MOOD BOOSTING SMOOTHIE - 2 WAYS
Give your afternoon a positive injection with this mood boosting smoothie. If you’re limited on time this delicious snack can be whipped up in less than a minute. Got more time on your hands? Go for the smoothie bowl option - take time to decorate your bowl and indulge your creativity!
Studies have shown eating blueberries had result in improvements in mood. This is thought to be due to the high levels of flavonoids in the blueberries which enhance blood flow to areas of the brain that regulate emotion. The addition of banana, paired with the fibre from the flaxseed, will ensure the natural sugar is released slowly into your blood stream, stabilising blood sugar levels resulting in better mood control. Bananas are also rich in Vitamin B6 which helps to synthesise feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.
The greek yogurt add protein to the mix, keeping your fuller for longer (no need to get hangry), whilst supporting gut health with the addition of probiotics. It also makes for a richer, creamier smoothie - I mean what’s not to love.
Servings: 1 (either 1 glass or 1 bowl)
Time to create: Less than 5 minutes
Ingredients
50g Frozen blueberries
1/2 Banana
2 Dates (stones removed)
1 tbsp Greek yogurt (or vegan alternative)
1/2 tbsp Flaxseeds
1/2 tbsp Almond butter
150ml Almond milk
Smoothie bowl toppings (optional)
Granola
Remaining 1/2 banana sliced
Goji berries
Desiccated coconut
Cacao nibs
Method
Pop all smoothie ingredients in a blender, and blitz until smooth.
Either decant into a glass and enjoy or pour into a bowl and decorate with your choice of toppings.
Enjoy!
Top tip: If you’re going for the smoothie bowl option opt for frozen banana. This will result in a thicker smoothie - and the reduced likelihood that your toppings are going to sink!
