Monday, January 11, 2010

Green Smoothie of the Day

Spinach-strawberry-blueberry-goji berry-hemp seed-banana

Health Benefits:

Spinach (two big handfuls or more, baby spinach)
  • Excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, magnesium, folate, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B2, potassium, and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, phosphorus, vitamin E, zinc, dietary fiber, and copper. Plus, it’s a good source of selenium, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids
  • Loaded with flavonoids which act as antioxidants
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Slows age-related decline in brain function
  • Protects against eye diseases
  • Excellent source of iron

Strawberries (two hands-full)

  • Source of vitamin C
  • Antioxidants
  • Excellent source of vitamin K and manganese, as well as folic acid, potassium, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, copper, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids

Blueberries (half pint)

  • Some of the planets best antioxidants (cancer fighter, heart helper ... antioxidants can help your body with almost everything)
  • Helps improve vision

Goji Berry (30 berries)

  • For their weight — a daily serving is only 10 to 30 grams — they have more vitamin C than oranges, more beta carotene than carrots and more iron than steak
  • Beta carotene helps protect your skin from the sun
  • Good source of B vitamins and antioxidants
  • Rich in polysaccharides that support your immune system
  • They have 18 kinds of amino acids, and are a rich source of potassium
  • They taste like little pillows of honey. No joke.

Hemp Seed (1tbsp)

  • Second only to soybean in protein content
  • Contains all 20 known amino acids including the 9 essential amino acids (EAAs) our bodies cannot produce
  • Free of the tryspin inhibitors that block protein absorption
  • Free of oligosaccharides found in soy that cause upset-stomach and give you gas
  • Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure
  • Ladies: helps with menstrual cramps
  • Promotes organ health
  • Helps in recovery after exercise
  • Nutty flavour that goes with everything. Yum.

Banana (x2)

  • Rich in vitamin B6 and they are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium (lack of B6 in a diet can cause weakness, irritability and insomnia)
  • Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke
  • Potassium helps muscles to contract properly during exercise
  • Plenty of carbs = good source of energy
  • "The good mood food" -- may help to overcome depression!

Add two cups of water, blend, and enjoy.

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