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I make smoothies just about every day, and put different mixes of fruit together for them. I buy frozen fruit (berries and mango chunks, mostly) in the winter, and mix in fresh fruit most of the time, such as bananas, pears and apples. I like a blend of fresh and frozen because the fresh fruit blends more easily but the frozen fruit gives it a slushy, cold taste that makes it extra delicious. In the summer, when I don’t need to use frozen fruit due to the bounty of local fresh fruit available, I usually throw in a couple of ice cubes to achieve that same frosty characteristic. Recently, I have loaded the smoothies up with “superfood” powders and seeds (purchased in health food stores) to boost the nutrition. I am trying hard to keep the flu out of my house, and this can’t hurt! These are the packages I line up on the kitchen counter, and what the packages claim:
acai powder-“loaded with antioxidants . . . essential amino acids (and) many other micronutrients, including resveratrol, polyphenols and flavenoids, as well as magnesium and potassium.” (from the Navitas Naturals brand package)
chia seeds-excellent source of fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
flaxseed meal-rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and lignans.
maca powder, derived from a Peruvian root-“a nutritional storehouse of minerals, vitamins and fiber including vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, proteins and tannins. Maca Powder is rich in quality alkaloids and carbohydrates which can form the basis for sustainable energy.” (from the Ojio brand package)
hemp seed powder-“Protein from hemp seeds is one of the highest vegetarian sources and is highly absorbable. Additionally, the seeds contain all the essential amino acids making hemp a complete protein. Hemp seeds possess an ideally balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, manganese, zinc, and a good source of potassium and iron.” (from the Navitas Naturals brand package)
While I don’t rely completely on marketing for my information, I have read about these ingredients in other sources that tout them as nutritional superfoods and encourage adding them to recipes for general health. They don’t seem to change the flavor of the smoothie. They are expensive, but they will last awhile (I store them in the refrigerator), and I think it is worth it if they work to keep my family healthier.
handful of raspberries
2 strawberries
3 mango chunks
4 pineapple chunks
¾ cup orange juice
scant teaspoonful of each:
flaxseed meal
acai powder
hemp powder
maca powder
chia seeds
Blend until smooth. One serving.