Super Food - Maca and Okara smoothie

Here is a simple but nutritionally complex meal in a glass, it will kick start your day with lots of energy and immune boosting nutrients.

Remember the soy milk we made last time? I did say to keep the pulp! well, here is one recipe for you to use some of it up in...
Since then, I've actually used it in soups, bread and even muffins!

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

The Low Down:
All the components of this drink have health boosting properties...

Pineapple is a fantastic fruit with properties shown to reduce inflammation, by modifying the body's inflammatory response.  It increases tissue repair and alleviates fluid retention which are all part of the inflammatory cascade. This makes it helpful  for example in arthritis and gout. Pineapples also contain digestive enzymes known as bromelain, this makes it perfect for those with dyspepsia. It is also said to help prevent blood clots and relieves angina. 

Blueberries are a powerful antioxidant, not only that, they also have antibacterial properties within the intestine, and can also promote the healing of gastric ulcers. The anthocyanosides, glycosides and bioflavonoids makes this berry truly worth its weight in gold. These substances enhance circulation, reduces oxidative stress, have anticancer properties, and strengthen capillaries. Which is another reason blueberries are great for the eyesight and decrease the chance of blood clot formation. 

Bananas are a great source of the electrolytes potassium and magnesium and play an essential role in nerve function, they also contain an *essential amino acid known as tryptophan *(which means we don't make it, it is only attainable through the diet). It is used by the body to make B3 or niacin, which is important for digestion, skin and nerves, and a chemical called serotonin. This chemical plays a large role in our mood and can help create feelings of relaxation and well-being. 

Maca is a peruvian root, with properties said to enhance energy and are great for balancing female hormones. This root is also known as Peruvian ginseng, in that the properties are similar. It will also aid in strengthening the body's ability to maintain stamina and endurance.

Okara is the thrash, or pulp that remains after making soy milk or tofu, it is full of nutrients and should not be discarded. For one it contains more calcium, potassium, B6 and magnesium, protein and fibre than the milk it self and it's great for fortifying meals.

Basil is not only good for adding fragrance to your meals, in it's raw state as used here, it is great for  the nervous system, and helpful for anxiety, insomnia or mental fatigue, it also aids in reducing abdominal cramps and intestinal infections. 



Told you this drink would pack a punch!

Now let's get started....

Super Food - Maca and Okara smoothie

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

Ingredients

• 1 large slice pineapple
• 1 handful blueberries
• 1 tablespoon maca powder
• 2 frozen banana
• 100 ml soy milk/any type of milk you normally use
• 2 tablespoon okara powder (or other protein powder)
• 1 stem basil

#As with all recipes on this blog unless otherwise stated they are my own; be kind enough to, link back to original, make, share and highlight - happy sharing #


Preparation

Wash and drain the blueberries and basil and set aside, in the meantime add the maca powder and okara in a blender and blend till fine.

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

Next peel the pineapple if it is not already prepared and cut in chunks, put this in the blender with the blueberries and maca and okara powder

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

Add the basil and bananas...

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

Next, pour in the soy milk

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

blend till smooth...

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

Prepare your glass and slowly pour the mixture in, unlike me too eager to drink it I made a mess.

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

Done!


Click the link if you haven't seen me on BBC talking about food 

 Bon Appétit!!

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

Top with blueberries and pineapple if you have some leftover, drink and enjoy!!

Till next time, EAT mindfully, DRINK responsibly, and EXERCISE your mind and body!!!

All rights to images reserved  copyrights Alicia Lewis @ KitchenTakeovers

***Disclaimer: Any of the information within this blog post and others on this site is for information and educational purposes only and is NOT intended to be taken as diagnosis, treatment, cure or  to prevent any disease. Any reader concerned about his or her health is advised to seek medical advice from their GP or relevant medical professional***