This smoothie contains all the health benefits of Kefir (see blog post) as well as the blueberries being a great source of polyphenols. Polyphenols help to reduce inflammation and oxidation in the gut which has systemic health effects. Polyphenols are also loved by our gut microbes. The more polyphenols we give our gut, the more our good bugs thrive. They also regulate the intestinal tight junctions which helps to reduce “leaky gut”.
The nuts and seeds included are nutrient powerhouses. If we think about how an entire tree can grow from a tiny seed, this can help put into perspective how nutrient dense these foods are. In this recipe the nuts and seeds provide us with some magnesium, calcium, zinc, manganese, potassium, iron and selenium.
Kefir Smoothie recipe - Serves 1
1 cup dairy Kefir
½-1 banana (extra nice if pre-frozen)
1/2 cup Frozen blueberries or frozen berries of choice
1T Pumpkin seeds
1T Sunflower seeds
1T Raw Cashew nuts
Water to desired consistency if you are wanting a more runny smoothie
Add all ingredients into a blender and blend to desired consistency. Serve and enjoy.
*Tip: You could also put this into ice-block moulds to enjoy as a frozen treat. This would be great for an after school snack!