Spirulina Powder– If you’re trying Spirulina Powder for the first time, let me tell you, the benefits outweigh the taste. That’s important to note, because it’s fishy. The good news is you can easily hide it in a smoothie, especially if you put a banana in your smoothie (they’re the ultimate neutralizer). It’s high in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, can lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, fight cancer cells, help allergy symptoms, and more. It’s really incredible. I’m sorry I started with this one, but it packs such a punch that I think every pantry should have some!
Chlorella Tablets– Taking Chlorella in tablet form is an easy way to get antioxidants in your diet, aid your digestive system, and give your immune system a high five. It’s also a huge way to help your body detox the things you come in contact with throughout your lifetime, like heavy metals and toxins in the food supply. There is evidence that chlorella helps your respiratory system, and aids in blood sugar control, among many other things. Don’t let the word detox fool you, this will not have you running to the bathroom. In fact, I suggest you drink plenty of water with it as it helps bind toxins to be removed. Lowering our toxic burden is something we all need to be aware of and actively do each day (fresh air, lots of water, cut back on the personal care products we’re using, etc).
Bone Broth Powder– This is great for gut health, anti-inflammatory, soothes sore joints, etc. The organic bone broth with turmeric that I like from Thrive Market is no longer available, so I am on the hunt for another one. I will update here if I find one I like.
Camu Camu Powder– 8 months ago I had no idea what this was, and now I’m scooping it into my smoothies several times a week. It’s a tart berry that I like to purchase in powder form. It is a powerful superfood that is HIGH in Vitamin C which helps build the immune system. Like the others, it is high in antioxidants, fights inflammation, helps regulate blood sugar, and according to one research paper I read, it may be antimicrobial as well.
Cocoa Powder– Who doesn’t love chocolate? I know, I know, there are a few of you out there that don’t. Just give it a shot though! Did you know cocoa powder is actually healthy? Note, there is a HUMONGOUS difference between a chocolate candy bar filled with sugar, and the cocoa powder your grandmother used to bake with. Anyone else ever take a tiny taste of the powder as a child (um, or adult) only to be terribly disappointed by how bitter it was? We know now that in the food world bitter is better! This wins a spot on my list because it is great for lowering blood pressure, is antioxidant-rich, aids in blood circulation, it increases brain function, improves lung function, and is antibacterial.
Ginger– Ginger is something I’ve added to my smoothies to help with nausea. Ginger has been used for years as a natural medicine because it is so effective at aiding in a variety of things. It’s good for the digestive system, fights colds and infections, lowers insulin levels, may help fight against osteoarthritis, helps with menstrual cramping, improves brain function, and protects against Alzheimer’s.
I simply put a teaspoon to a tablespoon (depending on what it is) of each of these in my daily smoothie to show my body that I care about how it functions and that I want it to be well. I blend it all up with fruit & water, rather than a processed milk.
The frozen fruits I often add to my smoothie include Aronia Berries (we have a wonderful place to pick these locally), Wild Blueberries, Strawberries, Avocado (yes you can get it already diced and frozen), and almost always a Banana (to drown out any strong flavors.
Leafy greens are great in smoothies as well.
No matter what I do to help aid my body, I know that ultimately God is in control. I pray over my choices and encourage you to do the same. If you aren’t able to do all of these, just start with one. If you can’t start with one right now, start increasing the amount of water you are drinking each day. I think you will notice a difference in your digestive system, energy level, and skin from that simple step alone.
I do not take health for granted and you shouldn’t either. With the increase in diseases and the decline in food education and natural farming, this is not a time to “treat ourselves” on a regular basis. You may not be able to control many external factors in the world right now, but you can control what’s on the end of your fork, or in your smoothie glass.
PS. What do you think of this list? What are you willing to try?
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