Three Ingredients for a Healthier Smoothie to Help Fight Those Flu Germs!

I've been battling a cold this week, and as always, I up my dosage of Juice Plus to ward it off quickly.  I've also been making smoothies every morning for breakfast.  Here are a few things I like to add to my smoothies to up the nutrition content and help ward off the virus:

• Cucumber: One of the most alkaline foods you can eat.  Amazingly, cucumber is 95% water!  Not surprisingly, the American diet tips to the acidic side of the pH scale.  Here's the great news: Diseases CANNOT thrive in an alkaline body!  So when you're sick, load up on these foods! Cucumber adds a delicious, refreshing taste to a smoothie.  A handful of spinach would be another great alkalizing option.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Look no further.  The cure-all.  From aches and pains to colds and flu to cancer and diabetes to weight loss and skin care.  The list goes on!  I know it has a strong taste, but just a tablespoon of this in the following recipe, and you'll never know it's there!

• Flax Seed: Some say it's one of the most powerful foods on earth.  A great source of omega-3 essential fatty acids (the good fats), lignans (antioxidant capabilities), and fiber.  Add a couple teaspoons (already ground) to your smoothie for a great nutritional boost.  Too much will make your smoothie chalky, but a couple teaspoons you'll barely notice.

The perfect smoothie base (in my opinion): vanilla almond milk, oj, and banana.  These three ingredients come together to form a beautifully smooth consistency and light sweetness. Everything else is just a matter of what I have on hand.  Measurements are approximate as I just dump everything in a blender, but here's a general guide for making 4 servings:

• 1 c. orange juice (Vitamin C, Vitamin C!!)
• 1 c. vanilla almond milk (adds a lovely bit of sweetness and creaminess)
• 1 ripe banana (Essential for the classic smoothie texture, in my opinion)
• Half a cucumber
• 2 c. frozen fruit (I keep a bag of mixed frozen fruit on hand for smoothies.  If you use fresh, be sure to add a few ice cubes.)
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 Tbsp flax seed
• 1/2 c. vanilla yogurt (I add some if I have it on hand, but it's not a big deal if I don't.  Adds an extra bit of sweetness and creaminess - plus calcium of course).
• If you want a bit more sweetness, add a drizzle of honey.

Blend everything together, and enjoy a nice cold, refreshing, nutritious smoothie this winter!

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