Smoothies, Spice & Everything Nice

Smoothies are one of my family’s favorite breakfast meals that we make together. There are so many combinations to choose from, they’re fun and they taste delicious! Although there are so many different options to choose from, it is easy to get in a rut of making the same combinations. One way to jazz up your next smoothie creation is by adding spices to the mix. Spices add a boost of flavor without adding in extra calories, added sugar or unhealthy fats. An even better reason to add in spices is the health benefits such as blood sugar control, antioxidants and anti-inflammation. Let’s talk about a few of my favorites.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the world’s most popular spices. For those with diabetes, it has been shown to assist with blood sugar control. It may also provide heart-healthy benefits such as reducing high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Pairs well with: blueberries, bananas, apricots, oatmeal, yogurt, cloves, cumin, ginger, nutmeg and turmeric

Cinnamon, Banana & Peanut Butter Smoothie
1 cup milk of choice, 1 large banana, 2 Tbsp peanut butter, ½ tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp honey, 3 large ice cubes

Cardamom

Cardamom originates from India and has a warm, floral-like flavor. It provides antioxidants that help to protect our brain cells from damage.  This spice has been shown to normalize blood pressure and lowers the risk for stroke.

Pairs well with: oranges, pears, sweet potatoes, root vegetables, yogurt, cinnamon, cloves, cumin and ginger

Blueberries, Pear & Cardamom Smoothie
1 cup milk of choice, 1 frozen banana, ½ cup blueberries, ½ cup pears, 2 Tbsp almond butter, ½ tsp cardamom powder

Ginger

Ginger is naturally anti-inflammatory. It improves digestion and is a good treatment for an upset stomach.

Pairs well with: passion fruit, pears, pineapple, mango, basil, cilantro, coconut, lime, lemongrass, mint, turmeric

Carrot, Ginger & Turmeric Smoothie
1 cup milk of choice, 1 large ripe banana, 1 cup pineapple, ½ tbsp fresh ginger, ¼ tsp ground turmeric, ½ cup carrot juice, 1 Tbsp lemon juice

Turmeric

Turmeric is best known in Indian curry dishes, but it has become known as a superfood. It has been shown to help prevent cancer and heart disease. It is a natural anti-inflammatory for the brain that has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. This spice helps to reduce pain and swelling in people with arthritis.

Pairs well with: carrots, root vegetables, spinach, cilantro, coconut milk, coriander, cumin, fennel, ginger, lemongrass

Green Turmeric Smoothie
1 cup water, 1 packed cup of spinach, 1 orange peeled, ½ frozen banana, ¼ cup coconut milk, 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, ½ tsp ground turmeric