Smoothie Moves

The Truth About “Lazy” Weight‑Loss Drinks: Chia, Hype, and Healthy Reality

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 21:24:00 +0000

Chia drinks explained without hype: benefits, cautions, weight‑loss timing,
and five easy recipes for real‑world health.

If you’ve ever clicked one of those online videos promising effortless weight loss from a “miracle drink,” you already know the drill: a long, breathless presentation, a vague recipe, and a hard push to buy pricey supplements. Let’s slow it all down and talk about what’s actually going on, especially with chia drinks, which are often the quiet star behind the hype.

Chia drinks sit right at the crossroads of smoothies, infused waters, and gentle wellness rituals.

The “Lazy Drink” Marketing Trap

Many ads hint at a secret beverage that melts fat while you relax. The reality is simpler and less dramatic. Most of these pitches lean on hydration, fiber, and appetite control, then wrap it in sales pressure. One of the few whole foods that does show up repeatedly in these claims is chia seed.

Instead of buying bottles of mystery powders, it’s worth understanding what chia can (and cannot) do on its own.

What Are Chia Drinks?

A chia drink is typically made by soaking chia seeds in water, plant milk, tea, or juice. The seeds absorb liquid and form a gel, which slows digestion and helps you feel full longer.

This is why chia often appears in conversations about natural weight management, blood sugar balance, and gut health.

(1) The Many Health Benefits of Chia Drinks

Chia seeds are small, but nutritionally mighty:

High in soluble fiber, which supports digestion and satiety
Plant‑based omega‑3s, linked to heart health
Steady energy due to slower carbohydrate absorption
Hydration support, since soaked chia holds fluid in the gut
Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron

For readers interested in whole‑food approaches, chia fits beautifully into a plant‑forward lifestyle and aligns well with clean eating principles.

Shop for high quality organic chia seeds at Amazon<=click save money, and when you purchase qualified products through our affiliate link we receive a commission so you support SmoothieMoves and the charitable organizations that feed the hungry that we, in turn, support through this site. 💗💗

(2) Important Cons and Cautions

Chia is generally safe, but it is not neutral for everyone.

Medication interactions
Because chia can lower blood pressure and blood sugar slightly, people taking beta blockers (such as metoprolol) or blood‑pressure medications should check with their healthcare provider. Chia may enhance the effects of these drugs, potentially causing light‑headedness or a drop in blood pressure.

Digestive discomfort
Too much chia too quickly can cause bloating or cramping. Start small and always soak seeds fully.

Dry seeds warning
Never swallow dry chia seeds on their own. Always soak them first.

(3) Chia Drinks and Weight Loss: What Actually Helps?

Chia drinks don’t “burn fat.” What they can do is support habits that matter.

When should you take a chia drink?

Morning: helps curb mid‑morning snacking
30 minutes before meals: may reduce overall calorie intake
Evening: choose calming ingredients if sleep is a goal

How much chia per serving?

1 tablespoon (about 12 g) per drink is plenty
Advanced users may go up to 2 tablespoons, but more is not better

What goes into a basic chia drink?

1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 cup (240 ml) liquid
Optional flavorings: citrus, berries, spices, or herbs
Soak at least 20 minutes, or overnight for best texture

(4) Five Delicious Chia Drink Recipes

1. Lemon‑Ginger Morning Chia

Water or warm herbal tea
Fresh lemon juice
Grated ginger
Bright, gently stimulating, and digestion‑friendly.

2. Blueberry‑Vanilla Chia Smooth Drink

Unsweetened almond milk
Mashed blueberries
Pure vanilla extract
Comforting and antioxidant‑rich.

3. Apple‑Cinnamon Evening Chia

Warm oat milk
Unsweetened applesauce
Cinnamon
A cozy option that pairs well with evening routines.

4. Cucumber‑Mint Hydration Chia

Cold water
Sliced cucumber
Fresh mint
Light, refreshing, and excellent for hydration.

5. Cherry‑Tart Sleep‑Support Chia

Tart cherry juice diluted with water
Splash of vanilla
Naturally soothing and often favored for nighttime use.

(5) A Gentle Reality Check

There is no truly “lazy” drink for weight loss. But chia drinks can support mindful eating, hydration, and steady energy, without the pressure tactics or recurring supplement costs.

If a video won’t tell you the recipe until minute 47, that’s usually your cue to close the tab and head to the kitchen instead.

🥤 Article and photos © 2026 Cynthia Zirkwitz | SmoothieMoves
Please share the link, not the full recipe — thanks for supporting independent food writers!
Everything Smoothie at SmoothieMoves.

Can-Fil Halo-Halo Smoothie Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 23:34:00 +0000

Halo-halo, the beloved Filipino “mix-mix” dessert, is a joyful layering of shaved ice, sweet fruits and beans, milk, and something creamy on top—often purple ube. This plant-based version keeps the spirit of the original while using simple vegan ingredients and a no-churn ube ice cream made in a blender. Refreshing, colorful, and meant to be stirred together, halo-halo is a reminder that variety can be both nourishing and beautiful.

I first sampled this yummy cuisine in October 2004, when my husband and I traveled to the Philippines to attend our older son's wedding to our lovely Filipino daughter-in-law. We took a sight-seeing trip from Manila with them to the breathtaking heights above Lake Taal, the active Taal Volcano within full view of the little ice cream shop where we ate purple ube ice cream for the first time. At some other point, we had halo-halo, maybe at Jolly Bee, the quintessential Filipino fast-food restaurant. A memorable event!

Purple Plant Power:
The vivid lavender color of ube isn’t just beautiful—it comes from anthocyanins, the same plant pigments that give blueberries, purple cabbage, and black rice their deep hues. Anthocyanins are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, making naturally purple foods both visually striking and nutritionally interesting. In halo-halo, ube adds not only its signature color but also a gentle earthiness that grounds the dessert and turns it into a celebration of purple plant power.

We will include a couple of the traditional foods in halo-halo (ube and coconut milk) but because we are doing a Canadian-Filipino version, we will also substitute other more familiar taste combinations for Canadians. What makes halo-halo special isn’t luxury—it’s abundance, contrast, and texture: icy, creamy, chewy, soft, and crunchy all in one glass.

