Things that Mix: What to Look for

[BaileyBariatrics 615]

Blenders and Mixers….where to start?

The Key Points:

• The main key is the power of the motor. The more powerful the motor, the faster the blades rotate. A motor that is 900 watts will mix much better than a motor that is 300 watts. An evenly smooth texture is more likely with more powerful blenders and mixers.
• The products listed are ones our patients use more frequently.
• Look for a blender that is in your budget, works well for what you want to use it for and how easy it is to clean. Keep in mind how much space you have in your kitchen, too.
• Some of the blenders/mixers can only pulse and may list a time limit on how long to pulse.
• Products listed are for making Protein Shakes or smoothies only.

Shaker Cups

• Widely available in many retail stores and in the BariatricPal Store. Prices range from $6-$20.
• Made to mix Protein powders with fluids.
• Easy to carry with you. Great for traveling.
• Sometimes it’s more difficult to mix the protein powder completely in a shaker cup.
• PROMiXX (original) and version 2.0 Vortex Mixer
• Original lists for about $30 on Amazon. Needs regular batteries.
• The 2.0 has a rechargeable, lithium battery that requires a USB port. Starts about $50 on Amazon.
• Great for mixing protein powders and liquid.
• Great for traveling or when you are just on the go.
• Although this is not dishwasher safe, it is easy to clean.

Vitamix Systems

• The product has been around since 1949.
• Prices range from $400-$720.
• Can make smoothies.
• An extended warranty is available.

Ninja Systems

• Ninja Fit 16 oz. Blender – Comes with two blender cups. Motor is 700 watts. One speed. Starts around $60.
• Nutri Ninja Pro 24-Oz. Blender – This is just for blending shakes. Motor is 900 W. Comes with 18 oz. and 24 oz. blender jars. One speed only. Starts around $100.
• Nutri Professional 3-Speed Blender – Comes with 72 oz. pitcher and 16 oz. cup. Price starts around $140.
• Ninja Auto-iQ Blender – There are several models that have the Auto-iQ cycle. This pauses through the cycle to allow food to fall towards the blades. These will have different speeds and may have both automatic and manual settings. Designed to make blended (“extracted”) smoothies using vegetables, seeds, nuts and fruits. Prices range from $120-$160.

Magic Bullet/NutriBullet Systems

• Magic Bullet is the original product in the line. The original can blend protein powders and fluids to create smooth protein shakes. Does a fairly good job pureeing soft, fresh fruit, canned or frozen fruit that has been thawed. Don’t expect the Magic Bullet to provide a completely smooth texture for blended or extracted smoothies. Motor is 250 watts. Starts at $40. Check to make sure whether you are buying a new or refurbished machine.
• NutriBullet Series comes in several models. Check websites and advertisements to find discounted prices. Most come with recipes. Check to see if parts are hand wash or dishwasher safe.
• NutriBullet (Original) – Eight or 12 Piece Sets. Starts around $80. Motor is 600 watts.
• NutriBullet Pro 900 – Nine to 15 piece sets. Starts around $100. Motor is 900 watts.
• NutriBulletRx – 10 piece set. Starts around $180. Motor is 1,700 watts. Has an extra heating feature to make Soups or warm beverages. Could use other NutriBullets and heat product in microwave. This is larger than the original and Pro 900 machines.

Other smoothie Blenders:

• Look for other personal blenders by Oster, Farberware and Elite.
• Immersion Blenders are hand-held blenders that you immerse in your cup or glass to blend. These can also be used to puree soft cooked vegetables and soups.

More Options

Consider using a hand-held mixer to mix your protein powders and Fluid together. Get a work out by using a whisk to blend the protein powder and fluid together.