What’s in your smoothie

Cocao tree beans, once roasted and grounded is called cocoa, which is used to make chocolate. It’s rich concentration of antioxidants, minerals, and beneficial compounds, which have been associated with various health benefits including improved heart health, brain function, and mood.

Mood enhancement: Rich in brain neurotransmitter phenylethylamine (PEA), which is associated with feelings of pleasure and happiness. Additionally, cacao contains small amounts of caffeine and theobromine, which can provide mild stimulant effects and improve alertness.

Antioxidant: Contain a class of antioxidants called flavonoids, specifically flavanols which protect the body against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and contribute to various diseases. Flavanols are linked to potential cardiovascular benefits and may help reduce inflammation.

Cardiovascular health: Regular consumption of cacao has been associated with lower blood pressure, improved blood flow, and reduced risk of heart disease. These benefits are more prominent with raw, unprocessed cacao rather than heavily processed chocolate products.

Cognitive benefits: Favanols can enhance blood flow to the brain, which could potentially improve memory, attention, and overall cognitive performance.

Turmeric is a common spice that comes from the root of Curcuma longa. It’s active ingredient, curcumin, in higher doses is known to have many health benefits.

Anti-inflammatory: Curcumin has been studied for its potent anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s, so consuming turmeric may help combat inflammation.

Antioxidant: Possesses antioxidant properties, which means it can neutralize harmful free radicals in the body contributing to oxidative stress, a process implicated in aging and the development of diseases.

Potential cancer-fighting properties: Curcumin may have anticancer properties showing to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and interfere with various molecular pathways involved in cancer development.

Digestive health: Used in complimentary medicine for digestive disorders to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, gas and stimulate the production of bile to aid in fat digestion.

Potential brain health benefits: Curcumin may cross the blood-brain barrier and exhibit neuroprotective effects that could help in the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Baobab powder comes from the fruit of the baobab tree, which has been revered throughout Africa as “the Tree of Life” for centuries. It is particularly rich in vitamin C, containing significantly higher levels than many other fruits (5 times higher by weight than an orange).

Antioxidant: Packed with flavonoids, polyphenols to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Exceptionally rich in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system, collagen production, and antioxidant protection.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Excellent source of dietary fiber, including soluble and insoluble forms. Fiber promotes digestive health, regulates bowel movements, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Electrolyte Balance: Essential minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron play vital roles in maintaining bone health, muscle function, electrolyte balance, and oxygen transport in the body.

Prebiotic properties: Acts as food for beneficial gut bacteria for a healthy gut microbiome to improve digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and better mental health.

Green matcha is a powdered form of specially grown and processed green tea leaves with health benefits. Tea leaves used for matcha are shade-grown, which enhances their vibrant green color and increases the production of chlorophyll and amino acids. Matcha is made from ground whole tea leaves, which means you consume the entire leaf and all its nutrients.

Enhance Cognitive Function: The combination of slow release of caffeine has been found to have positive effects on cognitive function, including improved focus, attention, and mental clarity.

Calm Energy: L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and a sense of calm without causing drowsiness helps to gently boost energy compared to ups and downs of coffee.

Boosts Metabolism: EGCG has been studied for its potential to enhance metabolism by increasing calorie burn and fat oxidation.

Antioxidant: Packed with antioxidants called catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which help protect the body against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases.

Detoxification: High in chlorophyll content, which gives matcha it’s green colour, is known to help eliminate harmful toxins from the body.

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is packed with essential nutrients which help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and enhance the production of neurotransmitters crucial for brain function. Studies suggest that spirulina supplementation may improve memory, focus, and overall mental performance.

Neuroprotective and cognitive enhancing effects: Some studies suggest it can support neurogenesis, the growth of new neurons, meaning it can help protect nerve cells in the brain from damage by stimulating the production of growth factors in the brain which can have positive effects on improved cognitive performance and reduced mental fatigue.

Antioxidant: Rich in phycocyanin, beta-carotene, and vitamin E, these nutrients help protect the brain from oxidative stress caused by free radicals and may help prevent age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.

Anti-inflammatory: Rich in phycocyanin and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), they help to protect against neurodegenerative diseases.

Moringa leaves are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, potassium, iron, and protein and often used in regions with limited access to nutrient-rich foods as a dietary supplement to address nutritional deficiencies.

Antioxidant: Contains high levels of antioxidants, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Anti-Inflammatory: Rich in isothiocyanates and flavonoids may help alleviate inflammation-related conditions, such as arthritis and eczema.

Cardiometabolic health: Contains various bioactive plant sterol compounds, quercetin, kaempferol, and chlorogenic acid which have been associated with reduced blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels.

Ginger root originates from a flowering plant originating in Southeast Asia. It has a long history of use in both traditional and alternative medicine, thanks to is natural oil, gingerol, supporting cold and flu symptoms and active as a pain modulator.

Anti-inflammatory: Gingerol helps to reduce chronic inflammation is associated with various health conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

Digestive health: Has been traditionally used to alleviate digestive issues such as nausea, indigestion, and bloating, stimulate digestion, reduce inflammation in the gut.