Cultural Note:

Halo-halo is a traditional Filipino dessert with deep cultural roots. While many variations exist, this recipe is offered as a plant-based interpretation created with respect for Filipino food traditions and their origins. Please take the opportunity to explore the many Filipino food writers online and find out more about what goes into a traditional halo-halo party from the experts!

Vegan Purple Ube Ice Cream (Blender, No-Churn)

Yield: ~1½ cups

Ingredients:

🍦1½ cups full-fat coconut milk (chilled)

🍦¾ cup cooked ube or purple sweet potato

🍦¼–⅓ cup maple syrup or agave

🍦1 tsp vanilla extract

🍦Pinch of salt

🍦Optional: ½ tsp ube extract (color + aroma)

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until completely smooth.

2. Pour into a shallow freezer-safe container.

3. Freeze 4–6 hours, stirring once or twice in the first 2 hours.

4. Rest 5 minutes at room temperature before scooping.

Smoothie Moves' Can-Fil Halo-Halo Smoothie Bowl

Yield:~ 2 smoothie bowls

Ingredients

🍦2 cups of shaved ice OR 2 cups of iced watermelon, blended (like soft shaved ice)

🍦1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or soy milk or coconut or soy yogurt)

🍦1 cup sliced ripe banana

🍦2 1/2 cups blueberries

🍦1/2 cup finely chopped filberts or hazelnuts (toasted ahead of time and cooled)

🍦1/4 cup of maple syrup

🍦2 scoops of Ube ice cream

Instructions:

1. Make a small smoothie with 2 cups of blueberries and 1 cup of bananas. Chill.

2, Make sure ube ice cream is resting on the counter for 5 minutes (to be scoopable)

3. Layer the blueberry-banana smoothie on the bottom of the bowls, followed by shaved ice or watermelon soft ice, followed and milk (or coconut yogurt).

4. Sprinkle on the berries and nuts

5. Add a nice scoop of ube ice cream

6. Loop on the maple syrup.

7. Give thanks

8. Mix-mix the way you like it

9. Enjoy!!

Smoothie Moves put this one together-- maybe you have an idea for the next hala-hala? Please tell us what you invented and how it tasted! If you are from the Philippines, please tell what your favorite ingredients are in a halo-halo.

A Bit of History

Halo-halo evolved during the American colonial period (early 1900s), influenced by Japanese kakigōri (shaved ice desserts) brought by Japanese migrants. Over time, Filipinos made it their own using local fruits, beans, and root crops. What began as a way to cool off in tropical heat became a cultural symbol of Filipino creativity and resourcefulness—turning humble pantry items into something joyful and celebratory.

Today, halo-halo is served everywhere from roadside stalls to high-end restaurants, and every family has its own favorite combination.

Here at Smoothie Moves, we learned that there is no single “correct” version, but classic components often include:

🍦Shaved ice

🍦Evaporated or condensed milk

🍦Sweetened beans (red mung beans, white beans)

🍦Jellies (gulaman)

🍦Nata de coco (coconut gel)

🍦Kaong (sugar palm fruit)

🍦Sweetened saba bananas or jackfruit

🍦Ube halaya or ube ice cream on top

What makes halo-halo special isn’t luxury—it’s abundance, contrast, and texture: icy, creamy, chewy, soft, and crunchy all in one glass.

Ube Ice Cream

Understanding Cortisol and Smoothies: What You Need to Know

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 14:32:00 +0000

Cortisol has become a hot search term in the wellness world—and surprisingly, it shows up often in smoothie-related queries. Here’s a simple guide from us here at SmoothieMoves on what cortisol actually is, why certain wellness practitioners worry about smoothies, and how to make cortisol-friendly vegan blends that taste wonderful. (A delicious smoothie recipe is included below)

1. What Is Cortisol?

Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. It helps regulate energy, blood sugar, inflammation, and the “fight-or-flight” response.

According to endocrinologist Dr. Robert Lustig, cortisol is not harmful in normal daily rhythms—problems arise when cortisol levels remain high due to chronic stress, sleep issues, or metabolic imbalance.

2. Who Is Concerned About Smoothies and Cortisol?

People aren’t worried that smoothies contain cortisol. Instead, the concern is that some smoothies can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, which can indirectly influence stress-hormone regulation.

Groups or practitioners who tend to raise this concern include:

• Functional medicine doctors – They often link glycemic spikes to adrenal “overload.”

• People with diabetes or insulin resistance – Smoothies made with juice or high-sugar fruits can cause quick glucose changes.

• People trying to manage weight – Large, high-carbohydrate drinks may cause fast energy swings.

• Some ADHD-focused clinicians – Because blood-sugar instability can worsen attention or mood for certain individuals, some practitioners suggest balancing carbs with protein.

• Integrative nutritionists – They often promote “slow sugar” approaches: fiber, healthy fats, whole fruits, and protein.

Registered dietitian Melissa Joy Dobbins, RD, notes that liquid carbohydrates are absorbed faster than solid foods, meaning glycemic spikes can be stronger when fruit is blended without protein, fat, or adequate fiber.

3. Are Smoothies Dangerous Because of Cortisol Issues?

In most cases, no. Smoothies are not inherently dangerous for cortisol regulation as long as they are balanced.

If a smoothie is mostly fruit juice, sweetened plant milk, bananas, and added sugars, it can create a quick rise and fall in glucose. According to diabetes educator Dr. Anne Peters, these rapid swings can contribute to stress-hormone reactivity over time—but they do not cause cortisol disorders like Cushing’s. Those conditions are medical and relatively rare.

When smoothies include whole fruits, plant protein, seeds, and healthy fats, their absorption is slower and more stable—reducing the chance of stress-related hormonal fluctuations.

4. Which Vegan Ingredients Might Raise Cortisol (Indirectly)?

These ingredients don’t “raise cortisol” directly—they simply may cause rapid glucose absorption, which can influence stress pathways in sensitive individuals.

Ingredients to Use in Moderation

• Fruit juice (especially apple, grape, orange--the primary ingredient in store-bought smoothies)

• Sweetened plant milks

• Maple syrup, agave, coconut sugar

• Very large quantities of high-GI fruits (ripe bananas, pineapple, mango)

• Concentrated caffeine add-ins (espresso, strong matcha)

– Dietitian Dr. Sharon Bergquist notes that caffeine can temporarily increase cortisol levels in some people.

