Boosting your immune system, especially during cold and flu season, is an important factor in preventing disease. Sure, stocking up on an effective homeopathic remedy for cough and cold is a good idea, but do not underestimate the value of healthy foods to strengthen your ability to fight illness. One of the easiest ways to get loads of vitamin C and other essential nutrients is by drinking smoothies. Give these three smoothie recipes a try to keep your immune system in tip-top shape.
A Smoothie With Superpowers
Is there anything a green smoothie cannot do? Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this recipe can get you going in the morning or pick you up any time of day. Here is what you need:
- 1 cup of kale and/or spinach, chopped
- 1 ½ cup of frozen kiwi, pineapple, and mango chunks
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 ½ cup almond or other non-dairy milk alternative
Blend the greens with the almond milk until pureed. Add the fruit, lemon juice, and ginger, blending well. This recipe serves two people. If your fruit is not frozen, add four or five ice cubes for a frosty consistency. This green smoothie, much like homeopathic flu prevention meds for adults, can help your body fight off viruses without the need for prescription medication.
A Freshness Overload Smoothie
This immune booster is packed with fruits and veggies for a tangy, bright combination to wake up your senses. Gather these ingredients:
- 1-2 cups non-dairy milk substitute
- 1 orange, peeled, deseeded, and sectioned (replace with grapefruit if you like)
- ¾ cup cooked and peeled sweet potato
- ½ cup cauliflower rice
- 1 carrot
- ¾ cup frozen strawberries
- ¾ cup frozen mango chunks
- ½ frozen banana
For this recipe, add fruit, vegetables, and one cup liquid together, blending until smooth. If too thick, add ¼ cup of liquid at a time until the smoothie is to your desired consistency. Experiment with raw or cooked carrots and cauliflower to determine the texture you prefer. This recipe serves two people.
Purple Powered Smoothie
Not only does this smoothie gives you lots of antioxidants and vitamins, but it also has enough protein to satiate your hunger. This easy-to-make smoothie starts with these ingredients:
- 2 TBSP hemp hearts
- 1 TBSP chia seeds
- 1 large handful of fresh spinach
- ½ frozen banana
- ½ cup frozen blueberries
- ¼ cup coconut or other non-dairy yogurt
- 1 cup water
Blend the yogurt, spinach, hemp, chia, and fruits with ¼ cup of water. Continue to add water while blending, one ¼ cup at a time, until the smoothie is as thick as you want. If you do not have chia seeds, you may substitute one tablespoon of nut butter. This recipe serves one person.
These smoothie recipes are just a starting point; use them as a template to create your own unique blends and flavor combinations. With a smoothie every day or so, homeopathic over the counter medicine to prevent colds, and plenty of rest and exercise, you may make it all the way through cold and flu season feeling stronger and healthier than ever.
