My nourishing smoothie makes an energizing snack rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber—and my family likes it!  Photo by Beauty Experts (CC BY 2.0) Blueberries, one of the richest sources of antioxidants around, are also a good source of fiber, which has been shown to improve digestive health and prevent constipation. Blueberries also have useful amounts of vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and raspberries contain calcium, fiber, and folate. Berries contain powerful antioxidant phytochemicals that decrease inflammation.
Combine all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. For a little extra flavor, add a few drops of vanilla extract. If desired, add honey to sweeten. Preparation: 10 minutes Serves: 2
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This lightly sweet pudding, reminiscent of tapioca, makes a delicious breakfast or snack.  Flickr user Roger H. Goun (CC BY 2.0) Superfood pudding is easy to prepare, though it does need to rest for several hours or overnight. Chia and blueberries are both considered “superfoods” for their health benefits. Blueberries are, high in vitamins and have anti-inflammatory properties. There is promising new evidence that blueberries can improve memory and slow down or postpone the onset of cognitive problems. Blueberries are rich in antioxidant nutrients. By reducing the risk of oxidative stress in our nerve cells, it has been reported that blueberries support us in maintaining smoothly functioning nerve cells and healthy cognitive function. Chia has an abundance of Omega-3 fats as well as being high in calcium and manganese.
Prep
Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, remove from heat and allow to cool. Pudding
Mix the coconut milk, Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, chia, vanilla and Himalayan salt. Cover and refrigerate 8–12 hours, stirring occasionally. Mix the blueberries with the remaining 2 tablespoons maple syrup. Stir in almonds. Serve Serve in dishes with alternating layers of chia mixture and berries. Preparation: 15 minutes plus 12 hours to set up Serves: 6 These energy bars are a perfect take-along treat for those busy days!  Flickr user stu_spivack (CC BY-SA 2.0) They have a lovely amount of sweetness without being sticky or messy. Chia seeds are high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Dates have a lot of fiber and vitamins A and K as well as minerals, such as calcium, iron, and phosphorus. Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E, the body’s primary fat-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E has significant anti-inflammatory effects.
Prep
Chop dates. Bars
Line a 9” x 9” baking pan with wax paper. In a blender or food processor, combine 2 cups raw almonds, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla and salt. In a separate bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Stir in almond mixture. Spread into pan and press evenly. Let sit at room temperature, 8–12 hours or overnight. Cut into bars. Preparation: 20 minutes, plus 12 hours inactive. Serves: 8 Amaranth pancakes are nutty and substantial.  Flickr user deedavee easyflow (CC BY-SA 2.0) Without gluten you won’t get light and fluffy diner-style pancakes. Nonetheless, they have a delicious, cake-like texture that will carry you until lunch. Maybe you’d like to consider making a double batch and carrying a few with you for hearty mid-afternoon snack? Cultivated by the Aztecs 8,000 years ago, amaranth was a major staple of ancient diets in Mexico and Central America. It is now used throughout the world and provides many health benefits. Recently, Amaranth is gaining more attention due to its remarkable nutrition. It is gluten-free and is the only grain with a documented Vitamin C content. It has high protein content, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; its high in calcium, iron, phosphorus, carotenoids and fiber. Enjoy this beneficial ancient grain along with the other vitamin- and mineral-rich ingredients in these hearty pancakes.
 Flickr user liz west (CC BY 2.0) These muffins are delicious and nutritious.
They make a nourishing and energy-sustaining snack food. The soluble fiber of the dates helps regulate blood sugar levels while providing a rich source of B vitamins, potassium and magnesium. The walnuts are an excellent source of antioxidants and help reduce inflammation. Walnuts are one of the highest vegetarian food sources of Omega 3 fatty acids. Additionally, the cinnamon not only boosts the flavor of the muffins but also has been shown to have a blood sugar lowering effect. A half-teaspoon a day of this common spice has also been shown to lower LDL cholesterol. Due to the natural sweetness of the dates, the maple syrup is listed as an optional ingredient. For those who are gluten-free, try experimenting with gluten-free flours such as coconut flour. While I don’t often recommend spelt flour, once in awhile, you can incorporate a good quality spelt flour, particularly when paired with so many nutritional ingredients. |
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