Recipe: Pineapple pick me up

I love spirulina, but not because of the way it tastes! I find that this incredible superfood is best enjoyed hidden amongst other foods! It is, however a fantastic addition to any diet, whether vegan or not, as it is amazingly high in B12, iron and omega 3; not to mention protein. It is a nutrient powerhouse, especially for vegans who can struggle to get these nutrients purely from food. Spirulina is often referred to as the most nutritious food on the planet and has been used by NASA for it’s astronauts whilst in space!

Spirulina is a blue-green microalgae, usually grown in fresh water lakes and is high in phycocyanin, known for its detoxifying, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticancer, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective and immune boosting properties! Phew!

This smoothie makes a highly nutritious and surprisingly filling snack; it’s light, satisfying and refreshing and perfect for the warmer months.

I also love this recipe as a great post gym, workout or sauna drink, as the coconut water is naturally high in electrolytes and therefore helps to rebalance minerals after excessive perspiration. The spirulina and wheatgrass provide valuable antioxidants to help fight the free radicals generated by exercise, and along with the protein, help with muscle repair. With the pineapple ,which is high in bromelain (a natural anti-inflammatory compound), it’s the perfect post exercise elixir.

You can add an optional pinch of wheatgrass powder to make this an even more detoxifying and powerful drink.

Ingredients - Serves 1:

250ml Raw, Pink Coconut Water (my favourite is rebel kitchen coconut water)

1/4 of 1 Large Fresh Pineapple - chopped into cubes (you can freeze the remaining pineapple once chopped to use for next time)

1 Tsp Spirulina Powder or Granules

1 Tsp Wheatgrass juice powder (optional)

Method:

Add all ingredients to a blender with a little ice, blend until smooth and serve immediately!