5. Which Vegan Ingredients Are More Cortisol-Friendly?

These ingredients slow down sugar absorption and support steadier energy—helpful for avoiding stress-response spikes.

Great choices

• Low-GI berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)

• Chia seeds or ground flaxseed

• Avocado

• Rolled oats

• Silken tofu or unsweetened soy yogurt

• Unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk

• Cinnamon (shown in some nutrition studies to help moderate post-meal blood sugar)

Nutrition scientist Dr. Michael Greger points out that adding whole seeds to berry smoothies can significantly improve glycemic response compared to fruit-only blends.

A Cortisol-Friendly Vegan Smoothie (Delicious & Balanced)

Blueberry-Spinach Seed Smoothie

Serves 1–2

• 1 cup frozen blueberries

• 1 cup baby spinach

• 1/4 avocado

• 1 Tbsp chia or ground flaxseed

• 1/4 cup silken tofu or 1/3 cup unsweetened soy yogurt

• 2 Tbsp rolled oats

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 3/4–1 cup unsweetened almond or oat milk

• Ice if desired

Blend until smooth. Add 1 tsp maple syrup only if needed.

This smoothie combines low-GI berries, plant protein, healthy fats, and fiber—exactly the pattern nutritionists recommend for reducing glycemic spikes and keeping cortisol responses calmer.

Here are a few other SmoothieMoves recipes that you might enjoy that use similar ingredient structure and that you can easily adjust-- add or take away and/or lower amounts-- to conform to the principles in the above lower-cortisol smoothie: Cranberry-Apple-Grape-Chia Smoothie and Blueberry Sunrise Smoothie-Porridge Bowl.

Take-Away Thoughts

Cortisol becomes a problem when lifestyle, stress, and diet cause chronic imbalance—not because of the occasional smoothie. By focusing on whole fruits, fiber, seeds, and plant protein, smoothie lovers can support steady energy and enjoy delicious drinks without worry.

Recipes for Frozen Grapes

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 13:07:00 +0000

Frozen Grape Slushie & Other Recipes and Ideas for Using Frozen Grapes

Frozen grapes can be used in fabulous recipes all year long. /Source

How to Use Grapes All Year Long

The SmoothieMoves family were happy to move into a home that included a yard full of fruit trees and berry bushes. Most precious of all to us people from the far cold hinterlands were the succulent green table grapes that grew prolifically on the old arbor.

Some years I am exhausted when the harvest coincides with the autumn rains, which are common to the west coast of Canada where we live. Figs, apples, blackberries and grapes seem to all want attention at the same time. Swarms of little fruit flies hang in the air. I burn the midnight oil making jam, freezing, and contributing to that shockingly high yearly statistic for sugar over-use by Canadians of this era.

We are not wine-makers, nor are we even wine-drinkers, at this time in our life. We take the grapes to potlucks at the church and share them with friends who don't have grapes of their own. We fill up the freezer with bags of frozen fruit as well. Some of the frozen grapes, figs and berries will go into daily morning smoothies. However, I have now found a number of luscious recipes for frozen grapes that I had no idea existed.

If you have an abundance of grapes to freeze, I hope you will find a couple of these recipes that will help you to justify the time and freezer space:

1.Grape Frozen "Candy"

2.Grape Frozen Yogurt

3.Frozen Grape Slushie

4.Jam From Frozen Grapes

5.Mediterranean Grape Cake

Concord grape frozen yogurt sounds heavenly. See recipe at Source.

Concord grape frozen yogurt sounds heavenly. See recipe at Source. | Source

1. Frozen Grape "Candy"

This is the easiest recipe you will come across. Simply remove the grapes from the stems and freeze them. Eat as desired. These might not be a favorite in a harshly cold winter, but if they overwinter until warmer weather, they are a big favorite for easy desserts.

2. Grape Frozen Yogurt

Only make this if you have a very tasty grape such as the concord (seedless or seeded) or our green grapes (I'm sorry that I do not know their name—they are small, light green, seedless and absolutely the best grape we have ever eaten: sweet and tangy, like Champagne).

Ingredients

1 pound grapes

1 pound yogurt (I use vegan coconut yogurt)

2 tablespoons raw honey (other honey can be subbed but raw is thicker and sweeter)

Method

Use frozen grapes that have been separated from the stem.

Process grapes and honey in a food processor until smooth, stopping to clean the sides of the processor, and then work through a mesh juice bag or a sieve to get the most possible juice. Put grape peels, etc., into compost.

Add all the ingredients to the food processor or blender and process until smooth.

Chill in the freezer for a time.

Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and process as the directions suggest.

Spread smoothly in a pan and freeze for several hours until scoopable.

Taste of summer at Christmas!

3. Frozen grape slushie

Here is another one that will take you only minutes to whirl up with your frozen grapes!

Ingredients

1 cup frozen grapes

3/4 cup filtered water or chilled coconut water

Method

Add water and grapes to a high-speed blender.

Whirl up and pour into a glass.

Drink.

This works especially well when you have had a long, stale day of meetings and need something revitalizing when you get home. It contains all the same phytonutrients as the 'other grape drink.'

4. Making Jam From Frozen Grapes

Frozen grapes and other fruits can be mixed in regular recipes and made from frozen grapes at any time you feel the desire for a nice jam. The difference between jams and jellies is basically that the jams are made from whole fruits (you generally don't sieve off the fibre, although, in the case of blackberries and raspberries, you may choose to do that). Frozen grapes are just as easy to work with as fresh grapes for jams and compote.

5. Mediterranean Grape Cake

Here is a tasty-looking cake that would work well with frozen grapes—just thaw them a bit to cut the cooking time. It is not vegan, although most of my recipes are. I know that those of you who are strictly vegan will likely find a way to make this more vegan than it is. Use a flax egg, for example. Use coconut or almond milk instead of dairy milk. That might be all that is required for substitution. It looks like it would be very yummy with some of the new vegan Greek-style yogurts that I tried the other day ... or regular Greek-style yogurt if you are not vegan, of course. Enjoy!

