When was the last time you thought about your hormones? When it comes to health and well-being, hormones don’t typically take center stage. But hormones play a big role in healthy organ function, metabolism, bone health, and even our sleep (think melatonin).
Jules and I are both in our forties, and we both had babies over 40. So needless to say, hormones have been on our minds. We’re focused on up-leveling our hormone health so we can look forward to maintaining energy and strength as we age.
What do we do to keep our hormone production healthy?
We seek out nutritious foods that will help balance our hormones.
So today, we’re excited to share this delicious hormone-balancing smoothie recipe with you! It’s rich in superfoods and antioxidants our bodies need to regulate our hormones and keep us feeling our best.
If you’ve been around for a while, you probably know that hormone-balancing superfoods are a major part of our health formula. Smoothie recipes like the one below are a great way to get a high concentration of these nutrients without a lot of time and effort.
Here’s the breakdown of our chosen ingredients and their hormone-friendly benefits:
Flaxseeds: a superfood that’s rich in healthy Omega-3 fats and fiber. Healthy fats are crucial to healthy hormone production and may even help reduce hot flashes. A diet high in fiber is important for flushing excess estrogen out of the system.
Ashwagandha: a powerful adaptogen that helps to decrease cortisol levels and lower blood sugar.
Maca: an adaptogen that’s become famous for its hormone-balancing and stress reduction benefits. It’s commonly used to boost libido and fertility.
Hemp seeds: nature’s perfect protein powder! Hemp seeds are rich in healthy fats and they’re one of the few plant-based sources of complete protein.
Organic Acerola Cherry Powder: a great source of vitamin C, which helps increase progesterone levels and eliminate excess hormones from the body. Vitamin C also helps with optimal thyroid function.
Blueberries: a low glycemic fruit and an antioxidant powerhouse! When talking about hormone balance, maintaining healthy blood sugar is important. Eating fruits like berries that are naturally low in sugar and high in nutrients is a great way to get your fruit in without spiking your blood sugar.
Cauliflower: cruciferous veggies like cauliflower contain sulforaphane, which helps reduce excess estrogen. They’re also great blood sugar regulators!
Spinach: leafy greens like spinach are great for balancing blood sugar. They also contain antioxidants that help the liver detox excess hormones.
Lemon: in addition to balancing flavor and bringing brightness to your smoothie, the vitamin C in lemon juice helps your body absorb the iron in spinach (and other leafy greens).
Not only will this smoothie help you keep your hormones in check — it’ll fight brain fog and make you feel energized, clear-headed, and calm.
Give it a try and let us know how you feel! Do you have any go-to hormone-balancing recipes? Share them with us in the comments!
To happy healthy hormones,
Jo & Jules
Hormone Balancing Smoothie
Ingredients:
2 cups macadamia nut milk (or any other plant-based milk) 2 handfuls of spinach 1 cup cauliflower (raw or lightly steamed) 1 cup blueberries 1 lemon, peeled 2 TB. Conscious Cleanse Chocolate Hemp Protein Powder 2 TB. flax seeds 1 tsp. maca ½ tsp. ashwagandha root powder 1 tsp. organic acerola cherry powder 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
In a high-speed blender, combine all ingredients. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
Optional: Garnish your finished smoothie with some fresh mint.
Jo Schaalman and Jules Peláez are co-authors of two books The Conscious Cleanse: Lose Weight, Heal Your Body and Transform Your Life in 14 Days, a best-selling, step-by-step guide to help you live your most vibrant life and their brand new The Conscious Cleanse Cookbook! Together they’ve led thousands of people through their online supported cleanse through their accessible and light-hearted approach. They’ve been dubbed “the real deal” by founder and chief creative director Bobbi Brown, of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, beauty editor of the TODAY show.