Geri Hirsch, founder of Because I'm Addicted, is a proud California girl, born and raised in L.A. After finishing business school and feeling unfulfilled at her first job, she started blogging in 2005 as a creative outlet, and she has been doing it ever since. Nowadays, she loves sharing inspiration for fashion, recipes, and a lifestyle that feels good and is full of balance (think: red wine with a side of dry brushing). You can find her and her wellness-obsessed husband in L.A. traveling, listening to old records, and planting in their organic garden. We're thrilled to have her on as a contributor for THE/THIRTY, where she'll be sharing her health and diet tips each month. In June, she's sharing her favorite superfood smoothie recipe…
This superfood, antioxidant-rich smoothie bowl is the perfect breakfast for warm summer mornings… not to mention a great Instagram shot, too. Pitaya, or dragon fruit, is similar to açai with a more mild taste and richer magenta color profile (aka the hot pink bowls you've been seeing everywhere). And to power up the bowl, it's topped with nutrient-dense superfoods like chia seeds, hemp seeds, goji berries, and bee pollen. Here are the benefits for each of the ingredients.
Chia seeds: Chia seeds are an ancient food from Central America and Mexico. These small seeds are very high in fiber, which makes them good for weight loss and weight maintenance. They are also high in healthful omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Chia seeds also have a significant amount of protein, no cholesterol, and several important minerals. They can control your blood sugar levels, prevent blood clots, reduce high blood pressure, reduce inflammation, improve your digestion, and give you energy. They're small but incredibly mighty. (You can read more about the specific beauty benefits of chia seeds here.)
Hemp seeds: Hemp seeds come from the cannabis plant, which is also the origin of marijuana. Plants that are used for hemp products contain little or none of the psychoactive compound THC (so you don't have to stress about those effects, and they are okay to consume whenever). Hemp seeds contain omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for combating heart disease. They also contain so-called "super" fatty acids called gamma-linoleic acid and stearidonic acid. These fats are good for your skin, help to increase your metabolism, lower cholesterol in your bloodstream, and decrease inflammation. Hemp seeds are also high in protein and fiber. They have been shown to improve immune system functioning, boost brain health, and regulate blood sugar. They have a mild, nutty flavor.
Goji berries: Also known as wolfberries, goji berries are tasty red berries native to Asia and have been used there for thousands of years. They are packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and are an excellent plant-based source of protein. They are perfect for vegetarians and vegans. They can help protect you from heart disease and improve your eye health. A class of oils called sesquiterpenoids that are found in goji berries boost the production of human growth hormone, which produces anti-aging effects. Other components of the fruit can improve the functioning of your immune system and even help patients with serious autoimmune disorders.
Bee pollen: On top of adding protein and energy, I've read bee pollen has benefits like preventing the cold and flu, helping with cravings, improving vitality and endurance, regulating intestines, reducing inflammation, and helping relieve stress.
Besides these superfoods, you can add flaxseed, spirulina, maca, cacao, acai, coconut oil, etc., for a beautiful, delicious, and seriously nutritious breakfast.
Here's how to make a superfood smoothie bowl yourself.
Ingredients:
2 bananas
1 frozen pack of dragon fruit
1/2 cup frozen berry blend (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
1 cup baby spinach
1 cup almond milk
A handful of superfoods of your choice, such as chia seeds, hemp seeds, goji berries, bee pollen, etc.
Additional (but optional) toppings: granola, fresh fruit, edible flowers
Directions:
The key to a smoothie bowl is extra banana; it thickens the consistency, which allows the toppings to stay afloat. Blend all ingredients except for your superfoods until smooth.
Pour the smoothie mixture into a bowl, decorate with your favorite superfoods and edible flowers, and enjoy.
Click here for more smoothie recipes for every health concern.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
