Vitamin C + Maca Powder Immunity Boost Smoothie
The world is navigating through unprecedented times right now. While it's worrisome and unknown, it helps to remind ourselves that we're all in this together and we will pull through this! At our house, we're doing our best to stay informed and prepared, but not panicked. And we are of course staying home as much as possible. I've been feeling a bit under the weather which put me at home most of the week anyway, and my hubs works remote, so we've been cooped up together with Nina for days and days. I wouldn't have it any other way, honestly. I'm just thankful we're together, fairly healthy, and have just what we need. I hope you all are staying safe and are well. If you're an essential worker, know that we are grateful for you! For anyone looking for a trustworthy online news source, check out Jessica Yellin. Her news-not-noise-just-facts approach has helped me stay calm and informed, and she's my go-to during elections as well.
I couldn't think of a better time to load up on vitamin-rich foods that help combat elevated stress levels and give our immune systems a boost. I've had one-too-many quarantine snacks (not sorry), but I know when my body is craving something nourishing to balance it out. One of my favorite things to have on-hand for smoothies are the Sambazon Organic Superfruit Packs. My favs are the Pure Unsweetened Acai and the Acerola Tropical Immunity flavors.
I decided to try out the recipe on the back of the Sambazon package (with slight adjustments) as it had most of the ingredients I was looking to include in my smoothie. A refreshing blend of acerola cherry, pineapple, and banana, this superfood pack is dense in vitamin C. Vitamin C is said to protect the tissues in our body from oxidative stress, and therefore are important in preventing diseases. Because vitamin C best does its job when consumed regularly (hello world of water soluble vitamins), I plan to make one of these beauties every few days.
When it comes to smoothies, you need to add some form of liquid. In this case- we're using coconut water. Not only does it pair well with the tropical flavors, but coconut water is full of electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium, making it a great source of hydration. I used the VitaCoco brand, which also has added Vitamin C.
So, what's with the maca powder? Maca powder comes from the maca root, an adaptogen and superfood that is native to the Andes mountains in Peru. It is said to have many beneficial properties from enhancing libido, to boosting energy & reducing stress, to building up your immunity- thanks to phytochemicals known as glucosinolates. Phytochemicals are plant-derived compounds that may suppress the development of diseases. Science is fun :-) Maca powder has a nutty flavor and mixes seamlessly into smoothies. Although you don't particularly notice the taste in this recipe, the benefits are still there!
VITAMIN C + MACA POWDER IMMUNITY BOOST SMOOTHIE
Yield: ~ 1 3/4 C
Servings: 1
Ingredients:
1 pack of Acerola Tropical Immunity by Sambazon
2/3 C Coconut Water (use 1 C for thinner consistency)
1/2 C frozen pineapple
1/2 frozen banana
1 TSP organic maca powder
Directions:
Add ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Adjust ingredients as necessary. I added 2/3 C of coconut water for a thicker consistency. Top with coconut flakes and you're golden!