🥤 Article and photos © 20256 Cynthia Zirkwitz | SmoothieMoves
Please share the link, not the full recipe — thanks for supporting independent food writers!
Everything Smoothie at SmoothieMoves.

Healthy Frozen Smoothie Treats

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 13:11:00 +0000

Cool down with these delicious, healthy frozen smoothie pops—
fruity, fudgy, and refreshingly natural treats for kids and grown-ups alike!

Here at SmoothieMoves I like to expand the definition of "smoothie" to include the healthy, juicy deliciousness in a variety of forms: bowls, smoothie salads, and here, frozen pops!

1. How to Make Coco-Almond-Banana Frozen Pops

Reminiscent of the more popular fudgy frozen treat, this frozen pop has none of the yuck ingredients and all of the yum!

2. How to Make Strawberry-Banana Frozen Pops

Creamy Banana and ripe Strawberry team up to make this unbeatable fresh, healthy frozen delight!

3. How to Make Nectarine-Banana-Cinnamon Frozen Smoothie Treats

This healthy frozen pop contains fresh nectarine and creamy banana with the zing of cinnamon.

4, How to Make Frozen Savory Smoothie Pop

This "grown-up" healthy frozen smoothie pop is alive with fresh greens, the tingle of lemon, and a hint of sassy garlic!

The recipes for the four different frozen pops/popsickles/treats in this article all derive from the popular smoothie drink. Smoothies are a delicious way to take in refreshment and nutrition in a creamy, smooth liquid. The recipes you find here are all what I would consider optimally healthy frozen smoothie treats: there are no high fructose corn ingredients, no artificial sweeteners of any kind, no MSG flavouring agents, and no neon-bright artificial colors-- just natural ingredients chock-full of vitamins and minerals that you want for yourself and your children. And the wonderful thing is: they taste as good as they are for you! As a matter of fact, don't tell your children that you are making some "healthy popsickles"-- just let them taste them!

1. Delicious AND Healthy Coco-Almond-Banana Frozen Smoothie Treat-- Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, No Fructose, No Preservatives

Frozen Cocoa-Almond-Banana Treats

Ingredients for the Coco-Almond-Banana Frozen Pops

The following makes about 6 frozen Pops:

*3 Bananas, ripe, frozen, chopped into 1

*2 teaspoons Cocoa (I used Raw Cacao Powder)

*2 Tablespoons Almond Butter (I used Maranatha Raw)

*8 ounces Almond (or other) Milk

*2 teaspoons Organic Sugar Cane crystals, (NOT artificial sweeteners which are not healthy and stick to the inside of the popsickle maker)

Instructions:

1. Whisk up the Cocoa, Sugar, Milk together in a cup until quite well mixed

2. Put frozen Banana pieces, Almond Butter, and Cocoa Mix into a high speed blender or other blender or food processor, and blend/pulse until very well mixed. There can be some small Banana Chunks if that is okay with you/your child, but the Cocoa should definitely be well blended.

3. Pour mix into your pop-maker forms or device (I use a Quick Pop Frozen Treat Maker) and freeze and serve as per instructions. This also makes a yummy fudgey sorbet, or of course, with more milk, a brain-freezing smoothie.

2. Strawberry-Banana Frozen Smoothie Pop-- 3 ingredients-- as yummy as it looks!

Frozen Strawberry-Banana Smoothie Pops

Ingredients for the Strawberry-Banana Frozen Pops

the following makes 6 frozen smoothie pops

*about 35 small or 20 medium-sized ripe Strawberries

*2 ripe, frozen Bananas, chopped into 1" - 2" segments

*8 ounces of Almond Milk or Water (or other unsweetened juice, mylk)

If you like these frozen smoothie treaats, you might like my recipe for Frozen Grape Slushies.

Instructions

1. Put all ingredients into a high speed blender, regular blender or food processor and blend/pulse until consistent. A few small chunks of strawberry and banana are permitted for texture.

2. Pour into freezing device or containers and freeze and serve as per directions.

3. Nectarine-Banana-Cinnamon Frozen Smoothie Treat

Frozen Nectarine-Cinnamon-Coconut Smoothie Pops

Ingredients for the Nectarine-Banana-Cinnamon Frozen Smoothie Treats

The following ingredients make 6 frozen smoothie pops:

*8 ounces of Coconut Milk (or other milk)

*2 frozen Bananas, cut in 1" - 2" chunks

*2 ripe organic* Nectarines, stone removed, cut in chunks

*1 teaspoon Cinnamon powder

*1 teaspoon natural Sweetener (optional)\

Instructions

1. Put all ingredients into a high speed blender, regular blender or food processor and blend/pulse until consistent. I find that this particular ice bar is much nicer if it is blended thoroughly with no chunks.

2. Pour into freezing device or containers and freeze and serve as per directions.

4. Frozen Savory Smoothie Pop-- a more sophisticated frozen treat

Frozen Savory Smoothie Pops

Ingredients for Frozen Savory Smoothie Pop

This is my fave grown-up frozen smoothie pop... it has a little honey in it for sweetener, but the rest is like having your dreamiest, most refreshing salad ever... after you make the 6 treats if there is some of this left, just drink it!

* 3-5 leaves of Baby Romaine Lettuce

* 3-5 leaves of very tender (Baby) Arugula

* Pint of ripe Cherry or Grape Tomatoes

* 2 cloves Garlic, peeled

* 1/2 English cucumber, peeled

* Juice of 1/2 Lemon

* pinch Cayenne (optional)

* 1/2 tsp. Sea Salt

Instructions

1. Put all ingredients into a high speed blender, regular blender or food processor and blend/pulse until very smooth.

2. Pour into freezing device or containers and freeze and serve as per directions

🥤 Recipe and photos © 2026 Cynthia Zirkwitz | Smoothie Moves
Please share the link, not the full recipe — thanks for supporting independent food writers!
Find more quick, vegan smoothie recipes and freezer-pop ideas at Smoothie Moves.

Holiday Smoothie Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 01:28:00 +0000

Holiday Smoothie Bowl

Today st SmoothieMoves we are enjoying some lovely holiday recipes from Candace Feldman's book, Lean into Plants with its 100+ recipes that are primarily plant-based-- there are a handful of ovo-lacto and fiscatarian recipes.

