Mango Banana Green Smoothie: The Ultimate 5-Minute Nutrient Powerhouse!
- Dr. Esther Levy-Bremer, DACM, L.A.c.
- Feb 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 19
Many of my patients tell me that they don't have the time to cook and eat healthily.
Making a Mango Banana Green Smoothie only takes 5 minutes and is a very simple & delicious way to nourish your body and eliminate inflammation daily.
Ingredients:
1 cup of frozen mangos
1 banana
16oz baby spinach
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 tbsp cacao powder
32oz filtered water
32oz almond milk
Step-by-step for making a Mango-Banana Green Smoothie:
Blend for 2 minutes in a high-speed blender, and enjoy every sip!
** If you do not have a high-speed blender, pre-grind the chia seeds in a spice grinder. To get the best nutritional benefits from the chia seeds (do not purchase them pre-ground because they oxidize.
Try it out, and if you need more guidance and wellness coaching, contact us to schedule an appointment today!
Nutritional Benefits from a Chinese Medical Perspective
Mangos:
Mangoes are considered to be a cooling energy source in Chinese medicine.
They are known to:
Nourish yin and promote fluid production.
Strengthen digestion and ease constipation.
They support immune function due to their high vitamin C content.
Improve skin health and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Banana:
Bananas are considered a cooling food in Chinese medicine.
They are believed to:
Moisten the intestines and alleviate constipation.
Nourish yin and generate body fluids.
Calm the mind and reduce irritability.
Baby Spinach:
Spinach is considered a cooling food in Chinese medicine.
It is thought to:
Nourish blood and yin.
Clear heat and toxins from the body.
Support digestive health.
Chia Seeds:
While not traditionally used in Chinese medicine, chia seeds can be considered neutral to slightly cooling.
They are believed to:
Nourish yin and promote fluid production.
Support digestive health due to their high fiber content.
Cacao Powder:
Cacao is considered warming in Chinese medicine.
It is thought to:
Warm the spleen and stomach.
Boost energy and qi (vital life force).
Improve blood circulation.
Water:
Water is considered neutral in Chinese medicine and is essential for:
Nourishing yin and promoting fluid balance in the body.
Supporting overall health and bodily functions.
Almond Milk:
Almond milk, while not traditional in Chinese medicine, can be considered neutral to slightly cooling.
It is believed to:
Nourish yin and promote fluid production
Support digestive health
Summary
This combination of ingredients provides a balance of cooling and warming properties, which aligns with the Chinese medicine principle of maintaining harmony in the body. The cooling properties of mango, banana, and spinach are balanced by the warming effect of cacao, while the neutral elements like water and almond milk help to harmonize the overall effect.
Nutritional Benefits from a Western Medical Perspective
Mangos
Frozen mangos are rich in nutrients and offer several health benefits:
High in vitamin C, supporting immune function and collagen production.
Good source of vitamin A, which is important for vision and skin health.
Contains fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Rich in antioxidants may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
May have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially benefiting those with inflammatory bowel disease.
Banana
Bananas are nutrient-dense fruits with numerous health benefits:
Excellent source of potassium, vital for heart health and blood pressure regulation.
Rich in vitamin B6, essential for brain health and neurotransmitter function.
Contains dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
May help improve mood due to tryptophan content, which converts to serotonin.
Provides quick energy due to its carbohydrate content.
Baby Spinach
Rich in iron, essential for oxygen transport in the body.
High in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.
Contains antioxidants, which may help protect against chronic diseases.
Chia Seeds
High in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.
Provide a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety.
Contain antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation.
Cacao Powder
Is rich in flavonoids, which may have cardiovascular benefits.
Contain antioxidants, potentially reducing oxidative stress.
Provides a source of magnesium, which is important for various bodily functions.
Water
Water is essential for overall health and:
Helps maintain proper hydration.
Supports various bodily functions, including digestion and temperature regulation.
Almond Milk
Low in calories, making it suitable for weight management.
Often fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin D.
Lactose-free, making it a good alternative for those with lactose intolerance.
Summary
This combination of ingredients provides a wide array of nutrients and potential health benefits, from supporting heart health and digestion to boosting immune function and providing antioxidants.
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