As winter is approaching, we need to find ways to improve our health and add immune – boosting ingredients to our diet. Flu season is just around the corner and the chances of catching a cold are now higher than ever. The best way to avoid this is to think ahead and prepare your kitchen pantry with a stash of healthy super foods. A daily intake of fruits and veggies will definitely help you maintain a strong immune system! If you’re not into cooking, yet you want to add healthy ingredients to your meal plan, smoothies are the best choice for you.
Why are smoothies good for you?
Smoothies are an awesome way to start your day, or beat an afternoon slump. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals and many beneficial nutrients that will help you improve your health. Depending on the ingredients, a smoothie a day can improve your digestion, increase your energy, enhance nutrient absorption and help you get clear, glowing skin. Plus, they’re delicious! It’s such a yummy, quick and healthy way to feel energized and feel your best.
So, gather your favorite fruits and veggies and learn how to get plenty of nutritious ingredients in one glass.
Here are the best immune – boosting smoothie recipes:
Blueberry Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 tablespoons walnuts
- 1 cup almond milk
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
Blueberries contain high amounts of antioxidants, which is why they’re considered a super-food. They’re also anti – inflammatory and rich in vitamin C. Walnuts and chia seeds are rich in omega – 3s, calcium and fiber. Cinnamon contains calcium and fiber as well and almond milk is the best liquid to pair with these ingredients. Yummy and super healthy!
Green Ginger Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 chopped Granny Smith apple
- 3 teaspoons fresh minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
- ¾ cup water
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon raw honey
Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
Baby spinach is a great source of vitamin A, calcium, folate and iron. Green apples contain vitamin C, potassium and dietary fiber. Ginger has powerful anti – inflammatory and anti – oxidant properties; containing Vitamin B3 and B6, iron, potassium, magnesium and zinc. Hemp seeds are rich in healthy fats- omega-3s and omega-6 fatty acids, potassium and vitamin E; they’re also a great source of plant protein. Together these ingredients create a powerful, healthy smoothie that will give your body a nutritional boost!
Strawberry & Peach Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strawberries
- 1 cup frozen peaches
- half a cup pineapple chunks
- 10 oz orange juice
Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
All of the ingredients in this smoothie are packed with vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant and an essential for maintaining a strong immune system!
Mango & Tahini Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen mango
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- half a cup of water
Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
Mango is a great source of vitamin A, beta – carotene and alpha – carotene. Tahini contains healthy fatty acids and protein. Also, it adds a nice nutty flavor that pairs so well with the other ingredients!
Vitamin C Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 2 sliced and chopped kiwis
- 1 cup frozen strawberries
- ½ cup frozen blueberries
- 3/4 cups frozen raspberries
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
This smoothie is loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C! Kiwi fruit is one of the most nutritious vitamin C foods around. It’s high in antioxidants which makes it excellent for avoiding the cold and staying healthy in the flu season. It’s also a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin E, folate and potassium. Blueberries are as well high in antioxidants and vitamin C, which makes this combo a powerful immune system booster!
Finally, it’s important to know that smoothies are in no way a replacement for a full meal. These tasty beverages can’t fix a poor diet, but they’re definitely a great addition to a healthy diet. So if you haven’t done it already, go ahead and create the habit of having one every day. You’ll improve your nutrition and feel healthier, refreshed and energized. Most importantly – you’ll help your body protect itself and avoid catching the cold!