How many of us set health goals and decide to switch up our diets or make gym time more of a priority with each new year? I’m not one for new year resolutions, but I personally plan to challenge myself to eat more raw foods. I know people promise to be healthier and eat better, but many of us may struggle with consistency, which leads to us making the same resolution yet again the next new year.
My suggestion: let’s take baby steps together. Since I’m a juicer and smoothie aficionado, I want to hook you up a quick start to your day that will make your health goals easily attainable. Breakfast is the most important part of the day, but the majority of us skip it in a hurry to get to work or get the kids to school. Smoothies are an excellent way to get some nutrients in on the go especially when you keep the ingredients simple. This quick broccoli and pineapple coconut smoothie recipe will keep you on track throughout the year. Read on for the benefits of the ingredients and view the recipe below.
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable, low in calories but packed with vitamin A, C, K and dietary fiber. Cruciferous vegetables have been known to aid in fighting cancer and also help to improve heart health and assist in weight loss. Broccoli can even increase your metabolism, eye health and slow aging! Who doesn’t want those benefits?
Pineapple is rich in Vitamin C and high in fiber. It reduces inflammation and can lower your risk of colorectal cancer. It can also lower your blood glucose levels and promote regularity. Pineapple also helps to improve fertility and prevent asthma. In addition to it simply tasting amazing, it produces and adds to our happy hormones which means it fights depression and anxiety. Lastly, it aids in digestion and can ease the systems of acid reflux.
Bananas. I personally do not care for bananas, but I who can turn down health benefits? Besides, they’re something you can grab on the go for a fast snack. They’re a great pick-me-up snack because they boost energy so if you work out in the morning then you’ll want a banana in your smoothie before or after. They give your body the energy it needs to build muscle and strength. Bananas are rich in potassium and act as an electrolyte, helping to manage hydration levels within the body. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber, preventing constipation and regulating bowel functions. If you’re looking for a way to feel fuller longer then these are what you want.
Coconut Water is also potassium and it’s a high electrolyte. If you like the flavor then you’ll receive the other benefits like lowered cholesterol and blood pressure. Hemp seeds help those with diabetes, skin allergies, heart disease and arthritis. They feed the probiotics in your stomach to keep your immune system in check. You’ll find hemp seeds in hair, skin, and nail products because they promote healthy cell growth and combat skin disorders, such as psoriasis and dermatitis.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of broccoli
- 1 cup of pineapples
- 1 1/3 cup green apples (about two apples)
- 1 banana
- 1 tbsp of hemp seeds
- 1 cup of coconut water
Directions
- Throw all ingredients in a blender and let the machine go to work for you until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Top with chia seeds, flax seeds or whatever you like. I topped mine with shredded coconut.
- Drink up and you’re one step closer to reaching your health goals for the day!
Note:
I added a full dropper of golden Echinacea to mine because it’s still flu and cold season. It provides you with additional immune support to fight off bugs others may be passing around.
2 thoughts
Spencer Barry
Definetly going to try this in the morning before I work out!
Casandra Rosario
let us know how it came out!