The *Holiday Smoothie bowl* above is a delicious combination of vegan nog flavours and ice-creaminess with a toning down of the sweetness of the commercial plant-based libation. Very nice for bringing the festive season into focus.

I also made up the Snicker Bites (above), tasty little chocolate, nut butter morsels with a healthy sweet whole food, plant-based feature. Candace likes to keep a balance between natural and wholesome, and wtf-yummy. Her health journey included letting go of food obsessions. She provides many of the helpful affirmations that she used in recovery from disordered eating.

Find out more and purchase Lean into Plants <~here.

More Holiday Smoothies:
Mint-Chocolate & other luscious smoothies (Firefly Adobe designed)

Cranberry-Apple, Green Grape and Chia Christmas Smoothie

Cranberry Lassi with Coconut Milk, Cumin, Chia and Ginger Smoothie

Mandaringo-Ginger Smoothie

Christmas Cake Smoothie

Luscious Eggless Nog Smoothie

Mint Chocolate Smoothie

Sweet Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
===============================================

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

2 Smoothies using Dandelion Leaves

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Wed, 26 May 2021 04:39:00 +0000

Dandelion is one of the healthiest greens you can consume
, especially if it is plucked fresh from your back lot where you've been carefully growing food organically for a few years. Dandelions are said to help dissolve gallstones, detoxify the liver, clean out impurities in our bloodstream, dissolve kidney stones, help heal gastro-intestinal disorders, diabetes, and indigestion. Today I will provide a couple of juice recipes -- use only organic, unsprayed leaves. (ideas: you try your own ingredients):

Bitter-Sweet Love Juice
~Watermelon (organic with seeds, ideal)
~4 Dandelion Leaves (to start)
~small finger size fresh Ginger, peeled

Wash and peel 1/4 medium-sized Watermelon leaving as much of the white inner layer as possible. Cut into segments that will fit in your hopper
Put all of the above through the hopper and drink! You might want to repeat the process throughout the day using the same recipe above. For me this made a 12 oz. glass, but it will depend on how much watermelon juice you get from the 1/4 Watermelon-- this is a good juice to make for 2.
Watermelon and Dandelion are both natural diuretics. Please talk to your physician or other trusted health care provider if you have a health issue that may flare up as a result of this.

Dandy Blended Salad
This is a fantastic detoxing and refreshing juice to help knock out the 'yeasty' infections and provide some relief from the itch.

Add enough organic stevia (1/2 teaspoon and up) to sweeten this salad without adding to the problem):

Put the following in a Vitamix (or other high power blender):

4 tender, large fresh Dandelion Leaves and fresh Nettle Leaves, if available
Small bunch of Arugula Leaves
Big Handful of Romaine or other mild Lettuce
Juice of a Lemon
Peeled and chopped Cucumber
Sweet Red Pepper, seeded and chopped
2 Cloves, peeled Garlic, chopped
Small peeled nub of fresh Garlic root, chopped
Turmeric, Salt, Pepper to personal taste
1/2 teaspoon organic Stevia powder (not the kind with alcohol or corn)
Filtered Water to blend easily

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We recieve a small commission for referrals if you purchase using the link above, but you are not charged extra. Thank you for your support.

Almond Butter-Apple Pie Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Tue, 18 May 2021 14:47:00 +0000

Any Apple Pie Smoothie recipe I've come across that is delicious seeks to replicate the apple pie a la mode idea using yogurt or thick cream to replicate the ice cream scoop mixed in with the fruit and the crust. So, so yummy!

I was experimenting and found that the following ingredients come together creamy, sweet, fruity and so satisfying as a dessert smoothie that you might never want to fuss around with pie crust again!

Into your Vitamix carafe put the following:

*3 Apples, sliced, core and seeds removed
*small nob of fresh Ginger, peeled and sliced or grated
*2 T. Maranatha Raw Almond Butter
*1-2 T. Raw Honey
*1 T. Cinnamon
*Pinch of Celtic Sea Salt (or to taste)
*1 C. Frozen Peaches (Secret Ingredient!)
*3-4 C. Almond Milk (I used Almond Breeze)

Whirl together until creamy smooth. The Frozen Peaches bring out the 'apple' flavour more than apples do on their own (don't know why?). Try it yourself and see if it is not ambrosia!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Blueberry Sunrise Smoothie Porridge Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 18:16:00 +0000

This Blueberry Smoothie Porridge Bowl is lovely to see and full of flavour and texture that is to eat fun to eat.

Here are the suggested ingredients for a similar smoothie porridge bowl as high in nutrient density and healing deliciousness:

Start with a creamy oatmeal base, either made in the morning hot and hearty or as overnight oats that save on morning prep

Then add on:

A simple blueberry smoothie
Non-dairy yogurt (eg., soy or coconut)
Chopped walnuts
Chia seed gel
Cacao nibs
Sliced orange rounds
Coconut shreds

If you try your hand at a similar smoothie porridge bowl, take a snap and add hashtag #smoothiemoves on Instagram so we can celebrate your creation with you!

Enjoy your day!

‐---------------

Joyce N.

Success with the seeds

Buckwheat cover crop seeds are excellent green manure cover crops for my raised beds.
Heritage tomatoes are the best!
I also love the various salad greens & microgreens & sprouts.

On https://www.westcoastseeds.com/

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Pineapple-Mango-Plum Smoothie Porridge Bowl -

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 00:40:00 +0000

I call this Pineapple-Mango-Plum Smoothie Porridge Bowl. The pineapple and mango make for a sunny smoothie (not that you can see much of the sunny piece) and the luscious plum preserves-- a precious gift from a friend's mom-- are set like gems and criss-crossed with delicious almond butter.

Suggested Ingredients:

Start with a foundation layer of creamy oatmeal, either the overnight variety or regular cooked oatmeal.

Then:

A simple splendid pineapple-mango smoothie made up up of fresh or frozen fruit chunks, a scoop of vegan vanilla protein powder and water or almond milk
Italian plum preserves
Almond butter
Hemp seeds

If you like this smoothie porridge bowl and are on Instagram please snap a pic of your masterpiece and hashtag it as #smoothiemoves !

