insideKENT Magazine Issue 51 - June 2016 | Page 100

HEALTH+WELLNESS THE ULTIMATE SMOOTHIE Though undeniably good for you, green smoothies can sometimes leave you with a bad taste in your mouth…literally. So, we’ve searched high and low for the ultimate smoothie recipe – one that offers a perfectly balanced fusion of healthboosting nutrients and amazing taste. Try this recipe and not only feel good about what you’re doing for your body, but also your taste buds. 1 cup almond milk Almond milk is rich in vitamins such as vitamin E and A – antioxidants that enhance your immunity and protect your body’s cells and tissues from damage. It’s also a great source of vitamin D and calcium, helping build and maintain strong bones and teeth. 1/2 cup coconut water Naturally fat- and cholesterol-free, coconut milk is high in potassium and provides electrolytes to keep you hydrated. It’s a great source of antioxidants, copper and magnesium, which if you don’t get enough of, could lead to low energy levels, diabetes and osteoporosis. 1/2 cup fresh spinach Considered one of the world’s healthiest foods, spinach is an excellent choice for smoothies to give you a boost of vitamins C, A, B2, B6 and K, plus it will give you a hefty dose of manganese, folate, magnesium, iron and calcium. 1/2 tbsp almond butter Almond butter contains healthy fats and fibre, two essential elements you need to reach optimal health. This tasty ingredient can help regulate blood sugar, lower your risk of heart attack and aid in muscle function and bone strength. 1/2 large frozen banana, cut into chunks Bananas are known for being a great source of potassium, but that’s not all these tropical fruits have to offer. Bananas can also help combat depression due to high levels of tryptophan, relieve anemia with their levels of iron, and strengthen your nervous system with their high levels of vitamin B6. 1/2 cup frozen blueberries Blueberries are one of the tastiest superfoods available, offering a host of health benefits including better brain health and memory function, and possibly even warding off heart disease and cancer. These sweet little spheres are believed to contain the highest antioxidant capacity of all commonly consumed fruits and vegetables. 1/2 tbsp chia seeds Easy to digest and versatile, chia seeds pack a nutrientrich punch to your smoothies. High in fibre, omega3 fats, protein, vitamins and minerals, chia seeds may play a part in maintaining digestive health, clearing your skin and balancing your metabolism. 1/2 tbsp honey Coined ‘liquid gold’, the benefits and uses of honey goes back centuries. From po tentially reducing allergy symptoms and easing a cough, to reducing ulcers and preventing heart disease, honey is a powerful ingredient and perfect for smoothies. Method: Blend all ingredients thoroughly, adding more coconut water if a thinner consistency is desired. 100