The Green Smoothie Cleanse is a popular detox and weight loss program that involves replacing meals with green smoothies. Many people wonder if they can have snacks while on the cleanse, or if they are limited to just smoothies.
The good news is that the Green Smoothie Cleanse does allow for snacks! However, only certain foods are permitted as snacks during the cleanse. Choosing compliant snacks is important so that you don’t unintentionally break the cleanse rules and hinder your progress.
Fruit
Fruit makes a great snack during the Green Smoothie Cleanse. Fruits are full of nutrients and natural sugars that can help curb cravings. Some excellent fruit choices include:
Berries
Berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are packed with antioxidants and fiber. They make a sweet treat and are easy to take on-the-go.
Apples
Apples are crunchy, refreshing and portable. Enjoy them on their own or try slicing and dipping them in nut butter.
Bananas
Bananas are filling and convenient to eat anytime. Opt for yellow bananas rather than green ones since they contain more natural sugars.
Grapes
Both red and green grapes make a great snack. Grapes are small and easy to pop in your mouth when a craving strikes.
Melons
Melons like cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon have high water content to keep you hydrated. Melon slices or balls make tasty bite-sized snacks.
Oranges
Oranges deliver a burst of refreshing citrus flavor. Peel and enjoy them whole or separate into segments.
Vegetables
In addition to fruit, vegetables make healthy and satisfying snacks during the Green Smoothie Cleanse. Some crunchy vegetable options include:
Carrots
Baby carrots are a go-to for their portability and crunch. Enjoy them raw or try roasting them for a deeper flavor.
Celery
Celery sticks provide satisfying crunch. Top them with nut butter or homemade hummus for extra protein.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers have high water content to keep you hydrated. Slice or enjoy mini cucumbers whole.
Bell Peppers
Red, yellow or orange bell peppers are tasty and crisp. Slice them up or pack mini peppers to munch on.
Snap Peas
Sugar snap peas are sweet and crunchy. The whole pods are edible for easy snacking.
Jicama
Jicama is a fiber-filled root vegetable that makes a healthy alternative to chips. Peel and slice it into sticks.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds make very nutritious snacks on the Green Smoothie Cleanse. They provide protein, healthy fats and important vitamins and minerals. Some of the best options include:
Almonds
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, magnesium and fiber. Enjoy a handful raw or try roasted or salted varieties.
Cashews
Cashews offer a creamy, nutty crunch. Sprinkle them on smoothies or have a small portion as a snack.
Pistachios
Pistachios have protein, fiber and heart-healthy fats. Their shells encourage mindful snacking too.
Walnuts
Walnuts contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Add them to smoothies or snack on a few halves.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds provide magnesium, iron and zinc. Toss a tablespoon or two in smoothies or enjoy them on their own.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds have vitamin E, selenium and protein. Grab a small handful for a nutritious snack.
Dairy and Non-Dairy Alternatives
In moderation, dairy and non-dairy products can be included as snacks during the Green Smoothie Cleanse. Some options include:
Plain Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt provides protein, calcium and probiotics. Choose unsweetened, plain varieties.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese offers a good protein boost. Opt for low or no sodium varieties.
Nut Butter
A tablespoon of almond, peanut or cashew butter makes a protein-packed snack.
Hummus
Chickpea-based hummus provides fiber, protein and healthy fat. Dip veggies or spread on celery.
Edamame
Steamed and lightly salted edamame are an easy protein source. Keep a stash in your fridge or freezer.
Non-Dairy Milk
Nut milks like almond, coconut and oat milk are permitted. Have a small glass between smoothies.
Other Snack Ideas
Here are a few other compliant snack ideas to enjoy during the Green Smoothie Cleanse:
Dates
Fresh dates can help satisfy a sweet tooth. Pitted Medjool dates are soft and caramel-like.
Dried Fruit
Unsweetened dried apricots, cherries, cranberries, mango and pineapple make portable snacks.
Unsweetened Coconut
Dried, unsweetened coconut provides healthy fats. Sprinkle it on smoothies too.
Cacao Nibs
These raw cacao bits offer antioxidants and minerals. Use sparingly as they are high in calories.
Green Tea
Sipping on green tea provides antioxidants and satisfaction between smoothies.
Herbal Tea
Mint, chamomile and other herbal teas can help with cravings. Enjoy them chilled or hot.
Coffee Alternatives
Drinks made from chicory root, dandelion and other coffee alternatives provide comfort.
Sparkling Water
For some fizz, mineral waters like Perrier are permitted. Opt for unflavored varieties.
Foods to Avoid as Snacks
To get the most from the Green Smoothie Cleanse it’s important to avoid certain foods. Steer clear of these items for snacking:
Processed Snack Foods
Avoid chips, pretzels, crackers, granola bars, dried fruit with added sugar, trail mix with chocolate, etc.
Sweets
Do not snack on cookies, cakes, candy, ice cream, chocolate, or other sweets.
Baked Goods
Bread, bagels, muffins, and other baked goods are off limits during the cleanse.
Dairy
Avoid most dairy products besides small portions of plain yogurt, cottage cheese, or nut milk.
Meat and Eggs
Do not snack on meat, fish, poultry, eggs, jerky or deli meats during the cleanse.
Oils and Sauces
Avoid snacking on dishes containing oils, margarine, mayonnaise, salad dressings, soy sauce, etc.
Caffeine and Alcohol
Beverages containing coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks and alcohol are not permitted.
Sample Snack Schedule
Planning ahead can help ensure you have compliant snacks readily available during the cleanse. Here is an example snack schedule:
| Time | Snack |
|---|---|
| Mid-morning | 1 apple with 1 tablespoon almond butter |
| Mid-afternoon | 1 cup grapes and 10 raw almonds |
| Late afternoon | Bell pepper sticks with hummus |
| After dinner | 1 cup raspberries and 1 ounce dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) |
Tips for Snack Success
Follow these tips to choose satisfying snacks and avoid pitfalls during the Green Smoothie Cleanse:
- Read labels and avoid packaged snacks with added sugars or artificial ingredients.
- Measure nut and seed portions to avoid overdoing high-calorie options.
- Mix up your snacks for more variety.
- Prepare snacks ahead of time and portion them out.
- Drink water before and after snacking to prevent overeating.
- If cravings strike, distract yourself with a short walk or phone call to a friend.
- If needed, add more frequent smaller snacks to keep blood sugar stable.
The Bottom Line
Following the Green Smoothie Cleanse does not mean giving up snacking. Plenty of whole food options like fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds and dairy fit into the cleanse guidelines. Having the right snacks on hand can help you feel satisfied, achieve your health goals and complete the detox smoothly. With a little planning, you can enjoy tasty snacks that align with the cleanse and still reach your weight loss, detox and health goals.