Here is a closeup;

Enjoy!

-------------------------‐------------------

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Sweet Dates with Nuts-Strawberry Smoothie Porridge Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 00:36:00 +0000

I am calling this smoothie porridge bowl "Sweet Dates with Nuts". Hope you enjoy!

A FEW WORDS ABOUT DATES

In the Bible, dates are referred to many times, often in reference to their sweetness. Dates continue to be grown and eaten in-- and exported from-- the Middle East. Our North American grocery stores now also sell soft delicious Medjool dates grown in the USA. Such a nice change from the hard cake of dates I knew as "dates" when I was a girl in rural Saskatchewan.

Dates also turn out to have the highest nutritional profile as a sweetener. They contain vitamin K, magnesium, selenium, antioxidants and of course, fibre. Early risers during the time of Ramadan (fasting all day) eat dates for breakfast as a chief way to get through the day.

Date Syrup

Many Middle Eastern cooks make a date syrup-- dates and water-- as a delightful sweetener and for baking. There are different methods, some more traditional methods with a 100% hands-on approach: soaking the dates, squeezing all the "juices" through cheese gauze, and then cooking the date juice down with constant stirring until a honey-like texture is obtained.

I made a syrup by pouring boiling water over 2 cups of Medjool dates and letting them overnight. Next morning I sieved out as much liquid as I could and boiled it down. I mashed the leftover bits and they are a mass I can call "date butter"-- basically, jam. Very yummy.

The syrup I used in the smoothie porridge bowl, along with thin almond butter to represent "the nuts."

So, here are the suggested ingredients:

*simple strawberry-water smoothie

*almond butter, thinned with a bit of H2O

*date syrup (see above)

*coconut yogurt

*strawberries

*Hemp seeds

ENJOY!

Our tiny geriatric Terry T-cup looks
forward to her small portion of
date every morning.

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for qualified referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Blueberry-Apple-Cinnamon Smoothie Porridge Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 04:39:00 +0000

This pretty blueberry-apple-cinnamon smoothie porridge bowl is another in a series of delicious nutritious plant-powered breakfast bowls.

Here are the ingredients I layered on so you can go get any that you like the looks of for tomorrow's breakfast:

Always start out with a base of creamy oats, either overnight oats or hot, cooked oats.

And add in/on the following:

*blueberry-banana smoothie with blueberries, chopped banana, almond milk and a scoop of plain coconut yogurt.

*blueberries

*walnuts

*organic unsweetened apple sauce

*cinnamon powder

*chia gel

If you make this smoothie porridge bowl and want to share it on Instagram please use hashtag #smoothiemoves so we can admire your work!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Vanilla-Strawberry Smoothie Porridge Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 22:52:00 +0000

This healthy delicious Vanilla-Strawberry smoothie porridge bowl gets a nutritional and flavour boost with a scoop of vegan protein powder in the smoothie!

The foundation of every porridge smoothie bowl is the oatmeal porridge:

And then you layer on ingredients such as:

Vanilla-strawberry smoothie that includes fresh or frozen strawberries, a scoop of vanilla protein (I used Vega) and vegan coconut or soy or almond yogurt and a small amount of plant milk
Handful of fresh or frozen (thawed) strawberries, halved
Shredded coconut
Cacao nibs
Hemp seeds

If you make this densely nutritious smoothie porridge bowl, hashtag a photo with #smoothiemoves on Instagram so we can say hi and admire your creation!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Strawberry-Banana Smoothie Porridge Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 21:39:00 +0000

Here is tomorrow's Strawberry-Banana Smoothie Porridge Bowl-- the ingredients I used this morning are listed below so you have time to pick them up today.

We always start with a bowl of creamy nutritious porridge. You can make it over night by soaking the oatmeal in plant milk or, like us, you can cook the oats as usual.

And here is what we added:

simple strawberry-banana smoothie (strawberries, chopped banana, water)
strawberries
banana pieces
blueberries
chopped walnuts
short line of chia seed gel
cacao nibs
coconut shreds
almond milk (not shown)

If you make this, take a photo and post on Instagram with hashtag #smoothiemoves so we can admire your work!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Pineapple-Blueberry Smoothie Porridge Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 21:22:00 +0000

My husband and I generally have a smoothie and a bowl of oatmeal porridge for breakfast. It was only a matter of time until we blended the two into a "smoothie porridge bowl."

I am going to hashtag these recipe ideas as #tomorrowssmoothiebowl on Twitter and Instagram, the point being that you might like the looks of it, but maybe you don't have the ingredients you would like or try.

Pineapple-Blueberry

Porridge Smoothie Bowl

Start with a lovely creamy bowl of oats, either steaming hot or overnight oats that you have soaked in plant milk for 8 hours or over night.

(Ours contains about a small

handful of Thompson's raisins. )

2. Now, gently pour on about a 1/4 of a cup of fairly thick, sludgy smoothie-- I am using plain blueberry smoothie here (blueberry, banana and water).

3. Add on pineapple chunks, banana rounds and a sprinkle of hempseed.

4. Enjoy with your fave plant milk, or as is!

‐---------------------------------

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Crazy Carrot-Cranberry Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 06:05:00 +0000

Crazy Carrot-Cranberry Smoothie Image: Pixabay

INGREDIENTS (to serve 4)

2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup pineapple chunks or pieces
1/4 cup frozen orange juice concentrate

Pulse or whirl up the above ingredients in a Vitamix or Blendex blender. You may need to do a couple of batches in a less powerful blender.

Serve and enjoy!

If you enjoy this tangy smoothie, you might also enjoy the following creations by Smoothie Moves: Mandaringo-Ginger Smoothie and Cranberry Lassi with Coconut Milk, Cumin, Chia and Ginger Smoothie

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Pineappuccino (or Home-made Pineapple Frozen Whip)

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 05:12:00 +0000

Pineappuccino-- a DIY Pineapple Frozen Drink!

This refreshing fruity drink is a take off on the frappiccino family of sweet frozen fruit drinks that my granddaughters love so much. It is also a bit of a copy cat of a famous pineapple whip from one of the world's favourite amusement parks.

