Mixed Berry Smoothie
Serves: 2

Natural Healers
Blueberries are absolutely delicious, and they rank the highest of any fruit for antioxidants. Just one cup delivers 14 percent of the recommended daily dose of fiber, and nearly a quarter of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Also, the little powerhouse has stress relieving properties, promotes urinary tract health, and contains beneficial soluble fiber (which helps to control blood sugar levels). Additionally, studies revealed that blueberries can help improve your memory.

Blackberries are full of phytoestrogens (which reduce PMS symptoms, food cravings, bloating, and even hot flashes). As in the case of all berries, blackberries are also a great source of ellagic acid (an antioxidant that protects skin from the dangers of ultraviolet light).

Raspberries might be a woman’s best friend. The chemical composition of the leaves has toning properties, and it helps the intestines and reproductive organs. A tea made from the leaves may relieve menstrual cramps, and possibly help the uterus regain tone after childbirth. Also, raspberries can prevent the growth of Candida albicans – the culprit in many vaginal infections.

Directions

Step 1: In a blender, combine first 6 ingredients. Puree until smooth.
Step 2: Pour smoothie into 2 glasses.
Step 3: Sprinkle each smoothie with blueberries.
Step 4: Top with a mint leaf.

Strawberry Soy Smoothie
Serves: 2

Natural Healers
Strawberries are low in calories, high in fiber, and loaded with antioxidants. To top it off, research suggests that eating eight strawberries a day can improve heart health, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, lessen the risk of cancers, and improve cognitive function.

Soy milk is high in essential fatty acids, proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients provide energy, and keep your body functioning at an optimum level. Unlike dairy milk (which can be high in saturated fat and cholesterol), soy milk contains mostly unsaturated fat and has zero cholesterol. In addition, phytoestrogen in soy can help accelerate calcium absorption, and prevent the loss of bone mass.

Directions

Step 1: In a blender, combine first 6 ingredients. Puree until smooth.
Step 2: Pour smoothie into 2 glasses.
Step 3: Top with halved strawberries. 

Banana Flaxseed Smoothie
Serves: 2

Natural Healers
Bananas provide quite a bit of iron, which is extremely helpful to those suffering from anemia. Most known for their high potassium, bananas help lower high blood pressure, relieve menstrual cramps, and minimize the risk of kidney stones. Simply rubbing the inside of a banana skin on a mosquito bite can soothe itching and irritation. And if you’re constipated, eating a banana is likely to offer some relief.

Flaxseeds are especially beneficial to women. They have high levels of lignans (plant chemicals that help safeguard against breast cancer). It’s also believed that flaxseeds improve a woman’s chances of conceiving a child. In addition, they promote normal ovulation, and have been known to protect postmenopausal women from cardiovascular disease.

Directions

Step 1: In a blender, combine first 5 ingredients. Puree until smooth.
Step 2: Pour smoothie into 2 glasses.
Step 3: Garnish with a slice of banana. 

Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended to constitute medical advice. It should not substitute the recommendations of a qualified healthcare professional. Please consult your physician for personalized medical guidance.