This 5-minute energy-boosting smoothie will start your week off with a “spring” in your step even in the cold spring days. The key to a 5-minute smoothie is to have all the items you use stored in the same space so you’re not running all over!
Start the Day with an Energy-Boosting Smoothie
I think many of us are feeling the strain of being stuck at home during this COVID-19 lockdown. That’s especially true today since it’s Easter and snowing! It’s more important than ever to have joy, a routine and energy-boosting good nutrition.
This smoothie is packed with nutrients that promote energy from the body and brain and promote a healthy immune system. Here’s what’s in store for you when you take in each of these ingredients.
Baby Kale
Kale is one of the most nutritionally dense foods. It’s packed with 100% of the RDA of Vitamin C and 200% of the RDA for Vitamin A. This supports immunity, skin and brain health. Kale is the perfect start for anyone’s day with the combination of nutrition for both the immune system and brain. Kale is also rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium and manganese and a potent anti-inflammatory because of its antioxidant content.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used as a medicinal herb in India for thousands of years. The bright orange color screams I’m packed with antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties. Science has now started to back up the medicinal properties. We know the active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin improves antioxidant capacity and improves brain function.
Turmeric
Ginger
Ginger is a flowering herb that contains powerful medicinal properties. The anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in ginger come from the active ingredient called Gingerol. Ginger is effective in treating nausea, reducing muscle and joint pain and can be effective in lowering blood sugar. Ginger can be effective in stimulating brain function since oxidative stress and inflammation lead to premature aging. Another great reason for a morning smoothie.
Maca Powder
Maca is a plant native to Peru that also has a history of medicinal use. It can be purchased in a powder or supplement form. It’s traditionally known to boost libido and fertility, but also touted to improve energy and stamina . Bodybuilders and athletes supplement with Maca to increase muscle strength, improve endurance and decrease recovery time. Studies have also shown maca can decrease anxiety and may improve brain function. Natives in Peru have used it for centuries to improve children’s performance in school.
Left to right: Turmeric Ginger Powder, Vegan Protein Powder, Maca and Cacao Nibs
Cacao Nibs
While 70% or higher dark chocolate is good for you cacao nibs take it to the next level. Cacao nibs are the most unprocessed natural form of chocolate that contain no sugar and have a distinct nutty taste. Cacao in its raw form is packed with antioxidants and flavonoids which contain free radical scavenging capacity and anti-cancer properties. One once of cacao nibs also contains 9 grams of fiber and 64 mg of magnesium.
5-Minute Energy-Boosting Smoothie
Try this energy-boosting smoothie to give your body, brain and immune system the kick it needs!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups baby kale
- 1 cup almond milk (or coconut)
- 1 T maca powder
- 1 tsp turmeric ginger powder
- 1 scoop vanilla plant-based protein powder
- 1/8 tsp mint extract (optional)
- 1 T cacao nibs
- 1 frozen banana (cut into chunks)
Instructions
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1. Add the baby kale to a Vitamix or Ninja type blender
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2. Add almond milk
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3. Add the rest of the ingredients (except the cacao nibs)
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4. Blend at high until completely smooth
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5. Pour into glass, add straw and top with cacao nibs
Enjoy and stay healthy & safe!