Here are the ingredients for making 4 servings of this delicious, cooling drink:

1 cup ice cubes
2 pineapples, peeled and cored (you can use the core too, if you have a Vitamix or Blendex)
1 organic lime, juiced
2 tablespoons raw honey or maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
1 1/2 cups of coconut milk

Add all the above to the cannister of your Vitamix or Blendex blenders... other blenders may need to do this in a couple of batches.
Place on the lid securely
Pulse or blend until a smooth, frozen consistency
Pour into short glass with a wider opening and enjoy!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Pink Grapefruit Ginger Smoothie (from "Crazy for Curry" Night Recipes from the Alberni Veg Supper Club)

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 19:04:00 +0000

This body-boosting cool Spring favourite is used to boost the immune system against Spring colds and flu.

PINK GRAPEFRUIT GINGER SMOOTHIE

INGREDIENTS:

Pink Grapefruit, medium to large
1 medium Banana
1/2 Cup Non-Dairy Milk
1/4 - 1/2 tsp. Fresh Ginger, minced
1 medium Carrot, peeled
2 ice cubes OR 1/2 Cup Cold Water
(Optional) 1 tsp. Maca Powder (the boost against colds and flu)

Peel the grapefruit to remove the peel, bitter white pith, seeds, and membrane-- leaving just the segments
Put all ingredients into blender and whirl them up until smooth
Serve and consume-- essential vitamins will oxidize out within 20 minutes

See another beverage from "Crazy for Curry" recipes: Vegan Turmeric Latté

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Hallowe'en Smoothies for Kids by Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 10:30:00 +0000

Kids are generally not big advocates for the healthy smoothies that Mommy tries to introduce them to. But add a little ""scary"" theme and some sibling or little buddy giggles and goofiness, and you got a go! The three videos each have a healthy plant-based smoothie with kids doing the demos in the charming way kids do. Watch them on Smoothiemoves or Youtube to support the youtuber famiies and give them a Like! Have fun, stay safe and healthy!!

1. The first smoothie-- SCARY FRUIT SMOOTHIE-- is made by a couple of charming children from Ireland. Their smoothie involves cranberry juice, banana and raspberres. The boy says that any fruit is possible but that raspberries make it look more like blood. I think your little goblins might enjoy making this. They float a couple of marshallow eyeballs in their drinks (optional)

2. The second smoothie for kids by kids is a very healthy smoothie made by one little witch. She uses diced pumpkin, mango (she calls it canteloupe but it says mango under the video), carrot juice, and banana. There appears to be a little container of honey that doesn't get used-- it is optional I guess. This smoothie really does look quite tasty. (If your kids don't like pumpkin, I'd suggest just going with the other ingredients, all orange).

The third video is another brother-sister team. They call this a "Smoothie Challenge-- Yummy or Gross". Your kids will likely want to do a similar challenge, particular where the 'surprise' factor is involved for grossness. This is a pretty creative venture but I am not sure I would want my kids to drink smoothies that include cheese and spaghetti, or what looked like chicklettes. Fun though!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We recieve a small commission for referrals if you purchase using the link above, but you are not charged extra. Thank you for your support.

Get these cute, cozy, adorable 12-different-animal-hoods crochet pdf patterns for your favorite little ones.NEW Keep Sweetie warm and cute at all times! (affiliate link) https://tidd.ly/4ysUDwy

Spicy, Tangy, Cancer-Fighting Green Breakfast Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 21:04:00 +0000

Tastier than you might think!!

This particular green smoothie is inspired by the green drink that Chris Wark (of "Chris Beat Cancer" and the SquareOne Healing Cancer Summit --you can sign up to be notified of the next free series) described in Module 4 as part of his morning protocol during the time when he was actively involved in knocking Stage 3 Colon cancer out of his body without chemo and without radiation. The 10-part video series is so interesting (and important)--and you can watch it when it comes up again: FREE.

If you miss the opportunity, you can still get hold of the materials with all his information, and be part of a support group that includes individuals who have amazing healing stories to share.

Many people who watch this summit purchase the materials and watch/read repeatedly until they are able to replicate the system that works for so many to combat cancer naturally-- to be EMPOWERED and to get through other chronic disease also (eg., Diabetes 2 and Heart Disease). Go HERE to learn more about owning the complete coaching program.

INGREDIENTS (all of which Chris recommends): Makes about 24+ oz.

2 C. Filtered or Distilled Water
Organic Arugula and Baby Spinach combo from Costco - 2 handfuls
2 Organic Apples, Chopped (not peeled, but cored-- Chris leaves in the seeds, I didn't)
2 T. Organic Flaxseed (you could choose to use flax meal instead, or Chia seed)
1 Organic Celery Stem, chopped
Small Handful, Organic Broccoli Sprouts (Health Store, or sprout your own)
Small Grated Knuckle of Turmeric (or 2 tsp. Powdered Turmeric)
Small Grated Knuckle of Organic Ginger
Shot of Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (or Lemon Juice-- you decide how much a shot is)
1/4 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
Blend up and drink (store in mason jar with lid on in fridge for a couple of days)

Use fresh, organic, whole food ingredients to fight cancer. You deserve the best! If you can't get hold of organic, just wash the other ingredients as well as possible (using apple cider vinegar can help) and eat more. Don't give up on fresh whole foods-- they are always going to be a better bet than processed, isolates...

I was a little timid about how this smoothie might taste with so many "strong" elements-- but it is absolutely delicious. If you have an aversion to (or are unfamiliar with, or timid about) some of the ingredients, skip them or use a small quantity. Every one of them has nutritive values that have been shown to KILL cancer cells and/or BUILD the immune system.

Click on the image of Chris and his lovely family to sign up for wait list for the next informative and exciting Square One Summit:

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Cyclist's Daily Launch Smoothie - Pineapple Mango Lime Coconut Thyroid-Happy Green Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 23:18:00 +0000

Pineapple Mango Lime Coconut Thyroid-Happy Green Smoothie

This delicious fruity smoothie is made to NOT injure or irritate the thyroid, and to be a source of energy and high immunity. My husband Ed has been drinking one of these almost every day of this month (and I mean 20 ounces by "one of these"). He has just completed riding 361 kilometers with this month's GREAT CYCLE CHALLENGE to support children and their families in their battles against Cancer. You can learn more about that, and please donate (income tax receipted) by going HERE.

