summer:

1. Power Orange Smoothie
Start your day right with this creamy orange concoction, or pour into popsicle containers and freeze for a dreamsicle-like snack.

2. Protein Power Player Smoothie
With chocolate milk, banana and almonds, this smoothie is like a nutty chocolate-covered banana in a cup.

3. Mango Ginger Smoothie
Oatmeal, milk and almond butter combine with mango, ginger and lime juice for a protein-packed, refreshing and bright smoothie.

4. Super Food Smoothie
Blueberries and milk combine for a smoothie full of antioxidants and nutrients that's delicious any time of day.

5. Protein-Packed Berry Burst Smoothie
This classic strawberry smoothie adds walnuts and oatmeal to milk for additional protein to start your morning right or power through your afternoon.

6. Black Forest Smoothie
This smoothie includes cherries and chocolate for a refreshing, good-for-you take on the classic dessert.

7. Peaches & Cream Smoothie
Reminiscent of the classic Southern dessert, this smoothie is perfect for enjoying on the porch with a book -- or on-the-go for a sweet treat!

8. Creamy Green Goddess Smoothie
Green smoothies aren't just trendy, they're a wonderful way to pack lots of nutrients into your day. This version includes avocado for creamy texture and pineapple to sweeten it up.

For additional recipes, nutrition tips and more, visit MilkLife.com.

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