These days when everything seems so unpredictable the only constant you can make sure you have in your life is the green smoothie.
Personally, I know that as long as I get them going from the morning, wherever I am, I’ve taken care of a big part of my daily nutrition. Since it is also the transitional time of the seasons we need that extra dash of care. Temperatures drop, viruses spread, immunity decreases. You need to make sure you get a wide selection of micro and macro nutrients to help your body cope.
I’m a big fan of adaptogens as the guardian angels of food. They go and support wherever there’s something to attend.
According to the Meriam-Webster an adaptogen is:
“a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body’s ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning”
In other words an adaptogen is a food that helps your body and organism adjust to difficult conditions without having a specific path to act on. They help lower the bad effects if stress on our bodies by increasing both physical and emotional health. On a cellular level they help normalise the functions off all cells and support homeostasis.
There are many Adaptogens found in all healing traditions around the world. By eating these plants you are also taking their energy and adaptability so you can choose according to your needs what would you like to have added to your diet.
If you’re taking on a new project, business opportunity or have too much to handle om your plate and need loads of energy to roam around you need to be able to support your organism with the right elements. That’s also the right time to boost your system with nutrients to ensure a good capacity of dealing with unpredictable situations within your body.
Here are a few of my favourite Adaptogens:
- Reishi – the main adaptogen in Chinese Medicine – a symbol of longevity in Asia, revered for centuries as a powerful rejuvenator and mind sharpener.
- Ginseng – thee are two types of Ginseng: American and Asian. Thee are differences in between them, the Asian one being much stronger and potent but generally they are known for improving mental performance and increase ability to cope with stress. Also has antioxidant effects, antidepressant effects, and can help lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels. You can find out more about it here.
- Ashwaganda – the main Adaptogen in Ayurvedic medicine, also known as Indian Ginsenf has been used since antiquity as a strengthening herb, helping people recover from illness. It protects the immune system, improves memory and mind clarity, supports the adrenal glands in dealing with stress and offers anti inflammatory benefits. More on it here.
- Maca – also called ‘Peruvian Ginseng’, a radish like plant that grows at very high altitudes being able to withstand extreme climate from freezing cold to burning sunlight. It increases energy and stamina, oxygenate the blood, supports the endocrine system and adrenal glands, enhances libido.
- Bee pollen – known as the secret ambrosia by the Greeks and Romans, it was revered as the eternal food. It has rejuvenating powers, aids beauty, boosts energy, extends life span, fights allergies and relieves digestive disorders. Bee pollen bursts with easily-assimilated protein and lecithin, which nourish the brain and nervous system.
There are many others Adaptogens around the world in all medical traditions. Depending on your needs you can find the right ones to suit your requirements and body type. If you are under medication or have a certain condition and you’re not sure if you should carry on, always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
In relation to our green smoothie here you have a collaboration of forces: the vitamin C from the orange supporting the assimilation of iron from kale, as well a dash of bee pollen to support the adrenal glands and allow you to roam like the busy bee you are. Rememeber to be considerate to the amounts of pollen you’re using as bees are working very hard for each pollen grain that makes up a teaspoon.
This Green Smoothie can keep you going for a good half of day if you add to it as well the magic chia seeds. I simply can’t get enough of them! They’re rich in Omega 3, protein, phosphorous and calcium. In that tiny seed! Amazing! Who needs milk?!
Here’s the mix to fix 🙂
Ingredients:
– 2 handfuls kale
– 1 juicy orange
– 1 knob ginger
– a few mint leaves
– 2 tbsp chia seeds
– 1 tsp beepolen
– 1 small banana
How to:
Add the greens first, then the rest of the ingredients and water half way through. Blend thoroughly and enjoy!
To your health!
