superfoods « Clairety

This smoothie is great to have any time you wish to enjoy but I always make it after a workout. Having liquid protein after a workout is essential is building and feeding your muscles. No, you will not look like a male bodybuilder with protein. Everyone needs protein. After a workout liquids are best to have because they get into your system and are broken down the quickest. It is important to have this protein within a window of 20-30 minutes after your workout. Why? Because in that time your muscles will readily accept carbohydrates and protein.

Recipe:

In a blender, crush 5 ice cubes.
Add 1/2 banana(frozen or fresh), 4-5 frozen strawberries, about 1/3 cup frozen blueberries, 1tbs flax seeds, 1tbs chia seeds, 1tbs maca powder, and one scoop of Perfect Fit (or any other vegan) protein
On top of all that, add a dash of chocolate or regular coconut water and a cup or more of almond milk, and blend
If the smoothie is very dry, add more almond milk or water

*A handful of spinach or kale can be added and other super foods can be replaced to your liking.

Perfect Fit protein can be purchased here: http://perfectfitprotein.com/

I am going to be starting a new series on my blog that will talk about superfood’s and a little bit about each food. A superfood is a food that fuels your body and has nutritious benefits. Sounds awesome right? Well it is! So, let’s get started and EAT UP!

Quinoa

Quinoa is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids.
It contains twice as much fiber then other grains. Fiber lowers cholesterol and glucose levels. It takes a longer time to chew than other foods because it makes you feel fuller for longer and is less “energy dense” which means it has fewer calories for the same volume of food.
Quinoa also contains iron which helps keep our red blood cells healthy. Iron also helps improve brain function.
Quinoa is rich in magnesium. Health benefits of magnesium include transmission of nerve impulses, body temperature regulation, detoxification, energy production, and the formation of healthy bones and teeth.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes contain vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, fiber, B vitamins, potassium and even iron.
Sweet Potato’s have a low Glycemic Index. The glycemic index of a food reflects the food’s effects on a person’s blood glucose level. It’s better for the body to slowly absorb any gluclose, sustain a moderate rise in sugar levels and experience a gradual return to the regular level. White potatoes have a high GI level so that is why it is better to have sweet potatoes.

Wheat Berries

Wheat berries are whole wheat kernels. They look like thick, short grains — similar to brown rice. When boiled, cooked wheat berries have a chewy bite and subtle nutty, earthy flavor.
Since the wheat kernel is left intact, virtually none of the nutrients are stripped away. A cup of cooked wheat berries has about 300 calories and is packed with fiber, protein and iron. Tasty sprouts are loaded with vitamin E, a cell-protecting antioxidant, and magnesium, which is good for healthy bones and muscles.