Even though I rarely get sick any more 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 start ignoring common sense rules like getting enough sleep, keeping hydrated, and not overextending myself both personally and professionally. I know I’m not alone. It’s endemic of modern life. Eventually it does catch up with me and I find myself in a “droop”; my name for a not-tired-but-not-energetic, muddle-my-way-through-the-day feeling. Time to make a beeline for one of my favorite smoothies for some pure sunshine in a glass.
Smoothies and shakes are a delicious way to add a whole slew of flavors and nutrients into your life. They satisfy you in a hurry, help aid in weight loss, and are easy to make and carry Blueberry Bedazzler. They also make great meal replacements. I can’t say enough about fresh smoothies which are a huge part of my life. They really do bring a ray of sunshine no matter what the weather is like outside.
Speaking of colors, studies have shown that there’s a direct link between colors and moods. That’s certainly true for me. Give me sunshine and brightness and watch my mood improve even more. I’m usually pretty happy anyway, but just looking at the gorgeous color of this drink instantly lifts me out of my doldrums. And with each sip I feel instantly hydrated and nourished. The feel-good ingredients include a good dose of vitamin C and beta-carotene; two especially mood elevating vitamins.
Oranges provides high levels of vitamin C, electrolytes, anti-inflammatories (especially herperidin) and has 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 — 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. I hope you enjoy it. I’ll be drinking mine to your radiant good health.
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.
