My kids limit smoothies because of the sugar content of the fruit, but in terms of health benefits, as long as you're putting in the whole of the fruits, it seems to be fine. Here's an article that explains it well.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/463643-is-drinking-a-smoothie-like-eating-solids/

ETA, I think your friend is referring to juicing, which extracts the juice and disgards the fiber. Putting whole fruits and veggies into a smoothie is, essentially, better than true "juicing" IMO.

plus of juicing: goes into bloodstream quicker as stomach doesn't have to digest.

cons: you miss the fiber which is the system cleanser much like a broom.

I never tire of saying to feed them fruit and veggies in ANY way they will eat it. Once the taste buds get used to ginger, spinach, Kale, etc. don't be surprised if one day you serve the same stuff in a stir fry and it's eaten without protestation.

my only caution would be to avoid too much fruit as can lead to too much sugar. One single apple or pear or whatever will take the veggie bitterness so no need to put a gillion fruit.

I agree with Lisa. And I add peanut butter or almond butter instead of yogurt for the protein. Protein powders help too.

Is Greek yogurt not a good protein source? I thought it was healthy? Dd claims she can "taste" the protein powder we have...she doesn't like it in her smoothies.

I really appreciate all of this info, y'all!!

I don't like the taste of protein in my veggie smoothies so if I'm having protein, I drink that separately (I prefer unflavored/unsweetened whey mixed with unflavored/unsweetened almond milk).

People will be all over the map on what is a good protein source as good is a rather nebulous term. You could try reducing the protein powder if it is just a "taste" issue. Some protein powders have a texture issue. -There are many other things you could try adding like nuts or chia seeds or hemp seeds. Too many nuts would be bad for somebody watching their weight but not for an active 14 year old. For the sugar issue, I would probably reduce the banana. Nutritionally, the spinach is the same since you are blending the whole thing. There are some who think that you may be releasing even more nutrients by the blender breaking up the cell walls that you would not accomplish as well with chewing.

nini, it feels good to know our kids are eating healthy, doesn't it? I bet you are glad your DD is eating some good vegetables, etc. -even though they are juiced. Better than she was eating before, so I would keep doing it.

As far as protein, we have tried many protein shake powders and none have tasted as good as Herbalife. Believe me, it makes a difference if you get a good-tasting one. My son drinks at least two a day, and they really are good! I buy the Healthy Meal (it has some protein) one because it doesn't have soy. Their protein powder does have soy and ever so often I put some of the protein in his shake. I also put a scoop of peanut butter in his shake also, he is an athlete, and needs a little more weight on him.

I'm going to get into the greens and vegetables to use in my Blendtec-I just need to take the time and get some ideas. My DS will always try anything! He might or might not like it, but he at least tries-which I'm so glad.