There are times when I get a bit too comfortable in my healthy skin and start taking it for granted. If I’m not mindful, I can easily start ignoring common sense protocol like getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and not overextending myself both personally and professionally and just get lazy in my self-care. I know I’m not alone. It’s endemic of modern life. We have so much to focus on that we often lose sight of our own personal needs. When I do find myself in a “droop” I head for my “happy smoothie”, a delicious concoction I created for just such occasions; pure sunshine in a glass.
Smoothies and shakes are my go-to everyday foods; Needless to say they’re a big part of my life. And I never get tired of them. The versatility, ease, and convenience makes smoothies an incomparable “fast food” and nutritional powerhouse. Smoothies satisfy on the run, aid in weight loss, and make great meal replacements. Blueberry Bedazzler. I can’t say enough about them because they literally changed my life.
One reason I love smoothies so much is the endless variety of color in the ingredients. Studies have shown that there’s a direct link between colors and moods. Bright colors like orange and yellow tend to generate a happy outgoing attitude and uplift your mood. And in my droopy state that’s exactly what I needed; sunshine, hydration, and positive thoughts. I included oranges and apricots for extra doses vitamin C and beta-carotene, two especially mood elevating vitamins. Beta-Carotene Cocktail
Oranges provides high levels of vitamin C, electrolytes, anti-inflammatories (especially herperidin) and have antioxidant properties that can prevent disease.
One orange supplies a full days vitamin C requirement.
The skin of an orange is rich in pectin (a type of soluble fibre) and flavonoids, which help alleviate cold symptoms.
Apricots (especially dried apricots) are high in potassium, beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, and fiber.
One apricot contains only 17 calories.
To select ripe apricots, look for fruit with a rich, orange color — not pale yellow or green — and that’s a little soft to the touch.
Ginger, sweet tropical fruits like mango and orange, super potent apricots, and healing spices; this nourishing and delicious drink can take the gloom out of any day and put a spark into any situation. I’ll be drinking to your radiant good health. I hope you enjoy it.
This beverage is dairy and nut-free, and serves 2 – 4 persons.
Sunshine Nutrient Smoothie
You can substitute the fresh apricots with 3 or 4 dried apricots. Make sure they are soft enough to blend. If not, soak until soft then drain before using.
- 2 cups fresh orange juice
- 2 cups chopped fresh mango
- 2 fresh apricots, pits removed
- 1 banana (optional)
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled or ½ tsp ground ginger
- pinch of ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground paprika
- 1/4 – 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- goji berries for garnish (optional)
- splash of lemon for garnish (optional)
- Add all ingredients except garnish to a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Garnish and savor each healing sip.
- Yields about 4 cups.
- Can be stored refrigerated up to 3 days.
