Pineapple and Beet Powerhouse Smoothie
Nothing tastes better to me after a run or workout than a smoothie, and this pineapple and beet powerhouse smoothie is one of my new favorites.
The earthy flavor of the beet root pairs well with the pineapple, and don’t you just love the color? Who said green smoothies actually need to be green?
In addition to being rich in vitamin C, pineapple is a great source of manganese, thiamin and the anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain. Bromelain helps to speed muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and swelling, and is being researched as an agent in treating malignant cancer as well.
Beets are high in fiber and are rich in a number of important nutrients including vitamin C, potassium, folate, manganese and betaine. Recent studies have shown that beets help to fight inflammation, boost immunity, support detoxification, boost stamina, lower blood pressure, protect against free radicals and fight cancer.
Including the beet greens in this smoothie means you’re also getting a rich supply of vitamin A, calcium, protein and iron. In fact, beet greens contain more iron than spinach. Beet greens have been shown to boost immunity, strengthen bones and fight Alzheimer’s disease.
Finally, the nitrates in beets and beet greens have been shown to improve athletic performance, making this a great smoothie to drink before exercise as well.
Give this recipe a try before or after your next workout and let me know what you think!
Ingredients
- 1 cup filtered water
- 1 large handful of beet greens
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1 cup frozen pineapple
- 1 small beet root (peeled and cut in quarters)
- 3 tablespoons hemp seeds
- 1 scoop Vanilla Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vegan Protein Powder (or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon raw maca (optional)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a high speed blender in the order listed and blend until smooth and creamy.
I’m a little uneducated in this department, but working on it! Is maca a powder? Do you purchase online or find locally? Thank you!
Great question! That is exactly what I love about health and nutrition … there is something new to be learned every day!
Maca is a root vegetable from the radish family, and is available in either powder or capsule form. It has been shown to balance hormones, boost fertility, improve skin and hair health, and increase energy. I find that it has a bitter taste on its own, but it generally blends well in smoothies, especially those with a cacao (chocolate) base.
I like Earth Circle Organics Maca Powder, which I purchase from Thrive Market. If you’re not already a member, you can get a free 30 day trial membership and save 25% off your first order by using this link: http://thrv.me/5BDGcG. I’ve found that they have the best prices on almost all of the items I stock in my pantry.
If you give it a try, let me know what you think!