Great for - Liver Health and Energy. A healthy nutrient-packed way to start your day.
We have put together this smoothie recipe containing a combination of amazing ingredients which are not only tasty and delicious but have many health benefits in particular for liver health and energy with some added extra health benefits just for good measure.
Milk Thistle
Known for centuries for its medicinal qualities Milk Thistle has been a traditional medicine around the world to support liver health and recovery. Milk Thistle contains the compound Silymarin, which itself contains three phytochemicals silybin, Silidianin, and Silicristin. Silybin is the most active phytochemical and is largely responsible for the proclaimed benefits of Silymarin. There are numerous studies (i) where positive results suggest that taking Milk Thistle can be used as an effective anti-oxidant and also act as detoxification of the liver.
(i) https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/silymarin
Oat milk
For those following a non-dairy diet or just fancying something different from cows' milk Oat Milk is a great alternative that has other health benefits. Unlike some other milk alternatives, oat milk doesn't separate when heated, has a smoother creamier texture and flavour, and is a good source of vitamins and minerals including protein, fibre, calcium, phosphorus, riboflavin, and vitamin B12. So if you follow a vegan or plant-based diet, are lactose intolerant, are allergic to milk, or live with a gastroenterological condition it's worth giving oat milk a try. If you are gluten intolerant check the packaging just to make sure that the brand you have chosen is gluten-free. Often oat milk is manufactured in premises that have processed wheat products so to be sure always check the label.
Berries
Adding berries to your diet is one thing you can do which will help you maintain a healthy body. Berries and red berries, in particular, are believed to have many health benefits and are a great source of energy. Berries contain antioxidants that help control free radicals, one of the leading causes of skin damage that contribute to the ageing of the skin. They are also a good source of fibre are extremely nutritious and contain several vitamins and minerals strawberries, for example, are very high in vitamin C. They have anti-inflammatory properties, whilst inflammation is your body's defence against injury or infection excessive long-term inflammation which can be caused by stress, inadequate exercise, and poor food choices is harmful. Berries have less sugar than sweeter fruits but are still able to satisfy a craving for a sweet taste. All in all adding berries to your diet is worthwhile.
Beetroot
The colourful beetroot really is a wonder food in its own right. The beautiful red or yellow beets are packed full of nutrients and contain high levels of compounds called nitrates. What's great about Nitrates is that they produce nitric oxide which causes the blood vessels to dilate consequently allowing the blood to flow better around the body. This ability to improve blood flow means that oxygen contained in the blood flows faster to the parts of our body that need it the most. Apparently, during the London Olympics in 2012, there was a shortage of beetroot juice because athletes were aware of its qualities to boost energy levels and also aid muscle recovery. Improving the flow of blood and the transportation of the oxygen it contains has other benefits as well, with some studies linking beetroot to improved cognitive function and detoxification of the liver. To gain maximum benefits beets are best eaten raw so combining beets into this already delicious and nutritious smoothie is a no-brainer.
Combined together these ingredients in a smashing smoothie will give you a boost as well as provide numerous health benefits throughout the day.
Serves 1 - ingredients
- Milk Thistle Powder ( I capsule)
- I small cooked beetroot
- Half a banana
- 200ml oat milk (or milk of choice)
- Small cup/handful of frozen berries (strawberries blackcurrant blackberry)
- Dash of honey if you like it sweeter
How to make
Add oat milk to the blender and sprinkle in the contents of 1 milk thistle capsule. With a big spoon, roughly chop the banana and beetroot into big chunks. Add all the ingredients to the blender along with the frozen berries and blend.
Side Benefits of Milk Thistle
As you might find additional information in our articles, Milk Thistle can positively impact your Type 2 Diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels, and improving your liver function all the while reducing liver inflammation. Milk Thistle is considered a dietary supplement that can also reduce high cholesterol. If you have liver problems, we recommend that you consult your doctor when you intend to add Milk Thistle to your diet. While Cholesterol tests of LDL Cholesterol vs. HDL Cholesterol shows that the bad cholesterol (LDL) is shown to be lower when taking Milk Thistle, giving you a chance to reach your daily target range. People with Type 2 diabetes need to keep in mind that lowering their blood sugar below safe levels can be hazardous, therefore if you are living with diabetes you might need to consult your doctor. Given that the smoothie contains no saturated fat, and combined with physical activity people with diabetes have an opportunity for weight loss with the Milk Thistle supplement.