In a world where we’re bombarded with pharmaceutical supplements, smoothies are a refreshing way to consume vital nutrients in a more natural way.
To help my transition to a more healthier lifestyle – and I need all the help I can get – I recently took the plunge and bought a NutriBullet. To say I parted with my Rands reluctantly is an understatement. This compact little bugger does not come in cheap!
Once unpacked and assembled, I was astound at how simple it was to concoct my first smoothie. And cleaning was even more of a hassle-free exercise.
After spinning some of the standard smoothie recipes, I got inspired (or high on all the nutrients) and decided to blend up a more South African centric health drink. Spekboom from the garden, Aloe Vera juice from the fridge, and a suspicious looking bag of dry Buchu leaves made up the South African contingent of my Mzansi doepa.
Buchu, bru, buchu.
Buchu is packed with anti-bacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, and great to clean out the old urinary track while perking up the prostate and kidneys. With the amount of abuse I hand down to those parts of the body, it sure is a welcoming change.
Spekboom.
Spekboom in turn is rich in manganese, cobalt, iodine, selenium and magnesium. This might look like a wishlist from the pill-popping housewife next door, but these micro elements are actually great to treat a number of ailments including heart burn, dehydration, exhaustion and heat stroke. The leaves have a refreshing, slightly tart, lemony taste.
Howzit, Aloe Vera.
Aloe Vera contains a wealth of nutrients, like vitamins A, C, E, and B12, as well as minerals like potassium, zinc, and magnesium. It also provides powerful antioxidants, helps to balance metabolism, promotes oral health, boosts the immune system, and even supports normal circulation and blood pressure.
Wolf Berries
To make my creation even more African, I had to add something Chinese. Low in calories, fat-free, a good source of fiber and a high-antioxidant food, goji berries benefits include the ability to help you fight disease, effectively manage your weight and experience better digestion. It’s also packed with a wide range of phytonutrients, vitamins and trace minerals.
Ingredients
1/2 tsp Buchu
1 tsp Spekboom
1 tsp Goji Berries
2 tsp Yogurt
1 small Apple
1 big Banana
Alo Vera juice (Topup to under max line)
Add all in the Nutribullet, blend, drink and wait two minutes before bouncing of the roof like the juiced up Gummi Bear you are.
