"...we don't need no thought control..."
A good anthem to start each day. Somehow, that line is often hummed under my breath as I prepare our early morning super smoothie. Why? Because I was (eons ago it seems) trying to explain to someone about the 6 essential ingredients that go into our smoothie most every day, and why. "Sort of like bricks in a wall", I remember saying. "If each and every brick has integrity and is functioning optimally, then the strength of the whole takes care of itself."
And so it is. The Pink Floyd smoothie connection in my head has been hard to budge ever since.
Both my daughter and I start the day with cleansing. I'm the full-pot-four-cups of warm moringa tea girl while I read, reflect, think, meditate and pray, often well before dawn. Miss 14 sleeps till the last minute and is more of a gulp her water-with-lime-juice down while she hustles and feeds the cats on the way to the bathroom kinda girl. Neither of us have the time or inclination to eat before 7am, so we pack all of our nutrition into a super smoothie, which we have religiously before we head off on the school run around 7.15am.
Having owned and run one of the very first smoothie-fresh-juice bars in Chiang Mai way back in 2005, long before smoothies or fresh juices were popular, customers and friends always, always always ask me for my pro-smoothie tips and what I put in ours.
So, here it is.
We use whatever seasonal fruit is in great abundance - almost always banana. And then add papaya, mango or pineapple, typically. Sometimes mulberries, dragon fruit, fresh coconut meat or ripe avocado. And then in goes the magic.
First, moringa powder.
Warm air-dried, organic leaves that are powdered. Why add them? Moringa is well studied by the World Health Organisation and renowned for its superfood status. It's a powerful anti-inflammatory, balances hormones, regulates blood pressure, boosts the immune system, improves digestive health, regulates blood sugar, supports skin health, nourishes the brain and balances mood. It's a rich source of protein, vitamins and minerals, it tastes pleasant, and is packed with valuable phytonutrients. You can read more here: https://draxe.com/moringa-benefits/ I add one desert spoon full.
Second, Bee Pollen.
Bee pollen is a complete protein, rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and anti-oxidants, and is considered an immune system builder which also enhances vitality. Bee pollen is a great brain booster, lifting brain fatigue, improving alertness and helping concentration levels. Bee pollen contains over 250 bioactive substances! https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bee-pollen#section4 One desert spoon full.
Third, Cold Pressed, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil.
For brain power & concentration, slow-releasing energy, detoxification, gorgeous skin and immune support. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coconut-oil A generous 3 tablespoons.
Fourth, either Home-Made Coconut Cream Kefir, or a good Probiotic Yoghurt.
It being so warm in Thailand, kefir is a challenge because it ferments soooo quickly. In hot season I have a new batch ready every 24 hours, and one can only give so much away. When I have it, I use the kefir water instead of plain water in the smoothie, and use the fermented coconut cream. It is really, really good!! Yum. But I tire of it - the mountain of coconut shells harbouring snakes can be an issue, so sometimes I have a few kefir free months and go back to store-bought yoghurt. Usually two big tablespoons full. Why yoghurt or kefir? Live probiotics.
Fifth, some finely ground Organic Black Rice Powder.
Black rice is incredible stuff. We add the very finely ground powder to increase the feeling of fullness, and because it delivers slow-releasing energy so no one is starving by 10am. It is rich in particular antioxidants and phytonutrients which steadily encourage fat burning in the body, rather than fat storage. Black foods also are renowned for their specific flavenoids which protect the body from cancers and disease. https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/health-benefits-of-black-rice/#gref How much do I add? A smallish desert spoon, since too much makes the smoothie too thick, far too filling and very hard to drink.
And lastly, Fresh Lime Juice.
The ultimate blast of pure, natural vitamin C for cellular repair and immune support. Its alkalysing effect in the body helps to support glowing natural health. I use the juice of at least one lime, and sometimes two.
We both drink one HUGE glass (almost 500ml) of smoothie and that's it till lunchtime (except Mama indulges in yummy hot strong black organic coffee mid morning as well!). The body is nourished and supported for an amazingly productive morning.
Traditional ideas of toast and eggs or cereals for breakfast be damned. THINK and know that your daily small habits are the bricks and building blocks for your health, not just today but also later in life. Nourish yourself optimally - and in a YUMMY way! - and start each day with pleasure and the knowledge that you are taking superb care of yourself.
Fun Fact: Banana, Red Dragon Fruit and Lime tastes remarkably like Raspberry. T'was really, really yum!
Food is Medicine.
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