If you’ve been grabbing a premade smoothie from the store thinking it’s a quick and healthy choice for fat loss, you might want to reconsider. While they’re often marketed as nutrient-packed beverages, many bottled smoothies are actually loaded with hidden sugars that could be sabotaging your weight loss goals—and even your long-term health.
“Premade smoothies can be detrimental to health due to their high content of added sugars,” Lisa Richards, nutritionist and creator of the Candida Diet, confirms. “These added sugars contribute to several health issues when consumed excessively.”
This Clean, Effective Powder Helps Support Muscle Growth, Endurance, And Recovery
Avoid Premade Smoothies For Weight Loss
While a homemade smoothie made with whole fruits, veggies, and healthy fats can be a great way to nourish your body, Richards warns that store-bought versions often contain far more sugar than your body needs in a single sitting. "They can lead to weight gain and obesity due to their high calorie content," she says, noting that "overconsumption of added sugars can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by causing insulin resistance and impairing blood sugar control."
In addition to practicing certain healthy habits, Richards emphasizes that limiting your intake of sugar—especially the kind hiding in packaged beverages—can help keep your blood sugar levels stable and support overall health.
And it’s not just your waistline or blood sugar at risk. "Excessive sugar intake has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and high blood pressure," Richards points out. "Moreover, consuming sugary drinks, including smoothies, has been associated with a higher likelihood of dental cavities and tooth decay."
The bottom line
If you want the benefits of a smoothie without the health risks, your best bet is to make it yourself at home. Stick to whole fruits, leafy greens, unsweetened milk or water, and a source of protein to keep it filling, low in added sugars, and truly weight-loss-friendly.