Antioxidant: Ginger contains antioxidants that can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

Immune-boosting properties Can stimulate immune cell activity and provide antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria and viruses and potentially inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells.

Weight management: Can increase metabolism and reducing appetite.

Blood sugar regulation: May help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.

Pumpkins are a fall season favorite, and their seeds are a wonderful snack food.

Antioxidants: Pumpkin seeds contain various antioxidants, including carotenoids and vitamin E. Antioxidants help protect the body against oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic diseases and aging.

Rejuvenation and repair: A significant amount of plant-based protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle health, and maintaining a healthy immune system.

Anti-inflammatory: contain unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body.

Heart health: The combination of all the nutrients in pumpkin seeds may help promote heart health. by lowering LDL cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of high blood pressure.

Blood Sugar Regulation: May have a positive impact on blood sugar control because they are low in carbohydrates and rich in fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Prostate health: Contain compounds like phytosterols and zinc, which may help reduce the risk of prostate enlargement and support overall prostate function.

Sea buckthorn berries are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins (such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K), minerals (such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium), and antioxidants (such as flavonoids and carotenoids) and its seed oils are rich in a spectrum of omega fatty acids.

Anti-inflammatory: Uniquely contains a combination of omega-3, -6, -7, and -9 fatty acids which are crucial for maintaining good heart health, supporting brain function, and promoting healthy skin.

Antioxidant and Immune Support: Rich in vitamin C, E, K and flavonoids and carotenoids, which protect the body against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and contribute to premature aging and chronic diseases and protect against infections and diseases.

Digestive Health Support: Rich in dietary fibre to promote regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support overall gut health.

These small, red berries also known as wolfberries, have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and are highly valued for their potential health benefits because of their powerful antioxidants, B vitamins, iron, zinc, selenium, and various other minerals.

Antioxidant: A group of compounds called polysaccharides (carbohydrate molecule also called a glycan) along with Vitamins A, C, and E help neutralize harmful free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases and aging.

Immune system support: Polysaccharides found in goji berries may improve immune response and boost the body’s defense against infections and diseases.

Eye health: a rich source of carotenoids, including beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other eye-related conditions.

Anti-inflammatory: anthocyanin reduces the chronic diseases caused by inflammatory

Acai berry is a small, dark purple fruit native to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil rich with nutrients and essential fatty acids including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

Antioxidant: Loaded with anthocyanins which protect the body against oxidative stress caused by harmful free radicals, which can contribute to premature aging, promoting a healthy complexion.

Heart health benefits: Essential fats may help lower levels of cholesterol.

Anti-Inflammatory: Essential fatty acids can reduce chronic inflammation which has been linked to various health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and certain types of cancer.

Digestive support: A good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system and contributes to feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.

Haskap berries, also known as honeyberries are the new unknown superfood.

Antioxidant: Honeyberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, and vitamin C (4 times more than blueberries) which help protect the body against oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Anti-Inflammatory: Some varieties are known to have a relatively high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.

Fiber: These berries contain dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels and associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and improved weight management.

Chia seeds are the edible seeds of a flowering plant in the mint family native to central and southern Mexico. They are packed with essential nutrients such as fiber, protein, healthy fats, vitamins (such as thiamine and niacin), and minerals (including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium). They are particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart, brain and joint health.

Anti-inflammatory: Omega-3 fatty acids found in chia seeds are one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Omega-3s are essential fats that support brain health, reduce inflammation, and may lower the risk of heart disease.

Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants they help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals by fighting oxidative stress.

Blood Sugar Regulation: High fibre content stabilizes blood sugar levels by slowing down digestion and the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose. This can be beneficial for individuals with heart disease or diabetes who are aiming to better manage their cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Hydration and Weight Loss: When exposed to liquid, chia seeds form a gel-like substance due to their high water-absorbing capacity. This property can help with hydration and contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.

Hemp seeds are the seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa, the same species as cannabis (marijuana) but a different variety.

Rejuvenation and repair: One of the few plant-based sources that contain all nine essential amino acids essential for muscle repair, immune function, hormone production and energy production and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and zinc which are essential for immune function, bone health, and maintaining healthy skin and energy.

Anti-inflammatory: Abundant in essential fatty acids, specifically omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in optimal balance (3:1) which critical brain health, heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall well-being.

Digestive health: A good source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble which aids in digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and can help regulate blood sugar levels. It also provides a feeling of fullness, which can assist in weight management.

Antioxidant: high in vitamin E and phenolic acids, which help protect the body against oxidative stress caused by free radicals, reducing premature aging and cellular damage.

Oats are the edible seeds of oat grass, a type of cereal grain from the Poaceae grass family of plants. They are gluten-free, unless they are contaminated during packaging.

Metabolic health: Known for its high fiber content, especially a soluble fiber called beta-glucan. Fiber aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes satiety, and supports heart health by lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) and improving HDL (good cholesterol).

Antioxidants: Avenanthramides, which are unique to oats may help protect against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Blood sugar and weight management: As a complex carbohydrate with lots of fiber, oatmeal provides a slow and steady release of energy, helping to keep you full and satisfied for longer periods, maintain stable blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity which in tern helps with weight loss.