Winter is finally over, and it’s as though the clouds parted, the sun shone through and the angels sang! Well, not really…but the dawn of another season is always an exciting proposition for me.
With spring flowers about to bloom and we begin to prepare for warmer weather, naturally this got me thinking about my summer body.
It’s natural to add a few seasonal pounds in the wintertime – our ancestors did so in order to stay warm during the colder months, and I do it because, well, I like heavy indulgent meals. But it’s spring time, and that means it’s time to shed our winter coats- literally and figuratively!
Spring cleaning
Every year, at this time, I undertake a spring clean of sorts. It’s a regime of eating lighter and ramping up my exercise routine in anticipation of the summer months. As a self-proclaimed water baby, being uncomfortable in my own skin poolside simply will not do!
A large part of my spring clean involves juices and smoothies. I include them because I want to ensure that I am meeting my daily requirements for nutrients, in the most efficient way possible. Smoothies, in particular, are an excellent detox tool because they provide heaps of fiber, which is necessary for staying full and satisfied.
I always allow myself one last hurrah before I commit to my spring cleaning efforts, and this time was no different. But with this level indulgence comes a sluggish morning after, so to get my first detox morning started, I looked to a blueberry smoothie, of course!
My go-to energy giving smoothie is blueberry with bee pollen, as bee pollen is a natural energy booster and blueberries are brimming with body loving antioxidants (you should know by now that I LOVE blueberries!) And in order to sustain my energy and fullness, I include vegan protein powder.
A friendly note on protein powders – be sure to look for grass fed or vegan varieties, otherwise you could be consuming less then quality protein.
Vanilla, Blueberry and Bee Pollen Smoothie
Serves 1
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 tbsp bee pollen granules
- 2 tbsp vegan vanilla protein powder
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 ½ cup coconut water
Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth. Enjoy!
