Smoothies have become incredibly popular as a culinary “vehicle” that can deliver great nutrition and taste absolutely delicious. This recipe is one of my favorites—it’s refreshing, satisfying, and bursting with health. Every ingredient in this luscious, kid-friendly smoothie gives your body the vital nutrition it needs. It’s easy to make and take along with you, so you can enjoy it any place, any time—on your way to work, during an afternoon break, or simply relaxing after a long day.
Pineapple is a wonderful addition to smoothies. It delivers a huge dose of Vitamin C, has anti-inflammatory properties, and contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion. A note of caution: pineapple does contain relatively high levels of natural sugar, so some people may not be able to eat it. There are times I also choose not to eat it when I limit my intake of sugar for healing purposes. If you can’t have pineapple, substitute 2 apples, or 1 apple and 1 pear, for a tasty alternative.
To combat the sweet nature of the pineapple, I use healthy fats like hemp seeds and avocados that leave you feeling satisfied for a longer period of time. Hemp seeds add fiber and provide essential fatty acids like Omega 3, 6, and GLA (Gamma-linolenic acid) that help to regulate blood sugar and give long-lasting energy. Avocado is a heart-healthy, potassium-rich fat that reduces inflammation, lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and lessens blood sugar spikes.
Aside from being delicious, mulberries contain Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and iron, and they may even help with weight loss. They also provide an excellent source of resveratrol, the same anti-aging antioxidant that’s found in red wine.
Kale is a nutrient-dense addition that is very high in antioxidants, beta-carotene, and chlorophyll, and may even lower the risk of certain cancers.
Lucuma (a fruit from South America) adds sweetness without increasing blood sugar levels. It can satisfy any sweet tooth with its custard-like flavor, and provides fourteen essential trace minerals.
Finally, mint is a fresh, natural stimulant that relieves depression and fatigue, and, like pineapple, aids in digestion.
Recipe for Pineapple Mint SuperFood Smoothie
- 3 cups coconut water, from young coconuts or bottled coconut water
- 1 pineapple, chopped
- 2 cups kale, de-stemmed and chopped
- 1 avocado
- 3/4 cup mulberries, dried or fresh
- 1/3 cup hemp seeds
- 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup lucuma powder (optional)
Place all ingredients in a high-powered blender and blend well. You can garnish this tasty treat with fresh mint sprigs and mulberries for a festive look. Sit back, relax, and savor the creamy bliss of this green powerhouse of a smoothie!
