The Nutty Pumpkin Superfood Smoothie
The past couple of weeks I have been putting a lot more effort into including hormone balancing ingredients into what I eat after deciding to make the transition off of “the pill.” Some side effects of stopping the pill can be loss of your cycle, hair loss, hormonal acne, or unpredictable mood to name a few. I’ve been doing everything I can to naturally “detox” my body from nearly 12 years on the pill in an effort to minimize or hopefully completely eliminate any negative side effects.
A major part of this is eating in a way that supports the liver in detoxing. This includes plenty of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory foods, plenty of healthy fats, and fiber. I’ve also taken a few tests (though I want to do more precise ones like hormone panels as soon as I can) to recognize what hormones may be out of whack in my body. I’ve learned more about how to do this with the book “Beyond the Pill” and also “Woman Code.” Obviously, consult your doctor before making any changes in your lifestyle.
The liver detoxing aides and hormone balancing foods in this smoothie include:
Maca - improving your mood, increasing fertility, increased energy and endurance, fighting free radicals, and can also increase testosterone.
Kale/Spinach - rich in vitamins and fiber
Banana - full of magnesium. Magnesium is a nutrient that the pill has been accused of depleting in the body. It can also help increase your mood and help you sleep.
Protein - keeps you full, keeps cravings at bay, and supports lean muscle.
Cacao - packed with antioxidants, iron, and magnesium. Also can help increase your mood.
Flaxseed - full of omega 3s to support clear skin. Keeps you full and keeps cravings at bay. Also full of fiber and antioxidants.
Almond Butter - a paleo brand that is packed with the best natural ingredients. One of my favorite sources of healthy fat to keep you full.
What You Need:
½ cup ice
½ cup frozen organic kale or spinach
½ cup unsweetened almond milk
¼-½ frozen banana
1 scoop pumpkin spice protein (I use this one - use code “tokaleandback” for 20% off!)
1 tsp maca powder
1 tbsp cacao powder
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
2 tbsp Base Culture Maple Almond Butter
What you do:
Blend all of the ingredients together and enjoy the heck out of it!
Did you know I have 2 recipe ebooks? Yes! This one is all healthified desserts, and this one is 30 different recipes from breakfast to dessert, and everything in between to keep you feeling and looking your best!