Making a fresh fruit smoothie loaded with omega 3′s, protein, probiotics, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties is an easy way to start your day off right. It takes 5 minutes to make and everyone can enjoy a glass or two even when in a hurry. Plus, you will love the taste. My daughter asked for five, yes I said 5, refills. Next time I will triple the ingredients.

Coconut water is packed with essential electrolytes and is known as nature’s own sports drink. You will feel refreshed after enjoying a glass. It is great for the skin too.

I use fresh young coconuts because they taste so much better and the water has not been stored in aluminum lined containers. Click here to learn how to cut one open. If you cannot find fresh coconuts, use Vita Coco or another easy to open container.

I would put the fruit in the freezer for a cool smoothie. It tastes much better cold. Add a little ice if you have fresh fruit.

You can even place all the fruit in a Pyrex dish or BPA free plastic bag the night before so all you need to do is add the greek yogurt, flax meal, and coconut water in the morning.

Directions

1) Use ORGANIC fruit and yogurt. Add 1 very ripe banana (preferably frozen for the smooth milkshake like texture) , 2 dates,  3/4 cup coconut water, 1 cup pineapple chunks, 1 cup mango chunks, 1/2 cup cherries, 1 tablespoon ground flax meal and 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, plain or vanilla flavored. Blend well. Pour into 2 tall glasses and serve cold.

This recipe was adapted from one I found in a Bon Appetit magazine titled Fruit Boost by Janet Taylor McCracken. It really does give you a boost with the probiotics, omega 3′s, and antioxidants. I hope you enjoy it!

How to Create Your Own Smoothie

If you do not have coconut water, add pineapple or orange juice. You can also change this recipe up with different berries such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries or raspberries. Use what you have on hand or can find at the store.

Make sure you add the banana for texture (and potassium) and dates for sweetness. Buy dates that are already pitted! You do not want a pit ground up in the smoothie. Honey can be a sweeter too.

Why you Want to Drink This!

• Cherries are rich in potassium, anthocyanins, quercetin, and Vitamin C. Tart cherries contain melatonin and this hormone acts as a sleep aid and is easily absorbed in the body. Cherries may work as well as melatonin supplements if you drink a glass in the morning and evening. These berries also regulate blood pressure due to the potassium and quercetin antioxidant. Cherries are known to reduce gout and inflammation in the body. Studies have shown eating tart cherries for 7 days before a race can reduce muscle soreness. The anthocyanins which make the cherries a deep red color may fight and prevent cancer so enjoy the sweet juicy ones. And if you are looking to trim your waistline, eat the tart cherries because the anthocyanins may increase your metabolism and decrease fat storage. read more 
• Pineapples are rich in Vitamin C, manganese, fiber, folic acid, and Vitamin B6, B1 and copper. Bromelain in the core of the fruit fights inflammation and improves digestion. Pineapples can give you that energy boost due to the manganese and B1 vitamin. read more 
• Mangos are an excellent source for Vitamin A, beta-carotene, potassium, alpha-carotene, Vitamin C, Vitamin B-6, and Vitamin E. Studies are showing mangos may protect against colon, breast, and prostate cancers. Vitamin C removes harmful free radicals from the body, potassium reduces blood pressure, and Vitamin A improves the skin and mucus membranes. read more
• Greek yogurt adds protein, potassium, calcium, and vitamin D as well as much needed probiotics.
• Coconut replenishes your electrolytes and is rich in minerals, vitamin C, B complex vitamins, bioactive enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants. read more