This is my FAVOURITE beast of a smoothie. I try to mix ingredients up to help maximise nutrient diversity and avoid getting bored (or my body becoming intolerant – Hashi crew, you understand!) but this one is a great morning go-to, or power-pack for when you need a boost.
I’ve added a few notes on the benefits of each ingredient, particularly for those of us with autoimmunity and/or thyroid conditions. Get blending and feel the green goodness soak into your cells!
- Pea protein
- Chia seeds
- Almond, macadamia or pea milk
- Frozen blueberries
- Carrot
- Avo
- Beetroot
- Celery
- Cucumber
- Spirulina
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Maca root powder
- Cacao
Pea protein
I choose pea protein as a base because it’s one of the least allergenic types of protein and it’s pretty flavourless in a smoothie. I also use hemp sometimes but it’s got a bit more of an acquired taste! It’s important to get adequate protein, especially in the morning, so this can be a good way to get some extra protein in – especially helpful if you don’t eat eggs, meat, etc.
Chia seeds
I add chia seeds for some extra protein, fibre, omega 3s, antioxidants and their impressive nutrient profile. If you have a thyroid condition and can tolerate seeds, I find them a really handy source of micronutrients which help address common deficiencies. These seeds keep you energised and full, which is why they make a great addition to your morning smoothie.
Nut milk
I don’t consume dairy, so like to mix up my nut milks to create different creamy flavours in smoothies. Mixing it up also means that you’re getting different nutrients into your body each time.
Frozen blueberries
Frozen blueberries make the smoothie a little more refreshing without making it so cold that it dampens your digestive fire – very important, especially early in the morning and in the eyes of Ayurveda. This is the only fruit I add because I like my smoothies to be mostly veggie-based to keep the sugar low and health benefits high.
Carrot
Carrots are high in vitamin A, vitamin C and beta-carotene, as well as having antibacterial abilities which protect us against infection and boost the immune system.
Avocado
Avocados add that bit of healthy, anti-inflammatory fat to keep you full and balance the “meal”. I usually add 1/4. They make the smoothie creamy and pack 20 different vitamins and minerals.
Beetroot
Beetroot is a goodie because it adds some colour and helps you avoid the grey/green looking sludge effect! Beets support methylation, which makes them really helpful for people who can’t detox properly (very common amongst people with Hashis – look up MTHFR mutations if you’re interested). They have an impressive nutrient profile, help lower blood pressure, support digestion and fight inflammation.
Celery
Have you heard of the Medical Medium? If not, I highly recommend his book “Thyroid Healing”, amongst others. He’s the guy who made celery juice famous. This antioxidant-rich vegetable is touted as being a miracle cure for many ailments and lots of people find it helps with digestion, bloating, acne, gut healing, and more. It’s proven to be a great source of vitamin K, C, potassium, folate, manganese, riboflavin, magnesium and vitamin B6, as well as being SUPER hydrating and full of electrolytes.
Cucumber
Cucumber is also very hydrating and full of fibre. It’s said to help with managing stress and anxiety because of the range of B vitamins. Talking of the Medical Medium, he also recommends cucumber for healing thyroid conditions and symptoms because it supports the lymphatic system.
Spirulina
Spirulina is a natural “algae” powder that is a wonderful booster for those of us with Hashis or restricted diets (AIP/intolerances, etc) because it is high in protein, essential amino acids, calcium and highly absorbable iron (helpful if you don’t eat meat or dairy!), B vitamins and antioxidants. It helps your body detox heavy metals, boosts your immune system and is often described as the most nutrient dense food on the planet!
Turmeric and ginger
Turmeric and ginger have many amazing properties, but I mainly eat them because they are powerfully anti-inflammatory, help with detox, support digestion and have been found to have antibacterial/antiviral activity. Yum.
Maca
Maca root powder can help increase energy levels, vitality and endurance. This makes it a perfect addition to a morning or pre-workout smoothie!
Cacao
Cacao is a superfood! What better excuse do you need to eat chocolate?! It is high in iron, antioxidants, magnesium and calcium. It also helps boost your mood.
Well, I bet you’ve got more energy just from reading that laundry list of epicness! Enjoy my lovelies, and let me know if you’ve got any goodies I should try :).
