In a baking mood, but want to avoid a stifling apartment? Solution: skip the oven and make our blueberry muffin smoothie bowl. With ingredients including frozen banana, ice cubes, and our cold blueberry kefir, you’re sure to stay cool in the summer heat.
Blueberry Benefits!
According to the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, blueberries are high in many essential vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Manganese
- Fiber
Not surprisingly, blueberries get their name from their deeply pigmented blue color- an indication that they’re full of antioxidants, specifically anthocyanins. Antioxidants fight carcinogenic free radicals, which can cause cell degeneration, DNA damage and cancer.
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Actually Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school age years. In addition, kefir made from whole fat milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = a Healthy You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including both your immune and digestive system.
Servings: 1 - 2Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Natural Kefir Cup
- 1/2 cup Blueberry Lowfat Kefir
- 1/2 banana, frozen
- 1/2 cup blueberries, frozen
- 1/4 tsp lemon, zest
- 1/4 cup gluten-free oats, raw
- 1/2 cup Ice cubes
Directions
- Place all ingredients into a high-powered blender. Blend on high until smooth, or until desired consistency is reached.