Depending on what you put into your smoothie, it can help you take your health to all new levels, or it can bring it crashing down.
Smoothies should be seen as an energizing and delicious tool; a way to enjoy some of the best superfoods in one glass.
Here are seven ingredients that will supercharge your smoothie and help you make the most of some of the healthiest foods on the planet.
Chia Seeds
Use nutrient-dense chia seeds to thicken your smoothie and add a little bit of texture. Chia seeds provide a concentrated source of protein and trace minerals. Rich in essential fatty acids, these tiny little seeds blend easily with fruits and vegetables. Be sure that you get organic chia seeds to avoid pesticides.
Cacao Powder
Cacao is the raw form of chocolate and is one of the world’s greatest sources of antioxidants known as polyphenols and flavonoids, in addition to magnesium, iron and potassium. In fact, cacao powder has more flavonoids than any other food.
Two particular flavonoids found in cacao are catechin and epicatechin, which help prevent and treat a number of lifestyle illnesses. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the flavonoids in cacao are easily absorbed into the bloodstream in their complete form. Try adding cacao to a banana or berry green smoothie.
Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is a light and healthy addition to any fruit or spinach-based smoothie. It contains necessary beneficial fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants.
Making wheatgrass a part of your smoothies will boost your energy, improve immune function and help your body detoxify. In addition, wheatgrass helps promote a healthy pH in the body. For fun, try growing your own wheatgrass from organic seeds or purchase high quality wheatgrass powder.
Coconut Oil
Organic extra virgin coconut oil is one of the healthiest foods on the planet. This healthy, tropical, saturated fat contains lauric acid, which protects the immune system and is the same ingredient found in breast milk.
Lauric acid has been shown to increase good cholesterol in the body and positively impact thyroid function and blood sugar balance. Try mixing coconut oil with bananas, strawberries, raw honey and organic almond milk for a delicious treat.
Avocados
This warm-climate fruit is truly a super superfood. It has a super smooth texture and grows in tropical climates such as Mexico, California, Hawaii and Florida. Not everyone is fond of this amazing fruit because of its texture, however, the rich smooth taste and nutty flavor are a delectable addition to a smoothie.
Avocados contain healthy monounsaturated fats which protect the heart, balance blood sugar and lower blood pressure. They also contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids with vitamin E, nutrients and enzymes that reduce inflammation. Combine avocados and cucumbers for a fresh and healthy smoothie boost. Choose fresh avocados and allow them to ripen before using.
Organic Hemp Protein Powder
Hemp contains all of the amino acids necessary to make a complete protein, making it a great protein source for both vegans and vegetarians. Hemp protein is also a good source of fiber and fatty acids that reduce inflammation and prevent heart disease while improving neurological conditions.
Organic hemp protein powder is made from ground hemp seeds and can be found in many different flavors that can combine well with a number of other healthy smoothie ingredients.
Marine Phytoplankton
Marine phytoplankton is similar to chlorella and spirulina, which have been around for a very long time. Phytoplankton contains resveratrol, which has been shown to reverse aging, improve energy levels, detoxify the body, improve allergies, improve brain function and promote weight loss.
Research is touting this micro-algae, which is grown in the ocean and contains every known mineral and all of the amino acids our body needs to gain optimal health. It is also a source of omega-3, even more powerful than the popular, well-known sources like fish or flax oil.
Add marine phytoplankton to virtually any smoothie to promote health and healing.
Happy Blending!
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.metaboliceffect.com/cocoa/
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/8-healthy-facts-about-avocados
http://www.naturalnews.com/040067_avocado_cancer_prevention_superfood.html
