A smoothie can be a great way to get plenty of health products into our bodies in a concise form. Other than including the fruits and veggies you already include in your morning smoothie, there are some additional ingredients that you can add for more impact on your health. The following three ingredients are great add-ins to any smoothie, not only for taste, but also for their health benefits.
1. Flax Seed – The Harmonizer
Flax seed is a great addition to your smoothie for the many different health benefits is can provide. I have called it “the Harmonizer” because it has a great impact on harmonizing the different hormones in your body that might be too much or too little. It balances them out promoting more tranquility in your body. Digestion can also be aided Flax seed also contains essential fatty acids which are important in cardiovascular and brain health. Two table spoons of flax seed can be effectively added to smoothies to get the health benefits from this little seed. The flax seed should be ground up and should be stored in the freezer in order to keep it from going rancid.
- Coconut Oil – The Energizer
Not only can coconut oil add a smooth taste to your smoothie, but it can also provide some health benefits as well. Coconut oil is considered a healthy fat and contains medium chain fatty acids, which have been shown to provide energy. These fats provide fuel for the brain and are also beneficial for cholesterol levels. Try adding one to two tablespoons in your morning smoothie for that boost you need!
- Spinach – The Power House
You might find it odd the thought of putting veggies in your smoothie, particularly the veggie deemed famous through Pop-Eye. However adding this veggie to your smoothie does not change the taste of the smoothie (try it out)! I like to call this ingredient “The Power House” because of the punch of nutrition that this veggie can provide! Spinach is a good source of iron, folic acid, vitamin B6, nitrates, oxalates, beta-carotene, and lutein! Spinach is also a veggie that has anti-inflammatory benefits! Try adding one to two cups of spinach into your smoothie to get the most impact out of your smoothie!
Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, please book an appointment with Elisha Cook at the RSNC today and let me help you achieve your health goals.