Five Ways that Drinking Smoothies Helps Balance Hormones

One great thing about warmer weather is that it can inspire us to be more adventurous with our food and drink choices, especially cool refreshing, and nutrient-dense drinks for those of us who are on the go. 
Smoothies are a great way to pack in nutrients, balance blood sugar, balance hormones and are often used for those who aren’t that hungry for breakfast or don’t have much time to make breakfast. 

Here are Five Ways that Drinking Smoothies Helps Balance Hormones:

1. They can pack more nutrients into your diet like healthy fats, which balances hormones and curbs cravings. Vegetables that are full of fiber; which helps you to stay full longer, flush out toxins, and help you poop. And when you add protein, you add an important ingredient that helps you feel full longer.
2. They support a healthy immune system.
4. They help to reduce unhealthy cravings by providing the nutrients you need.
5. They restore healthy gut bacteria.

Not sure where to begin? Try this recipe! 

INGREDIENTS - 

1/3 cup frozen blueberries
2 big handfuls of kale (Lacinato kale or Baby kale work best if you don’t have a strong blender, like a Vitamix).

2 Tbsp ground flax seeds (*optional)
1/4 cup full fat plain Greek yogurt (if you can tolerate dairy) or coconut yogurt. Regardless of which type you choose, be sure to check how much-added sugar is in your yogurt.
4 Tbsp hemp hearts (**Please avoid all seeds if you have Diverticulosis or Diverticulitis)
1/2 cup organic unsweetened nut milk, or coconut milk 
Water to thin, as needed
Ice to your taste 

Optional additions:
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 inch knob of fresh ginger
1 capsule or 1 tsp ashwagandha (*If you are pregnant or taking any other medications, please speak to your ND about this herb before adding it to your routine.)

DIRECTIONS -

Add all ingredients into a high-powered blender.  
Blend for 30-60 seconds.
Serves 2-3 people.

Serve and enjoy.

Resource: Dr. Kathleen Mahanna, ND

Be sure to consult your primary care physician before making any drastic changes to your diet, and feel free to reach out to myself or my team if you have any questions!

Be well,

Dr. Erika Horowitz and Team