Superfood smoothies, During this tough time, we all are discovering new interests and hobbies. Cooking is surely one area that most people would like to do. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, people are becoming more health-conscious and are giving attention to physical fitness as well. Let us look at some superfood smoothies that are a perfect meal for when you’re too bored to cook.
Smoothies are something all of us love, they are an ideal way to add fruits and vegetables to your diet henceforth making it a quintessential snack or breakfast option if you are not fond of eating them straight-up. According to Nmami Agarwal, a Delhi based celebrity nutritionist, “ if you are not in the mood to cook something or if you feel that your children are not getting
enough nutrients you can replace it with smoothies.” On asking the Goa-based and Mumbai based nutritionists Harpreet Pasricha and Fatema Valikarimwala for their treasured nourishing smoothies one can make with easily available ingredients we have some recipes.
A REFRESHING POST WORKOUT SMOOTHIE
As per Agarwal, “ banana is loaded with both soluble and insoluble fiber and provides a good amount of energy.” She suggests making this effortless smoothies post-workout or for mid-day hunger cravings. “Plus, kale is loaded with powerful antioxidants like kaempferol and quercetin and includes beta-carotene and Vitamin C. Cucumber is a great way of providing hydration to the skin, while hemp seeds are high in protein and rich in good fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids,” she says. To make blend one medium-sized banana, half cup kale leaves, half a peeled and diced cucumber, and some hemp seeds, but the greens can be swapped for what you have available.
A BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE BOWL
“ Oats contain a powerful soluble fiber called beta-glucan and are rich in antioxidants. It helps in regulating the blood glucose levels and help in reducing bad cholesterol levels. Apples are nutritious filled with antioxidants that have a prebiotic effect to promote good gut bacteria and are really good for your heart health as well,” says Agarwal. She suggests mixing one tablespoon oats, roasted cinnamon powder, one small apple, one pitted date, almond milk and water, and leave overnight in the refrigerator. Then, blend into a smoothie consistency in the AM.
A COOLING ANTIOXIDANT-BOOSTING SMOOTHIE
“ Mangoes are packed with polyphenols, which basically plant compounds that function as antioxidants and are also a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C,” says Valikarimwala about the in-season fruit Bananas, on the other hand, are fairly rich in fiber thereby aiding in better digestion and adding to the satiety quotient of the smoothie. “Almond milk is a great vegan, lactose a free option which is rich in Vitamin E and complements the flavor,” she says.
To make, mix frozen mango and banana with almond milk, and blend to a thick consistency. “You can add soaked basil seeds to add to the cooling effect,” she says.
A GUT-HEALTH IMPROVING SMOOTHIE
“Adding yogurt to the mix is a great way to add probiotics to your diet that will help to promote good gut health,” says Pasricha. “Coconuts are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and pineapple is rich in Vitamin C.,” she says of the immune-boosting picks. “Adding a dash of cinnamon will aid in building the immune system too,” she says. Mix four tablespoons of yogurt, a piece of ginger, grated coconut, pineapple and a pinch of cinnamon. “Serve
with mint leaves and cinnamon powder if you can,” she says.
A FIBRE HEAVY GREEN SMOOTHE THAT DOUBLES AS A SNACK
“For someone who doesn’t really enjoy eating greens, this is the best way to sneak greens into your diet,” says Valikarimwala. It is packed with ingredients which are rich in Vitamin A, C, fibre and good fat. “Coriander leaves helps the body get rid of any heavy metal present in excess,” she says. Add baby spinach (or whatever greens you have on hand,) with mango, coconut milk, coconut water, soaked cashews, chopped coriander and ginger. Add lemon juice as well, to taste. “You can add mint leaves or a date too,” she confirms. This works as a great breakfast or snack, but its high fibre content means that is best had on its own, and not as a complement to a meal.
