I confess. I am a confirmed smoothie junkie. What's more, I am actually proud of it.

When I began experimenting with truly healthy smoothie recipes a few years ago, I noticed that
my near obsessive desire for sweets began to subside. And my energy level began to soar.

Now, I actually prefer the taste of a freshly-made smoothie to that of a sugar-filled milkshake or malt any day. The key to curbing those refined sugar cravings is to feed your body an abundance of
vitamins and minerals, along with several servings of naturally sweet foods daily.

Yes, kicking the sugar habit will take commitment. And a little work. But it's definitely doable.
Here are a few healthy smoothie recipes to help you get started:

GINGER TROPICAL SMOOTHIE

1/2 cup orange juice

1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks

1/2 banana

1/4 to 1/2 tsp. grated fresh ginger root; peeled

1/2 cup crushed ice

Add all ingredients to blender and process until smooth.
Serves 1

Ginger is a powerful root that helps to soothe the stomach. I have used it myself many times to help keep nausea at bay. Some experts also claim that ginger can help to ease the symptoms of arthritis.

HAWAIIAN SMOOTHIE

1 cup cubed peeled pineapple

2 cups cubed ripe mango; peeled

1 ripe banana peeled and cut into chunks

1/2 cup plain yogurt

1 tsp. extra-virgin coconut oil

Combine all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.
Serves 2

Bananas are very high in plant protein. They are a good source of vitamins A, B1, B2 and niacin. Yogurt is a calcium-rich food that boosts the digestive system.

MELON MADNESS SMOOTHIE

2 cups seeded and chopped watermelon

1 1/2 cups seeded and chopped honeydew melon

1 1/2 cups ripe papaya

1 cup guava nectar

1 cup ice cubes

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into glasses.

Makes 2 - 3 servings

Watermelon is rich in provitamin A, potassium and zinc, which some experts say helps combat impotence. Papayas are a good source of both beta carotene and vitamin C.