It’s February! The second month of the new year. How are you faring with your "resolutions" and dedicated decisions to make this year healthier and happier? It is easy to lose momentum and steam as January passes and the days seem to get colder and snowier. Birthdays and celebrations and any excuse to indulge start to reappear, and rich and decadent comfort food seems like the only way to keep warm. It is essential to keep in mind that the small positive shifts that you make over time have major long-term ramifications. Consider every meal a Monday morning - an opportunity to start fresh and get back on the healthy eating track. Focus on what you have already changed and continue to set realistic goals for yourself.
You may have one, two, three, ten slip-ups, but that shouldn’t mean that you mudslide your whole day or week. So, you had a piece of cake at the office birthday party or some French Fries at lunch. Do not let that send you down a slippery slope of pour choices and missed workouts. Continue to set your intentions on being healthier, happier, and stronger in 2015, and do not let a few indulgences derail your success.
Here is a cheery smoothie bursting to the brim with immune boosting-feel good ingredients that will help sustain your motivation through February and beyond.
Turmeric Mango Smoothie
Makes 2 large or 4 small servings
- 2 cups frozen mango, cubed
- 1 cup frozen or fresh pineapple, chopped
- ¾ cup filtered room temperature water
- 5 oz plain Greek, Icelandic, or coconut yogurt
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- optional garnishes: goji berries, toasted unsweetened coconut flakes, raw hemp seeds
In a blender, combine all of the ingredients until well blended and smooth. Top with garnishes, if you wish.
What is so special about this smoothie? It is loaded with some serious powerhouse nutrients:
Turmeric- This spice has powerful anti-inflammatory action which is mainly attributed to curcumin, the compound in turmeric most cited for its medicinal potency. Turmeric can be found in powder or in root form. It is strongly suggested that turmeric is linked to preventing and treating Alzheimer’s disease, assisting with the relief of symptoms from arthritis, and aiding in the prevention of certain cancers. Turmeric can also be of benefit in treating digestive problems and reducing the body’s inflammatory response. Turmeric's medicinal properties work best when paired with black pepper.
Cinnamon- Warm and fragrant, this spice is the perfect seasoning for winter. Cinnamon can be found in stick or in powdered form and has shown a strong positive correlation in helping with blood sugar control, which may significantly help individuals with diabetes. Cinnamon can also reduce stress and inflammation. It is an easy spice to add to oatmeal, sweet potatoes, or peanut butter and toast.
Mango- This tropical fruit is a rich source of vitamin A, an important vitamin linked to eye health and bone growth. Mangos also have a hearty amount of fiber, which helps move things along in your gut.
Pineapple- This fruit is bursting to the brim with immune boosting Vitamin C. This Vitamin is an antioxidant which prevents cellular damage to the body and also help with immune function - extra essential in these dark and cold months.
Cheer up and get moving with this hearty and happy smoothie!
