You guys know I love my sweet, fruity smoothies. Fruit is a pretty big part of my diet, and since I feel great eating this way, I don’t plan to cut it out anytime soon. However, when I came across a blog post from Ricki Heller about low natural sugar, fruit free smoothies, I was intrigued.

Ricki Heller is a holistic health expert and cookbook author who specializes in healthy eating and anti-candida diets. Thankfully, I’ve not had to battle this condition, but I know it is something many people struggle with. Some find relief after eliminating, at least initially, all natural and added sugars. While I feel strongly that fruit is an important part of a whole food plant based diet and an amazing source of beautifying nutrients for most healthy individuals, some (such as those with diabetes and candida) may choose to limit their intake of higher sugar fruit, if only temporarily.

Always up for a challenge, I set out to create a lower sugar smoothie that you won’t want to spit out or feed to the garbage disposal. I’m actually hooked on this smoothie at the moment! It’s great for those busy mornings that you’re looking for something really easy and quick, but you’re not in the mood for something too sweet and fruity. This smoothie is refreshing and invigorating, thanks to lime juice and fresh mint. A secret veggie ingredient makes up the bulk of the smoothie, without any discernible flavor, while avocado creates a smooth silky texture. I added a tart green apple, for a touch of sweetness without a lot of sugar.

As a reference point, one serving of this smoothie has about 10 grams of sugar, while one of my favorite green smoothie combinations with spinach, banana, pineapple, and mango has over 30 grams of sugar. Once again, I don’t believe this is a big deal for a healthy individual, and I know many people thrive on a high fruit diet, myself included. While this smoothie may seem surprisingly un-sweet at first, especially if you’re used to loading in the fruits, it will grow on you sip by sip! I think you’re going to love this smoothie!

Low Sugar Mojito Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup organic zucchini peeled, chopped, and frozen
• 1 small granny smith apple
• half a small avocado
• juice of 1 large lime
• about 10 fresh mint leaves
• handful of ice cubes

Directions:  Blend all ingredients, until very smooth. Add an extra squeeze of lime juice, if desired.

Want more low sugar smoothie ideas? Check out Ricki’s video here

What do you think of fruit-free or low sugar smoothies? Is it something you would try?? I would love to see your creations! Tag me on Instagram (@feedingyourbeauty) if you give this Mojito smoothie a whirl!