My husband and hero Ed rode his heart out for these little kids!

The Recipe: (Makes 2 - 20 oz. servings for you and someone you love)

*Your choice of Frozen Organic Fruit: 3 Cups (My Faves are Pineapple and Mango, mixed)
*Scoop or more of Coconut Shreds
*Juice of 1 Lime, Squeezed
* 1/2 Cup (about 200 ml) Organic Apple Sauce
*2 Scoops your fave Dry Greens Mix (I use Thyroid Greens - Goitrogen FREE green superfood powder drink mix )
*2 tsp. (30ml) the herb/spice Turmeric
*Water to make 40 oz. (about 16 oz.-- if it is too thick, add more)

Place all the above in your VitaMix (or other blender) and whirl it up until creamy and smooth, like soft serve ice cream. It is ever so much more tasty and refreshing! And will definitely have you feeling great and full until Lunchtime! You might even find yourself cycling over 100km and doing stair-running when you get there!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We recieve a small commission for referrals if you purchase using the link above, but you are not charged extra. Thank you for your support.

Locavor Black and Blue Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 02:26:00 +0000

This delicious smoothie is made mostly from locally grown fruits: Black berries, our seedless green grapes, a friend's blue grapes (not Concords), and some apples from a farmer down the hill. The only non-local item is the coconut milk I used, that brought this all together more like a very flavourful shake!
Combine:
*1 C. Black and Green Grapes, washed and soaked in Apple Cider-Water, and picked off the stems (fussy, but worth it)
*Ripe, even mooshy, Blackberries
*Cored and cut up 1 - 2 Apples (your choice)
*1 - 3 C. Coconut Milk (the drinkable stuff)
NOTES:
I am careful to use organically-grown fruit just to cut down on the unnecessary toxins, and to amp up the flavour (I swear that organic produce tastes like "real fruit")

The blue grapes are very beautiful on the vine, etc., but they don't have a great flavour-- probably made just to make wine. They also have seeds in them, which make a high speed blender a great tool and the seeds are good to consume this way.

The seedless green grapes are extremely flavourful and sweet.

The blackberries are from a cultivated, thornless variety and are sweet and very local-- our backyard. One or two bushes keeps us in frozen berries for a long while. Anthony William, the Medical Medium, says that wild blueberries are the bomb, but if you can not get them, don't rely on cultivated blueberries-- use cultivated blackberries instead!

My husband likes his smoothies a little sweeter than I like mine and adds in honey or stevia, and he often adds in superfoods (as I mention in other recipes on this site).

Even if you don't have grapes or blackberries, I know that you have some berries or other fruits that grow locally for you... use them in smoothies whenever there is an abundance of them... locally grown fruits and berries have the advantage of being fresher at the time of consumption if they are eaten at harvest time, and that means more nutrients are retained. Enjoy!

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points. Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We get a small commission for referrals-- no further fees to you. Thank you for your support!

Avocado Smoothies

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 07:05:00 +0000

Today I thought I would try an avo smoothie since we have a few of those little green eggs in our pantry... Avocado makes smoothies sooooooooo smooth (as in silky smooth and thick) and have healthy belly-fat-fighting properties. When I tried to get at the recipes, I got locked into either abandoning what looked like a pile of fantastic recipes OR signing up for a newsletter that I don't want... because down came a pop-over or pop-up with NO way to exit or get at the recipes. Grrr.... Ah well, life is too short to go on and on about that.

Here is a sample recipe, with adjustments of my own (like, who needs ice cubes when you can use frozen fruit instead? and out with extra sweeteners and dairy, wherever possible):

AVO-PEAR SMOOTHIE
1 large pear, chopped
1/2 cup frozen green grapes
1/4 avocado
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Cold Water to level wanted
**Spin all the above up in your Vitamix! (serves 1 or 2)

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points.

Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We recieve a small commission for referrals if you purchase using the link above, but you are not charged extra. Thank you for your support.

Click HERE to scroll other luscious Smoothie recipes containing Avocado

Fresh Green Glorious Aloha Smoothie -

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 18:29:00 +0000

This is such a refreshing morning smoothie-- can just feel the chlorophyll pulsing through my system!

This is one of those days when all the work in the garden -- soil amendment, weeding, seeding, watering etc-- seems like it was all worth it! The sky is robin's egg blue, the sun is dazzling, and there is an abundance of fresh greens for the smoothies! There is really nothing like the HUNDRED STEP DIET (that is, eating right out of your own garden). No fruit or berries yet, but I have a freezer with frozen fruit in it (so refreshing), bananas and apples! Let's go:

INGREDIENTS:

Put the following together in a Vitamix Carafe (or other blender):

2 + handfuls of FRESH GREENS (I used Cilantro, Chard and a Lettuce leaf)
1 C. Frozen Pineapple (or fresh)
1 Banana (chunks)
1 Apple (chopped with core and stems removed, but skin intact)
Filtered Water to make 1 + Quarts/ Litres

Whirl up! Simple as that...

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points.

Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We recieve a small commission for referrals if you purchase using the link above, but you are not charged extra. Thank you for your support.

Raspberry-Orange-Avo Chiffon Green Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (Cynthia Zirkwitz) — Fri, 13 Feb 2015 14:00:00 +0000

To me, this is the most delightful of smoothies and I will sip it with my Sweetie!!

Put the following in your Blender Carafe:

1/2 Avocado, flesh only
1-2 C. Frozen Raspberries
1 Sweet Orange, seedless, peeled
1 Handful of Fresh Parsley Tops
1 pkt. Stevia or other sweetener (optional)
Filtered Water (as much as you want, usually 1-3 C.)
Spin up in the blender and enjoy!

Click HERE to scroll other luscious Smoothie recipes containing Avocado

What is the best smoothie blender to purchase? The Vitamix models offer the most convenient cleaning with their self-cleaning feature, while the Hamilton Beach and Ninja options provide excellent dishwasher-safe convenience at more affordable price points.

Shop for the best deals HERE.

**SmoothieMoves is an Amazon affiliate. We recieve a small commission for referrals if you purchase using the link above, but you are not charged extra. Thank you for your support.